The partnership introduces a new range of communications solutions for clients using the global model of open networking.

The companies are leveraging the partnership as open networking, already the standard in Europe, “is gaining momentum” in Asia Pacific and the Americas, driven by hyperscalers capitalising on new hardware and software innovations.

In contrast, traditional telecommunications providers rely on legacy equipment, locking customers into costly hardware refresh cycles and limiting their ability to upgrade or change functionality until the hardware needs to be replaced.

In a statement, the two companies highlighted the well-documented benefits of open networking.

“Low cost white box hardware can be added to a network with open-source software to update and upgrade individual network components, without relying on a single name-brand vendor for components.”

“This has the effect of reducing costs while increasing network capacity and security capabilities. For example, clients can add AI or 5G capabilities on their own timeline, rather than waiting for traditional vendors to release these features.”

“L2X offers network design, build, management, and consulting expertise, collaborating closely with internal network teams, or as an outsourcing business partner on new or existing networks,” says L2X Networks director and chief experience officer Punyalok Das.

“A long-time advocate of open networking, L2X promotes the benefits and champions cutting-edge cloud and AI native technologies,” he adds.

Open Union provides L2X access to t open networking software, hardware, and services from vendors like Edgecore, which they combine with their network engineering expertise.

This also includes the latest hardware designs for customer premise equipment routers, data centre switches, and open software, such as SONiC and Optics.

“Open Union recognises that while most technology hardware is manufactured in Asia Pacific, much of the value is captured by branded equipment providers outside the region, who lock clients into proprietary networks at premium prices,” says Open Union director Elizabeth Aris.

“Open Union offers a marketplace of industry proven technology, matching the quality of branded equipment, sourced directly from suppliers shortening the supply chain, promoting affordability and flexibility. This approach gives enterprises affordable, enterprise-grade hardware and software, capable of managing the exponential growth in data,” she adds.