Whitepaper: Mission-critical communications networks for railway operators

Learn how an IP/MPLS network assures mission-critical delivery of operational and corporate voice, data, and video services while continuing to support existing applications and legacy systems.

Railway operators should ensure that their communications network transformation includes an IP/MPLS network, as only IP/MPLS can provide the reliability that is needed for mission-critical services. The Nokia IP/MPLS communications network can help a railway operator extend and enhance its network with new technologies like IP, MPLS, and Ethernet while fully supporting existing TDM applications. These new technologies will enable the railway operator to optimize its network flexibility and management in order to reduce both CAPEX and OPEX without jeopardizing safety, security or reliability. A service-aware IP/ MPLS network provides the benefit of supporting converged voice, data and video applications that can be managed through configurable QoS levels. The Nokia IP/MPLS product portfolio leads the industry in reliability and OAM tools, key enablers for meeting the “always-on” requirement for mission-critical railway operations. The Nokia IP/MPLS network can help address railway communications challenges with:

• High network availability
• Network virtualization
• QoS guaranteed for priority traffic
• Support for existing mission-critical TDM services and new IP and Ethernet applications
• Flexible synchronization options
• Reduced operating and maintenance costs
• Improved passenger safety through effective, always-on communications
• Readiness for LTE deployment