Network Virtualization at the forefront of telecom industry dynamics: stakes and opportunities.

With the advent of the new IT convergence, communication service providers (CSPs) and their suppliers can accelerate their performance in terms of efficiency, transparence, agility, and flexibility. They can also reduce their operational costs, can improve their revenue, predict their growth, and avoid the potholes and more.

It is clear that, many existing CSP network elements, such as service provider routers, Ethernet switches, and packet optical switches, are transitioning to become software-enabled and programmable with open, interfaces.

This means, network virtualization strategies are reshaping the telecommunications ecosystem.

According to new research from International Data Corporation (IDC), Communication service providers and their suppliers are embracing the promise and opportunities related to network virtualization approaches, such as software-defined networks (SDNs) and network functions virtualization (NFV).

"Despite budget concerns and questions about the ability to execute on the network virtualization vision, CSPs, telecom vendors, and partners are all embracing potential opportunities," said Elisabeth Rainge, Research Vice President, Communications Service Provider Operations.