* N+I’s showcase network, InteropNet, is back
NetWorld+Interop 2003 is just around the corner, and that means the creation of the InteropNet is at hand.
The InteropNet Event Network is being built by 14 networking vendors that last week staged the net at a warehouse in Belmont, Calif., as they always do. The vendors include:
* 3M Volition, for cabling.
* Fluke Networks, for testing and troubleshooting.
* APC, for power.
* Spirent Communications, for performance analysis.
* Computer Associates, for network management.
* HP, for servers and workstations.
* Avaya, for voice over IP.
* Internet Security Systems, for intrusion protection.
* NetScreen, firewall.
* Aruba, wireless.
* Packet Design, IP route Analytics.
* AirMagnet, wireless LAN monitoring.
* OptiGate Networks, Internet service.
* Sockeye Networks, route optimization.
The “premier” network hardware provider for the event is Extreme Networks.
Some of the highlights of this year’s network include 10 Gigabit Ethernet, wireless LANs, and VoIP. The network will consist of several thousand nodes and devices ranging from wireless LAN gear to an MPLS backbone.
Sometimes lessons can be gleaned from the construction of the network, which organizers will point out is the largest temporary network in the world.
If you are going to N+I in Las Vegas, you can get a tour of the network from one of the engineers who built it. More information is available at: https://www.interop.com/interopnet/enet/
