Rakuten Mobile and Cisco Revolutionize Business Landscape with SRv6 uSID Deployment

Tokyo, July 29, 2024 - Rakuten Mobile and Cisco today announced a major milestone for network infrastructure in support of efforts to build a better, more inclusive internet for the future. The two companies have collaborated to successfully complete one of the world's largest Segment Routing over IPv6 Micro Segment ID (SRv6 uSID) IP transport network migrations^*1, unlocking a new era of unprecedented speed, agility and on-demand services^*2 for Japanese businesses nationwide.

Rakuten Mobile has already adopted SRv6 in its IP transport network, which connects base stations to its core network. In traditional networks adopting IPv6, the standard for IP addresses, priority is given to packet processing via the shortest possible route. SRv6 assigns Segment IDs to packets, enabling scalability for networks and other functions. By adopting uSID, Rakuten Mobile now has access to more refined and efficient methods of packet processing.

Utilizing a robust foundation built on SRv6 uSID-based IP transport networks, Rakuten Mobile launched its ultra-high-speed internet connection service “KOSOKU Access” in January 2024 as a fixed network service for enterprise customers. This enables customers to access fast, low-latency on-demand services in a secure and reliable business infrastructure with a 24/7 network maintenance system. This enables KOSOKU Access customers across Japan to effectively scale their connectivity usage depending on their evolving business demands.

Rakuten Mobile operates the world first’s fully virtualized cloud-native mobile network^*3. It launched 4G service in Japan in April 2020 in record time. With over 7 million subscribers^*4 today, Rakuten Mobile continues to advance and scale its network to support new demands of the network with the deployment of SRv6 uSID which introduces an unprecedented combination of speed, on-demand services, and low-latency capabilities for consumers and business of all sizes.

Leveraging the robust foundation laid by the SRv6 uSID-based IP transport network, Rakuten Mobile strategically positions itself to offer a suite of transformative enterprise services. Businesses can access tailored solutions, establish dedicated network segments, exercise granular control over performance, and achieve near-instantaneous data transfer^*2 for latency-sensitive applications.

"I’m proud that our strategic collaboration with Cisco goes beyond mere connectivity,” said Shailesh Gupta, Division Manager, Network Operations (SXC) Division at Rakuten Mobile. “This milestone migration delivered for Rakuten Mobile is a testament to our joint commitment to deliver innovative solutions to our customers in Japan as well as the global telecom industry, sparking a new wave of possibilities where mobile operators can thrive in the digital era.”

"Cisco takes immense pride in its role as a strategic partner in this monumental technological leap alongside Rakuten Mobile," said Vish Iyer, President, APJ Service Provider, Cisco. "Our dedication extends beyond collaboration; it's a commitment to providing businesses with indispensable infrastructure to thrive in today's ever-evolving landscape. This successful migration, one of the largest of its kind, stands as a testament to the depth of our dedication, reaffirming our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation as we navigate the dynamic currents of the digital era."

*1 As of January 2024. Research by Cisco.
*2 Restrictions on speed may be implemented during periods of heavy traffic in order to provide a fair service.
*3 For a large scale commercial mobile network (as of October 1, 2019). Research: Stella Associa.
*4 The 7 million subscribers number includes Rakuten Saikyo Plan, Rakuten Saikyo Plan Business, Rakuten Turbo subscribers and Mobile Virtual Network Enabler (MVNE) service customers (approx. 200,000 lines) as of June 16, 2024. The number of subscribers does not include BCP customers. (BCP is the B2B pricing plan for Business Continuity Plan purposes.)

About Cisco
Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide technology leader that securely connects everything to make anything possible. Our purpose is to power an inclusive future for all by helping our customers reimagine their applications, power hybrid work, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals. Discover more on The Newsroom and follow us on X at @Cisco. Cisco and the Cisco logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. A listing of Cisco's trademarks can be found at www.cisco.com/go/trademarks. Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company.

About Rakuten Mobile
Rakuten Mobile, Inc. is a Rakuten Group company responsible for mobile communications, centered on its mobile network operator (MNO) business. Through continuous innovation and the deployment of advanced technology, Rakuten Mobile aims to redefine expectations in the mobile communications industry in order to provide appealing and convenient services for diverse customer needs.

*Cisco, Cisco Systems and the Cisco Systems logo are registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. (1110R)
**Product names and service names published in this press release are generally trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Trademarks such as TM and ® may be omitted when trademarks are listed in this press release.