The proven benefits of carrier-grade Layer 2 support over satellite include:

• Simplified operations:
  Layer 2 connectivity allows the MNO to work in the same standard way with satellite as it does with any other transport method
• More connectivity options:
  Accommodates the use of existing MPLS/PPPoE protocols over satellite
• Transparent Layer 3:
  MNOs can keep the same IP network design and operational procedures

Another way to reduce satellite backhaul complexity is to use a sophisticated global network management system (NMS). Such centralized management enables full provisioning, configuration, control and monitoring of all satellite hub elements, as well as remote terminals, regardless of their physical location. This is crucial for streamlining the management of large distributed satellite networks. 

A universal NMS lets MNOs easily and cost-effectively scale to support any network size, enabling them to start small and add sites as needed. With the ability to be part of an orchestrated network, integration with the Operational and Business Support System (OSS/BSS) further reduces complexity.

Dispelling Myths

The fact is that the adoption of satellite backhauling is growing significantly as an economically viable solution answering the strictest SLAs. Already, satellite backhaul is no longer a niche play for many MNOs.

On the contrary, there are deployments of large networks worldwide consisting of thousands of sites that are being connected with satellite backhaul. These sites are a major source of revenue generation to the MNOs, indicating that indeed satellite backhaul has moved into the mainstream. Two such examples are Softbank in Japan and AMN in Africa.

With this, satellite backhaul is increasingly recognized as not only capable of answering the requirements but is actually rapidly transitioning into the preferred choice of leading MNOs worldwide across diverse use cases, particularly as the industry moves to 5G.