Intel recently unveiled its new Intel Xeon Scalable Processors that enable communications service providers to accelerate the transformation of fixed-function, purpose-built networks into flexible, software-defined networks. These networks will be capable of delivering ultra-low latency, high data capacity and lightning fast speeds – ushering in the 5G era with billons of devices connected to the cloud and life-changing experiences such as autonomous driving.
AT&T is collaborating with Intel to transform its network and advance the progress of 5G. John Donovan, chief strategy officer and group president of AT&T Technology and Operations, appeared on stage at the Intel Xeon Scalable Processor launch event with Navin Shenoy, executive vice president and general manager of Intel’s Data Center Group, to discuss AT&T’s involvement in the Intel Xeon Scalable processor early access program.
Donovan shared that AT&Twas able to get production traffic running on servers using the new processors in weeks, and has seen a 30 percent performance improvement over its current install base since deploying the Intel Xeon Scalable platform in March. AT&T has also seen a 25 percent reduction in the number of servers needed per cluster, with larger data throughput – improving overall total cost of ownership. Further, Donovan explained AT&T’s relationship with Intel lets AT&T build, fine-tune and accelerate time to market with its software-centric, cloudified solutions, like AT&T’s FlexWare. This all is helping AT&T achieve its goal of virtualizing 75 percent of its network by 2020; AT&T expects to reach 55 percent by the end of this year.
Donovan further explained that this progress represents the type of improvements needed for AT&T to stay ahead of surging demand for data capacity, rapidly add new services and ready its network for 5G.
