Tata Communications launched its next-generation Ethernet network in 24 nodes around the world, marking the industry’s first use of 802.1ah Provider Backbone Bridging (PBB) on a global scale.

Tata Communications’ new Ethernet network core carries only Ethernet traffic, unlike competing operators who are building converged MPLS and VPLS-based networks to carry a mixture of private, public IP traffic and Ethernet services. As a result, Tata Communications can provide a wide range of unique Ethernet services with native Ethernet Operations Administration and Maintenance (OAM) management throughout.

In the coming months, Tata Communications will be launching an enhanced multipoint service, burstability with usage-based billing and will further develop its Dedicated Ethernet Service to scale from 1,000 – 10,000 Meg in 500 Meg increments. The company is also now able to ensure higher network quality as a result of being able to monitor each and every customer and class of service, independently.

“We are experiencing a phenomenal increase in demand for Ethernet services and our investment in Cisco’s advanced technology could not be more timely. Tata Communications’ move towards the PBB technology will strengthen its existing position as a global leader in Ethernet. This technology enables us to provide a cutting-edge and differentiated service portfolio to the global market-place, ensuring unparalleled capacity, product innovation and service quality excellence in the Ethernet space,” said Vinod Kumar, President and Chief Operating Officer, Tata Communications.

Tata Communications’ Global Ethernet Services span more than 50 locations in North America, Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, as well as more than 120 cities across India and four cities in China. Further expansion is planned in the coming months to include more locations in Africa, Europe and the Middle East.