Connecting intelligence: Illuminet, Cisco complete SS7 interoperability tests

Illuminet and Cisco Systems have finalized their SS7 interoperability testing and are offering an SS7 internetworking solution. Carriers can now use Cisco's SC2200 signaling controller to connect to Illuminet's SS7 network.

The SC2200 offloads data created from Internet access requests from voice switches. It works with Cisco AS5800, AS5300, AS5200 or Access Path access servers to create an Internet access point of presence that emulates a switch in the telephone network. This peer-level POP then can be connected to Illuminet's nationwide SS7 network.

Cisco's target market includes just about any carrier looking for options to decrease voice congestion. "By working with Illuminet's service and products, competitive carriers can quickly deploy a wholesale dial solution and connect to a local interconnect," said David LaPier, product manager for the SC2200.

The Cisco/Illuminet option also has cost advantages, LaPier said. It's designed to help carriers reduce capital investment and lower operations costs, he added.

Currently, Cisco is the only network equipment provider that has conducted interoperability tests with Illuminet, although others may follow. "We're willing to work with anyone and any devices from an [Internet protocol] perspective," said Lori Mullane, business development manager for Illuminet.

Illuminet and Cisco interoperability tests included SS7 link control and Level 2 and Level 3 network testing for Cisco's SC2200 SS7-IP gateway.

For now, Mullane expects that Illuminet's network traffic growth will be incremental; however it's destined to grow as more carriers build IP infrastructures. Mullane sees carriers ramping up their IP infrastructure during the next seven years, and within 15 years they will have moved to IP. "[SS7 interconnection] is not a phenomenal opportunity for 1999," she said. "It's more of a long-range development plan."