Juniper Networks, Inc. announced that its Service Deployment System (SDX-300) supports CableLabs new PacketCable Multimedia Web Services Interface (WSI) specification. The WSI provides an open interface between application servers and PacketCable Multimedia-compliant application managers, enabling applications to dynamically request resources on a cable providers' network. By tightly integrating the applications with the IP networks that support them, cable operators can create a range of new, customizable services that increase average revenue per user and increase customer loyalty.

Support for the Web Services Interface is another step in Juniper's Open IPTV and Multiplay Initiative, an ongoing program designed to enable providers to more rapidly and cost-effectively deploy innovative service offerings using open, flexible and best-of-breed networks. The Web Services Interface provides a standards-based mechanism for extending the concepts outlined in the Open IPTV and Multiplay Initiative to multi-vendor cable networks, and enables application developers to simply and efficiently create new applications without requiring in-depth knowledge of cable network technology.

"The goal of the Open IPTV initiative is to introduce a new level of customization and flexibility to the IP network, enabling applications and end-users to exert control in real time over IP network characteristics," said Shailesh Shukla, vice president of service provider marketing and partnerships, Juniper Networks. "CableLabs' Web Services Interface is very much aligned with this goal, and our support for this specification will give cable operators the ability to differentiate their services on features and functionality, increasing revenue opportunities and subscriber loyalty."

The SDX-300 includes a PacketCable Multimedia-qualified Policy Server and WSI interface support, and delivers subscriber, service and resource management to both DOCSIS and IP domains concurrently, enabling providers to rapidly create and deploy new IP services to hundreds of thousands of subscribers. Deployed in over 100 networks and supporting millions of subscribers worldwide, including the world's largest IPTV deployment, the SDX-300 is an industry leading policy and resource management platform.

How WSI Works
Triggered by an end-user request, the Application Server will use the Web Services Interface to signal Juniper Networks SDX-300. The SDX-300 would then send policies across the entire network, from core IP network to the set-top box, to perform the requested action: increase bandwidth, shift bandwidth between applications, or improve the quality of service for a given amount of time. Potential applications could include a "turbo" button for faster downloads, increased bandwidth for high-definition video on demand, or superior quality of service for an online gaming session.