As Affirmed Networks technology, now an integral part of the Azure for Operators portfolio moves further into its lifecycle, a critical deadline is approaching for enterprises globally. As widely reported, standard technical support for legacy Affirmed configurations is expected to be phased out, leaving many organisations at a high-stakes crossroads.
For enterprises that rely on Affirmed Networks’ virtualised Evolved Packet Core (vEPC) or early 5G cloud-native solutions, “doing nothing” is no longer viable. The impending removal of vendor-led technical support introduces significant risks, from unpatched security vulnerabilities to catastrophic system downtime without a safety net.
The Looming Challenge: Support Discontinuation
When a primary vendor discontinues technical support, the impact is felt across the entire operational stack. Enterprises currently face three primary pressures:
- Security Vulnerabilities: Without official patches, legacy systems become prime targets for cyber threats.
- Operational Instability: As hardware ages and software environments evolve, the lack of expert troubleshooting can lead to prolonged service outages.
- Forced Migration: Vendors often push for immediate, costly migrations to newer platforms that may not yet align with your current CAPEX or OPEX cycles.
The Logical Alternative: Managed Solutions
The pressure to migrate “overnight” can lead to rushed implementations and technical debt. Penta Consulting offers a strategic middle ground. Our Managed Support Solutions are designed specifically to extend the timeline of your existing infrastructure, providing the specialist expertise required to keep your Affirmed Networks environment stable, secure, and fully operational.
Why Choose a Managed Solution?
Instead of navigating the end-of-support phase alone, Penta Consulting provides a robust framework to maintain your competitive edge:
- Extended Specialist Support: Our team consists of experienced engineers with deep, hands-on experience in Affirmed Networks technology. We provide the level of technical depth that is disappearing from the primary market.
- Risk Mitigation: We offer 24/7 monitoring and bespoke maintenance, ensuring that hardware and software issues are resolved before they impact your end-users.
- Cost-Effective Longevity: Transitioning on your own terms, rather than the vendor’s, allows for better budget planning. Our managed services typically reduce operating costs compared to emergency vendor extensions or rushed migrations.
- Seamless Transition Planning: We work with you to bridge the gap between your legacy systems and your future network architecture, ensuring a smooth transition when you are ready.
Secure Your Network’s Future
The window for decision-making regarding Affirmed Networks is closing. You can either be forced into a high-pressure migration or take control of your infrastructure’s lifecycle with a partner who understands the stakes.
Penta Consulting has over 25 years of experience delivering innovative, multi-vendor business solutions to global operators. We specialise in managing end-of-life equipment with the most experienced engineers in the industry.
Don’t wait for support to stop. Contact Penta Consulting to learn how our Managed Solutions can protect your network and extend your technology timeline.
Ready to bridge the gap?
Reach out to our specialist team at [email protected] or call us at +44 (0)20 8647 3999 to discuss a tailored support plan.