Nokia and ZCorum have created a DOCSIS Provisioning Adapter (DPA) application to help cable operators simplify their transition to fiber networks.
The DPA lets operators continue to use their existing DOCSIS-based provisioning systems to provision Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) and subscriber services on ITU-standard Passive Optical Networks (PON). As more cable operators upgrade to fiber for greater performance, scalability, and reliability, this solution offers a practical migration path that preserves prior investments while enabling next-generation services.
Many Multiple System Operators (MSOs) ultimately adopt a next-generation fiber management platform, but the DPA provides a software-based, incremental approach for those who prefer to evolve from their existing DOCSIS-based Operations Support Systems (OSS). This approach reduces the need for an immediate, full-system replacement, spreading costs over time and shortening time-to-market for new fiber services.
Geert Heyninck, VP and GM Broadband Networks at Nokia, said the company’s leadership in PON technology positions it well to support cable operators moving to newer networks and delivering superior service to subscribers.
He added that the DPA application being developed with OSS specialist ZCorum will provide customers with a straightforward way to ease the transition to FTTH and strengthen their competitive position.
The Nokia DPA operates as an interworking function — a translation layer that connects DOCSIS-based management systems with Nokia’s Altiplano Access Controller. Altiplano is an open, programmable platform offering comprehensive network management, automation, and software-defined networking (SDN) controls for Nokia’s Lightspan PON solutions.
Julie Compann, President and CEO of ZCorum, noted that ZCorum has supported DOCSIS and fiber operators since both technologies emerged, making DPA a natural extension of the company’s offerings.
She explained that while cable operators see the clear advantages of migrating to fiber, they also retain significant DOCSIS infrastructure investments. The DPA enables targeted fiber rollouts without requiring an immediate second provisioning system, letting operators prioritize fiber deployment where it delivers the most value. ZCorum is working with Nokia to make that strategy practical for operators.
Nokia expects the DPA application to be ready for lab trials by the end of 2024. When broadly released, the DPA will be available through the Altiplano Marketplace.
The Altiplano Marketplace gives operators access to a catalog of automation tools and network analytics to improve broadband performance. Nokia’s Altiplano Access Controller also exposes open APIs and a Software Development Kit (SDK) for operators and third-party developers like ZCorum to build value-added applications.
Jeff Heynen, Vice President at Dell’Oro Group, commented that while operators are upgrading networks in different ways, nearly all are deploying PON-based FTTH in greenfield areas and many are overbuilding legacy networks with PON or selectively integrating it into existing HFC deployments.
He observed that MSOs will welcome any tool that simplifies, speeds, and reduces the cost of PON deployment, and said Nokia’s DPA addresses those needs.
The Nokia–ZCorum partnership aims to simplify the fiber migration process for cable operators. As demand for high-speed, reliable broadband grows, tools like the DPA application will be important for enabling efficient, cost-effective FTTH rollouts.
(Photo by Pawel Czerwinski)
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