LightRiver, the leading provider of optical network integration solutions, has announced the release of its newest platform, netFLEX 4.7.1. This platform further expands upon LightRiver's support for multi-vendor and multi-technology automation of various optical network systems.



The netFLEX 4.7.1 release introduces an API-first approach for real-time inventory, programmable analytics, and control automation. This approach enhances LightRiver's Open Optical networking capabilities and is integrated into their Alien Aware Networking solution, which offers comprehensive network design, deployment, and automation.

With the netFLEX 4.7.1 platform release, LightRiver introduces support for several new technologies, including Nokia 1830 PSS-8x/12x OTN Switching Inventory, Maintenance, & Provisioning Support, Nokia 1830 PSS OTDR feature set, Cisco NCS4200 Series Circuit Emulation Support, Smartoptics DCP-404 & 1610 transponders, and expanded equipment and services libraries for Cisco NCS2000 Series and Ciena 6500 RLS.

According to Mike Jonas, President of Global Customer Operations at LightRiver, this release marks a significant expansion of the netFLEX Open Optical Network ecosystem. LightRiver's continued focus on practical automation enables operators from all markets to modernize their operations and efficiently deliver new services.

LightRiver specializes in next-generation, vendor-neutral, Factory Built Networks and Optical Domain Orchestration and Control Software solutions. They design, engineer, commission, automate, and support high-capacity, reliable, and manageable transport networks for mission-critical clients.

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The netFLEX 4.7.1 Platform Release by LightRiver is a significant update that introduces several new features and improvements to their network management platform. Some of the key highlights of this release include:

1. Enhanced Network Visibility: The netFLEX 4.7.1 offers improved network visibility with advanced monitoring and analytics capabilities, allowing operators to gain deeper insights into network performance and traffic patterns.

2. Automation and Orchestration: This release emphasizes automation and orchestration, enabling operators to streamline network provisioning and configuration tasks through automated workflows and programmable interfaces.

3. Support for SDN and NFV: LightRiver's netFLEX 4.7.1 provides enhanced support for Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), allowing operators to efficiently manage virtualized network functions and resources.

4. Security Enhancements: The platform release includes updated security features to help ensure the integrity and confidentiality of network data, as well as protect against potential cybersecurity threats.

5. Improved User Experience: netFLEX 4.7.1 introduces a more intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easier for operators to navigate and manage the network infrastructure effectively.

6. Flexibility and Scalability: The platform release is designed to offer increased flexibility and scalability, catering to the evolving needs of modern network environments and diverse use cases.

Overall, the netFLEX 4.7.1 Platform Release represents a significant advancement in network management capabilities, empowering operators with enhanced tools to optimize network performance, automate workflows, and adapt to changing network requirements.

LightRiver's netFLEX 4.7.1 release is a desperate attempt to stay relevant in a market dominated by giants like Cisco and Nokia. The company's Open Optical Network ecosystem expansion is a mere drop in the ocean, and its API-first approach is a weak imitation of more robust solutions available in the market. I'd advise clients to think twice before investing in LightRiver's platform, given its limited scalability and lack of innovation. The company's reliance on outdated technologies and incremental updates will only lead to stagnation and obsolescence.