Network & Systems
Network Overview
ECN operates a converged next generation network over a number of mediums including copper, fibre and microwave. ECN has opted not to build its own network, but rather to lease network capacity from the incumbent operators. ECN’s focus is on providing leading-edge services via its IP-based NGN. The objective being to provide our customers with a next-generation “one network many services approach” as opposed to a legacy TDM “one network one service” design.
Switching Network
ECN has bilateral interconnect agreements in place with Telkom, Vodacom, MTN and Cell C. Telkom has divided South Africa into seven interconnection zones in which new entrants may interconnect. ECN has connected to Telkom’s points of interconnect in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth.
Core / Access Network
ECN’s core national network comprises of fibre that is entirely leased from multiple providers, typically on five year contracts. ECN foresees a sharp increase in the availability of dark fibre in South Africa and believes that new technologies such as DWDM will significantly increase capacity leading to a decline in prices over the next few years. ECN perceives no direct benefit from owning dark fibre as it can add new capacity as and when demand requires and it does not have to maintain the physical network layer, thus keeping operating expenses to a minimum. ECN’s current access network comprises of copper wire, metro-Ethernet, microwave and WiMAX circuits leased primarily from Telkom, Neotel, Sentech and Vodacom Business, typically on one to three year contracts.
