Nokia is expanding its IP routing portfolio to help mission critical networks including utilities that are transitioning to smart grid technologies.

Nokia is expanding and enhancing its 7705 service aggregation router (SAR) and 7250 interconnect router (IXR) platforms to address the escalating demand for secure, scalable and high-performance networking infrastructure.

Utilities worldwide are rolling out smart grid technologies to tackle multiple urgent problems at once. These systems are designed to make the grid more resilient in the face of climate disruptions and growing cyber threats. At the same time, they support the integration of distributed energy resources such as rooftop solar and battery storage, which are crucial for hitting net-zero emissions targets.

Smart grids also improve operational efficiency and real-time monitoring through IEC 61850-enabled automation. Beyond technical gains, they help utilities stay compliant with fast-changing regulations and government mandates, ensuring the grid is ready for the future.

Nokia’s expansion delivers end-to-end, secure and adaptable IP routing that scales from the enterprise edge to the data centre core, helping utilities evolve their communications infrastructure for smart grid technologies.

The 7705 SAR (www.nokia.com/ip-networks/7705-service-aggregation-router) and 7250 IXR (www.nokia.com/ip-networks/7250-interconnect-router) platforms provide capabilities to deliver application-aware communications for TDM and IP Ethernet services. Built to meet the needs of utilities, the platforms allow support for legacy protective relays, scada RTUs and IEC 61850 IEDs with precise frequency and time synchronisation distribution across the grid.

Utilities can also counter escalating cyber-security threats, including those enabled by quantum computing, by deploying Nokia’s quantum-safe Macsec encryption. And because the pervasive use of substation CCTV cameras and sensors continue to drive up bandwidth use, the platforms ensure the networks can scale to 100 and 400GE to support these critical applications and future high-capacity services.

“Our energy customers are demanding networks that not only deliver bandwidth but also endure the harshest conditions, meet strict timing needs and prepare them for quantum-era threats,” said Vach Kompella, senior vice president at Nokia (www.nokia.com). “With these latest additions, we’re reinforcing our commitment to mission-critical connectivity, building on the proven versatility of our Nokia 7705 SAR and 7250 IXR platforms to give utilities unmatched flexibility, performance and security.”