Liberty Global Leverages Vecima’s Entra® Access Test Platform to Accelerate Network Convergence and Efficiency
In a significant step toward modernizing its infrastructure, Liberty Global, one of the world’s leading providers of converged video, broadband, and communications services, has partnered with Vecima Networks Inc. (TSX: VCM) to integrate the Entra® Access Test Platform into its operations. This collaboration marks a pivotal advancement in Liberty Global’s strategy to simplify and accelerate the convergence of cable, fiber, and mobile access networks while optimizing service flows through automated software tools and testing.
The Entra Access Test Platform is designed to replicate production-scale environments, enabling operators to conduct comprehensive, high-fidelity testing of Converged Multi-Access Network technologies. These include virtual Cable Modem Termination Systems (vCMTS), which are critical components in next-generation broadband deployments. By adopting this platform, Liberty Global aims to transition away from manual testing processes, unlocking substantial time and cost efficiencies while ensuring robust validation cycles.
Transforming Network Validation with Automation
For Liberty Global, the shift toward automated testing represents more than just an operational upgrade—it’s a strategic move to future-proof its network infrastructure. Manual testing methods, while historically reliable, have become increasingly cumbersome and inefficient as networks grow more complex. The Entra Access Test Platform addresses these challenges by providing scalable, automated solutions that streamline workflows and deliver consistent results.
Colin Buechner, Managing Director and Chief Network Officer at Liberty Global, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “Working with Vecima represents a strategic leap forward in how we approach network validation and integration. It strengthens our deployment capabilities and establishes a common, vendor-neutral testing framework that is quickly becoming the industry standard. This is a landmark achievement for the cable sector, fostering greater interoperability, accelerating innovation, and delivering shared value across the entire ecosystem.”
By adopting Vecima’s platform, Liberty Global is not only enhancing its own operations but also contributing to the broader evolution of the industry. As networks continue to converge and diversify, having a unified, standardized testing framework ensures seamless interoperability between different technologies and vendors—a key factor in driving innovation and efficiency.
Empowering Operators with Scalable Testing Solutions
Vecima’s Entra Access Test Platform has already proven its value in collaboration with other Tier 1 operators deploying third-party cores. Validated alongside Vecima’s own Entra product portfolio, the platform demonstrates exceptional interoperability, reliability, and performance assurance across the broadband access landscape. Its ability to simulate real-world conditions allows operators to identify potential issues early, reducing downtime and improving overall network quality.
“Vecima remains at the forefront of advancing Distributed Access Architecture (DAA) solutions, supporting operators globally as they evolve their networks,” said Ken Kerwin, Group Vice President at Vecima. “Our work with Liberty Global underscores a shared vision for addressing complex, real-world network challenges with precision. Operators understand the importance of ensuring their transition to vCMTS is as reliable as current CCAP deployments. Automated and scalable testing enabled by the Entra Access Test Platform is essential to achieving that goal.”
The platform’s scalability makes it particularly well-suited for large-scale deployments, where consistency and repeatability are paramount. By automating repetitive tasks and eliminating human error, the Entra Access Test Platform empowers operators to focus on higher-value activities, such as optimizing network performance and enhancing customer experiences.
Driving Innovation Through Strategic Synergies
Vecima’s recent acquisition of Falcon V Systems in October 2024 further amplifies the momentum behind the Entra Access Test Platform. Falcon V’s expertise in automation and expanded R&D capabilities across Europe have strengthened Vecima’s position as a global leader in broadband technology. This synergy enables Vecima to develop cutting-edge, vendor-agnostic solutions that promote greater standardization and interoperability within the industry.
The acquisition underscores Vecima’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market. By combining Falcon V’s innovative automation tools with its existing portfolio, Vecima continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in network testing and validation. For Liberty Global, this means access to even more advanced capabilities as it navigates the complexities of next-generation broadband deployment.
A Shared Vision for the Future
As Liberty Global embarks on this journey with Vecima, both companies share a common vision: to create a more connected, efficient, and interoperable broadband ecosystem. The adoption of the Entra Access Test Platform is a testament to Liberty Global’s dedication to innovation and its willingness to embrace new technologies that drive meaningful change.
For the broader industry, this partnership serves as a model for how collaboration can lead to transformative outcomes. By prioritizing automation, scalability, and interoperability, Liberty Global and Vecima are setting new standards for network validation and integration. These efforts not only benefit their respective organizations but also pave the way for others to follow suit.
About Liberty Global
Liberty Global (NASDAQ: LBTYA, LBTYB, and LBTYK) is a dynamic team of operators and investors generating and delivering shareholder value through the strategic management of three platforms — Liberty Telecom, Liberty Growth, and Liberty Services.
Liberty Telecom is a world leader in converged broadband, video and mobile communications services, delivering next-generation products through advanced fiber and 5G networks. Liberty Telecom currently provides approximately 80 million* connections through some of Europe’s best-known consumer brands, including Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) in the U.K., VodafoneZiggo in the Netherlands, Telenet in Belgium and Virgin Media in Ireland. With our substantial scale and commitment to innovation, we are building Tomorrow’s Connections Today, investing in the infrastructure and platforms that empower our customers to make the most of the digital revolution, while deploying the advanced technologies that nations and economies need to thrive.
Liberty Telecom’s consolidated businesses generate annual revenue of approximately $3.6 billion, while VMO2 and VodafoneZiggo (nonconsolidated joint ventures) generate combined annual revenue of more than $18 billion.**
Liberty Growth invests, grows and rotates capital into scalable businesses across the technology, media/content, sports and infrastructure industries with a portfolio of approximately 70 companies and various funds, including stakes in companies like ITV, Televisa Univision, Plume, EdgeConneX and AtlasEdge, as well as our controlling interest in the Formula E racing series. Liberty Services delivers innovative technology and finance services, generating approximately $600 million in revenue.***
* Represents aggregate consolidated and 50% owned nonconsolidated fixed and mobile subscribers. Includes wholesale mobile connections of VMO2 and B2B fixed subscribers of VodafoneZiggo. Telenet, VMO2 and VodafoneZiggo deliver mobile services as mobile network operators. Virgin Media Ireland delivers mobile services as a mobile virtual network operator through third-party networks.
**Revenue figures above are provided based on full year 2024 Liberty Global consolidated results and the combined as reported full year 2024 results for VodafoneZiggo and full year 2024 U.S. GAAP results for VMO2.
***Represents full year 2024 revenue of Liberty Services, substantially all of which is derived from our consolidated businesses and nonconsolidated joint ventures.
For more information, please visit www.libertyglobal.com.
About Vecima Networks
Vecima Networks Inc. (TSX: VCM) is leading the global evolution to the multi-gigabit, content-rich networks of the future. Our talented people deliver future-ready software, services, and integrated platforms that power broadband and video streaming networks, monitor and manage transportation, and transform experiences in homes, businesses, and everywhere people connect. We help our customers evolve their networks with cloud-based solutions that deliver ground-breaking speed, superior video quality, and exciting new services to their subscribers. There is power in connectivity – it enables people, businesses, and communities to grow and thrive. Learn more at vecima.com.
