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Connecting to the distribution layer

A national network service connection via the distribution layer helps medium-sized organisations get the best network experience. The distribution layer also provides connectivity options at locations that are not core network PoPs.

About the distribution layer

The distribution layer allows many medium-sized organisations to connect to the network more simply. The distribution layer is made up of 12 routers located at network PoPs around the country. Members connect to a router, rather than a core network switch.

Being one step removed from the core backbone of the network, this layer provides REANNZ with control of the routing decisions and of who can access the network, and provides the member with a good network experience. While the member does not need the high level of resources and expertise required for a core connection, they will need to manage the edge device at their site and secure access circuits from their site to the PoP.

Connections to the distribution layer can be made at 100 Mb/s or 1 Gb/s, and can be made at Layer 1 (optical service) or Layer 2 (Ethernet service).

Eligibility

Connections to the distribution layer are available to Members (Other), Associate Members, Partners, and Content and Service Providers.

NB: You must submit your signed membership agreement before embarking on connecting to the network.

Costs

The following is a general guide on costs for connecting and maintaining your connection to the distribution layer. Connection costs include the REANNZ connection fee, connection design and edge device, as well as any ongoing last mile circuit ongoing support costs. The membership fee is additional to these technical costs.

Component Costs estimate
One-off costs  
Network designer $100 - $200 / hr for 10 - 30 hrs
REANNZ connection fee $4,200*
Edge router $2,000 - $16,000
Ongoing costs  
Edge router support $55 - $350 / mth
Layer 2 fibre (100Mb/s - 1Gb/s) $300 - $1,000 / mth

* May increase if short range optics are not suitable. See the connection cost FAQ for more information.

Technical standards

To make and manage a distribution layer connection to the network, you will need to arrange physical access and logical access. There are a variety of standards that should be used when connecting. The following standards have been set to ensure the performance and integrity of the network is maintained. These standards apply to connections to the distribution layer only.

We suggest you read through the relevant Connection Form for your member type to familiarise yourself with full details of the information we ask you to provide and work that needs to be completed.

NB: You will only be connected to the network once REANNZ has received and approved your completed connection form.

Physical access

Physical access to the POP

You will need an access circuit from a supplier to a PoP where there is a distribution router. Your physical access is the way in which your edge device will connect to the network PoP. This can be done at Layer 1 or Layer 2.

Connections to the PoPs should consider the following:

  • Fibre optic “last mile” is preferred. The “last mile” may also be delivered as a copper based service on Cat5e or greater cabling
  • LX or LHA optics depending on the measured optical loss of your access. Connections to be made at distances greater than 10km from the POP should be discussed with REANNZ before commencement
  • Each provider of physical services is required to install a dedicated OFDF in the REANNZ rack within the PoP. This OFDF must support one of the approved connector types:
    • Angled SC (SCA) - recommended
    • Angled LC (LCA)
    • SC
    • LC/UPC
  • Copper based termination should be made on a dedicated RJ-45 panel that is mounted at the rear of the passive rack.

Physical access within the POP

Connections within the network POPs should adhere to the following standards:

Connection options

Connections can be made to the network at the following port speeds:

  • 100 Mb/s
  • 1 Gb/s

Logical access

The network supports IPv4, IPv6 and IPv4 multicast services. Members will need expertise and an edge router at your site that can support these services.

The following standards must be supported in order to connect through a distribution router:

* REANNZ may be able to offer assistance by allocating IP address space.  This is dependant on your membership class.

Advanced options

The following options can also be used when connecting to the network:

Resource requirements

The technical requirements are only one part of the puzzle. To make a compliant, well performing connection, you will need a project manager and networking expertise.

You will also need either in-house or contracted ongoing network expertise to manage your connection for the long term. Some larger organisations have the internal expertise to manage their connection themselves. If you are a smaller organisation we suggest you hire someone to provide technical help. They will need to be able to:

  • design your connection
  • manage routing, configs and local firewall rules and performance
  • diagnose and resolve performance related issues

Exclusions

REANNZ's network is not an ISP, and therefore, members need to have their own:

  • Filtering
  • Firewalling
  • ISP

Connection forms

These connection forms are specific to your membership category and the type of connection you intend to make.

NB: You must submit your signed membership agreement before finally connecting to the network. You will only be connected to the network once REANNZ has received and approved your completed connection form.

Please fill in the form and email it directly to: connections@reannz.co.nz

Member (Other) connection form (xlsx, 20KB)

Associate member connection form (xlsx, 20KB)

Partner connection form (xlsx, 20KB)

Content and Service Provider connection form (xlsx, 20KB)

 



by Dr. Radut.