Chapter 3 Cisco SCE8000 Topology and Topology-Related Parameters

Topology Considerations

Will the system be used solely to monitor traffic flow, with report functionality only, or will it be used for traffic flow control, with enforcement as well as report functionality?

Monitoring and Control — The Cisco SCE8000 monitors and controls traffic flow. Decisions are enforced by the Cisco SCE8000 depending on the results of the monitoring functions of the Cisco SCE8000 and the configuration of the Service Control Application for Broadband or Mobile solution.

In order to perform control functions, the Cisco SCE8000 must be physically installed as an inline installation.

Monitoring only — The Cisco SCE8000 monitors traffic flow, but cannot control it.

Either an inline installation or an optical splitter or port SPAN installation may be used for monitoring only.

Size

A Cisco SCE8000 deployment can range from a single 10GBE link to multiple platforms in a MGSCP topology.

A complete discussion on sizing the system is beyond the scope of this document. Information regarding the number of Cisco SCE8000 platforms required is related to the design considerations 'per link' (topology and redundancy factors) rather than to overall sizing of the system.

Redundancy

Must the system be designed to guarantee uninterrupted Cisco SCE8000 functionality? If so, there must be a backup Cisco SCE8000 platform (or a backup for each platform in an MGSCP topology) to assume operation in case of failure of the primary device.

A backup SCE platform is connected in a cascade configuration with the primary SCE platform so that, although all processing is performed only in the active Cisco SCE8000, the standby Cisco SCE8000 is constantly updated with all the necessary information so that it can instantly take over processing the traffic on the data links should the active Cisco SCE8000 fail.

Note that an MGSCP topology with multiple Cisco SCE8000 platforms provides more sophisticated redundancy options, but the basic decision on each link is the same: does it require a standby SCE platform or not?

Link continuity

How should the Cisco SCE8000 respond to platform failure with regard to link continuity? Should traffic flow continue even though the unit is not operating, or be halted until the platform is repaired/replaced?

If link continuity is a high priority, an external optical bypass module can be installed on the link. (See Link Continuity, page 3-9and The Cisco SCE8000 Optical Bypass, page 2-8.)

Note In cascade configuration, installation of an external optical bypass module is required.

These issues determine two important aspects of system deployment and configuration:

Physical topology of the system — The actual physical placement and connection of the Cisco SCE8000 platform or platforms in the system.

Topology-related configuration parameters — The correct values for each parameter must be ascertained before configuring the system to make sure that the system will function in the desired manner.

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Cisco Systems SCE8000 manual Size, Redundancy, Link continuity

SCE8000 specifications

Cisco Systems SCE8000 is an advanced service control edge solution designed to enhance the management and performance of service provider networks. Targeted at carriers and large enterprises, the SCE8000 is characterized by its capacity to efficiently handle traffic management, quality of service (QoS), and policy enforcement across various services including voice, video, and data.

One of the main features of the SCE8000 is its scalability. The platform supports a high-density architecture, allowing service providers to seamlessly expand their networks to accommodate growing traffic demands. This scalability is complemented by an impressive throughput, which enables the handling of millions of concurrent sessions, making it ideal for environments with significant user activity.

The SCE8000 employs advanced traffic management capabilities, leveraging deep packet inspection (DPI) technology. This allows for granular visibility into network traffic, enabling service providers to make informed decisions about resource allocation and policy application. Additionally, the device supports multiple protocol analysis, ensuring compatibility across various network services and enhancing overall efficiency.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another critical characteristic of the SCE8000. The platform provides sophisticated mechanisms to prioritize traffic, thereby ensuring that delay-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video streaming receive the necessary bandwidth. This capability is enhanced by Cisco's intelligent traffic shaping and congestion management features, which work together to optimize the user experience even in congested network conditions.

The SCE8000 also integrates robust security features, including session initiation protocol (SIP) security, to protect against malicious attacks and maintain service integrity. This is particularly important in today's cyber landscape where service providers must safeguard their infrastructure from various threats.

Automation and programmability are essential characteristics of the SCE8000, enabling operators to implement policies quickly and efficiently. This feature allows for dynamic scaling and rapid deployment of new services, significantly reducing the time to market for new offerings.

In conclusion, Cisco Systems SCE8000 stands out as a powerful platform for managing service provider networks. With its high scalability, advanced traffic management, quality of service assurance, robust security features, and automation capabilities, the SCE8000 enables service providers to deliver a superior customer experience while optimizing their operational efficiency. This makes it an invaluable asset for any organization looking to enhance its network performance and service delivery.