Extended Runtime: How Will It Affect Your Network Infrastructure?

The cable broadband network has evolved from being a vehicle for the provision of entertainment services to become a strategic element of the country’s infrastructure, providing broadband internet access to both homes and businesses. As the network’s capacity has grown, more and more mission critical applications are reliant on it. This dependence has been further increased by the pandemic, as the boundaries between home and office have eroded.

Without appropriate backup measures in place, however, network availability is only as good as the utility grid that powers it. Cable broadband operators, otherwise known as multiple-system operators (MSOs), have built resilience to power outages into their network by deploying combinations of generators and battery backup systems in headends, critical facilities and outdoor pole and ground sites. Nevertheless, recent extreme weather events across multiple states are leading to more frequent and longer power outages which are testing MSO backup capabilities.

Whether for competitive or regulatory reasons, extending network runtime is fast becoming a priority. MSOs are beginning to explore how this growing requirement will impact their network operations.