6/12/2006 -- At last week's GLOBALCOMM 2006 conference, Cisco Systems Inc. announced new IP NGN capabilities for its 7600 Series Router portfolio.

Cisco's IP NGN refresh introduces features such as multicast connection admission control (CAC), a video/IPTV quality-monitoring module, new Ethernet OA&M capabilities for improved service assurance, and an integrated mesh Wireless Service Module (WiSM) for metro WiFi mesh network aggregation.

Analysts say Cisco's 7600 Series refresh is a well-timed, if not exactly overdue, milestone. "Cisco is addressing the evolving needs of its service provider customers by adding features designed to support service providers in the deployment of advanced Ethernet-based solutions," comments Glen Hunt, a senior analyst for carrier infrastructure with Current Analysis.

Of course, you can lead a service provider to next-gen technology, but you can't make it consume it. But Hunt points out that at least two of Cisco's service provider customers -- Swisscom and the Tata Group -- have already endorsed the new multicast CAC and video monitoring features.

"[T]he new features improve the 7600's ability to provide a resilient infrastructure to support services such as IPTV, premium Ethernet business offerings, and other new services," he indicates. "As IP NGN service deployments move into the mainstream, service providers need the ability to control service admission dynamically, monitor traffic, and troubleshoot service delivery problems easily. The new Wireless Service Module shows leadership in support of the emerging WiFi aggregation service." Hunt is generally positive on Cisco's move, noting that the new capabilities demonstrate a maturation in the depth and breadth of Cisco's 7600-based Ethernet solutions. "By addressing the issues associated with mass deployment, through experience gained in early adopter deployments, the 7600 retains its strong market presence. The Wireless Service Module also provides a secure solution for emerging meshed WiFi aggregation." -Stephen Swoyer