DataNet Africa and ADVA Optical Networking Build First MEF-Certified Carrier Ethernet Service in East Africa

ADVA Optical Networking announced today that its ADVA FSP 150 has played a key role in DataNet Africa's MEF CE 2.0 E-Access certification. The accreditation makes DataNet Africa the first operator in the region to provide wholesale MEF-certified Ethernet access circuits. The network is built on the ADVA FSP 150, an intelligent Ethernet access solution. DataNet Africa selected the product family for its ability to deliver ubiquitous Ethernet services and for its proven carrier-class performance. ADVA Optical Networking’s technology also enables DataNet Africa to prepare for applications based on software-defined networking (SDN) and network functions virtualization (NFV), which will help East African businesses to further streamline operational costs and pursue new revenue streams.

“Many businesses in this part of the world are at a crucial stage in their development. To achieve their potential, they need more than basic internet access over point-to-point private lines or local loops. What the East African market requires is assured, cost-effective data transport,” said Ishkhan Martirosyan, CTO, DataNet Africa. “We’re proud to be the first wholesale provider in the region to deliver a MEF CE 2.0 E-Access-certified networking platform. With next-generation connectivity services, businesses in East Africa will now have a significant competitive edge. What’s more, our infrastructure will soon be ready for applications powered by SDN and NFV. Our customers will then be able to further reduce costs while increasing agility and speed when it comes to deploying new services.”

DataNet Africa’s certified Ethernet access circuits, interconnect links and external network-to-network interfaces will provide a major boost for regional and international service providers looking to expand in East Africa. The MEF-compliant transport solution will also deliver assured and secure Carrier Ethernet services for organizations in all sectors from healthcare to finance to government. DataNet Africa’s next stage of development will be utilizing the edge virtualization capabilities of the ADVA FSP 150 product range, which will enable it to offer advanced SDN and NFV applications to the East African market.

“East Africa is brimming with potential, and businesses in the region have a huge amount of drive and creativity. DataNet Africa can now provide them with the world-class end-to-end connectivity they need to progress to the next level,” commented Günter Landers, sales director, Africa, ADVA Optical Networking. “Securing MEF CE 2.0 certification means that DataNet Africa’s network has achieved the gold standard for connectivity services. It’s a guarantee for carriers and businesses that they can rely on the highest possible industry standards. Our FSP 150 technology provides carrier-class assurance, enabling DataNet Africa’s service provider customers the opportunity to offer profitable and differentiated Ethernet services.”