Openreach has selected Nokia to build its One Network Platform, an open-access fiber network designed to deliver faster broadband to millions of UK homes and businesses. This collaboration leverages Nokia’s Altiplano and NSP network domain controllers, which will simplify network operations, reduce complexity, and improve scalability. Openreach aims to expand its network from 17 million connected premises today to 25 million by the end of 2026, responding to rising demands for high-speed connectivity across the UK, including rural and hard-to-reach areas.
The One Network Platform, powered by Nokia technology, introduces a modular data center architecture, cutting power and space requirements by over 50% at Ethernet access exchange sites. Nokia’s domain controllers will enable Openreach to automate fiber services over Point-to-Point, GPON, and XGS PON technologies while reducing operational support system (OSS) complexity by 85%. This infrastructure will ensure service providers can deliver ultrafast broadband with greater efficiency and flexibility.
Key Highlights of the Partnership:
• Massive Network Expansion: Openreach aims to grow its fiber coverage from 17 million to 25 million UK premises by 2026.
• Simplified Operations: Nokia’s Altiplano and NSP controllers enable intent-based automation, reducing OSS complexity by 85%.
• Energy & Space Efficiency: The modular architecture reduces power and space usage by over 50% at Ethernet access exchange sites.
• Rural Connectivity Focus: The open wholesale network serves urban centers, towns, and rural areas, connecting 300 communication service providers.
• Enhanced Scalability: Openreach can offer ultrafast full fiber services with reduced operational overhead and increased performance insights through streaming telemetry.
Trevor Linney, Director of Network Technology at Openreach, said: “This is the next step in our plans to build a future-proof, multi-service, one network platform – that supports both full FTTP and future Ethernet products. Introducing Nokia’s Altiplano and NSP network domain controllers and 7250 IXR data center routers will boost automation, network visibility and control, and product flexibility for our Communication Provider customers and their end-user customers. Ultimately, this is about making our network easier to manage, more efficient and reliable, for example, through quicker identification of faults via automation, and helping to cut operational costs.”
Geert Heyninck, General Manager of Broadband Networks at Nokia, said: “Open-access networks are the future of broadband, and we’re proud to support Openreach in bringing fiber connectivity to millions across the UK. Meeting growing broadband demands requires scalability and flexibility, which is where the intent-based design of our solution really shines. We are motivated to help Openreach automate operations, optimize resources and create a robust, future-ready network that serves both urban and rural communities.”
