Neotel is in the process of completing an independent, nationwide, next generation telecom network, providing, for the first time ever in South Africa, a real alternative to the incumbent infrastructure. This network consists of a universal packet-based (IP) infrastructure, connected to users via a variety of edge devices and access technologies. The Neotel network is further complemented by a centralised intelligent service control and an independent services layer.

At the core of Neotel's network is a carrier-grade IP/MPLS network offering QoS, supported on a national optical fibre backbone (DWDM) reaching all of the major cities in South Africa. In metropolitan areas, high bandwidth Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will not only distribute the NGN services, but additionally provide unique high speed MAN services. The Neotel network will support local Ethernet services in the key metropolitan areas, at an early stage of roll-out, complementing the national MPLS enabled core network.

All technologies employed by Neotel provide for rapid provisioning of different services from the access hub (wireless or wireline). The chosen technologies provide cost effective service provision and cover a broad array of wireless, copper and fibre systems. Access to the core network will be provided using optical fibre or wireless technologies, as appropriate to the specific site and customer requirements, while ensuring optimal levels of network uptime in line with the Service Levels desired. Physical routing redundancy in the access portion will also be provided, where the customer so requires.

The effective Neotel national network will span around 10,000 kms of optical fibre infrastructure within cities as well as inter-city. A view of the logical routes of the effective Neotel network is available here.