Network design and scalability testing is crucial to keeping the network infrastructure tuned to the demands of today's fast-paced and ever-changing business environment. A stable, high-performance network infrastructure is the result of careful planning, design, and implementation. However, the work does not stop once the network is operational. Changing business applications require new network features, making software and hardware upgrades inevitable. To mitigate the risk associated with altering the production network, service providers need to test the network infrastructure before introducing changes into production.

Although the benefits of proactive testing are well known, most network planning and support organizations do not actively and methodically test their network components prior to implementation. Often, engineering resources are too taxed from dealing with reactive issues to maintain test equipment or develop effective test strategies. With the need to maintain a business critical corporate network as their top priority, managers are forced to look outside their own staff for effective testing.

Cisco IP NGN Expertise Center provides Lab Services in two formats. One is the short-term Transactional Service, ideally suited for proof-of-concept Testing or evaluation testing. A typical duration is eight weeks.

The other Lab Service, System Integration for Validation and Verification of service provider network design, is typically associated with a technology migration, integration, or OSS engagement. More complex, longer in duration, and more comprehensive than Transaction Services, these testing services are also managed with a more structured methodology, using ISO-9000 certified procedures and facilities. Managed through Program Central and well as Lab Central with standard procedures, tools, and practices, these services offer the risk mitigation services you need when your business depends on your network.

With worldwide interconnected labs, standardized tools, methods and highly skilled professional staff, the IP NGN Expertise Center is your partner on your IP NGN journey.