Edgecore Networks is unveiling its new data center networking product, the DCS511 spine switch, designed for 400G operations.
Constructed using the Broadcom Tomahawk 4 chipset, this device boasts a robust switching capacity of 12.8 Terabits per second. It is equipped with 32 ports, each supporting 400G speeds, suitable for high-density 100/400 GbE configurations whether spine-to-spine or spine-to-leaf.
The introduction of the DCS511 caters to the burgeoning needs of advanced computing environments, notably in areas such as cloud services and artificial intelligence.
“Powered by the Broadcom TH4 chipset, the DCS511 switch is fine-tuned for spine applications within both hyperscale and enterprise data center setups,” stated Gaurav Sharma, the principal product manager at Edgecore, in an interview with Network World.
Sharma explained that the infrastructure often relies on Layer-3 functionalities and BGP. The design allows for endpoints to connect via a server NIC, typically using either VLAN or VXLAN protocols. This method facilitates the use of DCS511 as a leaf switch possessing Layer-3 scalability. Furthermore, the Edgecore AIS800G (64*800G) switch is designed to function at the uppermost layer, forming a ‘super spine’ which integrates with the DCS511 in a Clos network structure.
The DCS511 integrates multiple progressive networking features which distinctly elevate it above previous models offered by Edgecore, highlighting:
Edgecore is committed to promoting open networking and actively backs various open-source projects.
Moreover, the DCS511 supports the Open Network Install Environment (ONIE), initially devised under the Open Compute Project (OCP). This capability allows for the installation of different network operating systems (NOS), including the open-source SONiC, providing an adaptable platform tailored to distinct network specifications and preferences.
Edgecore actively contributes and participates in the SONiC community, which has seen growth recently to address evolving networking needs.
Sharma pointed out that recent SONiC updates have introduced capabilities to better handle AI/ML workloads and GPU-based networks. In particular, the DCS511 adapts new SONiC features like RoCEv2 for lossless data exchange. RoCE (RDMA over Converged Ethernet) helps cut down network latency and boosts network efficiency.
Moreover, the DCS511 equipped with SONiC will facilitate dynamic load balancing, improving AI traffic management. Sharma mentioned that SONiC has also enhanced its PFC (priority flow control) watchdog system to prevent deadlocks, aiding in AI applications including complex language models.
“SONiC deployment is accelerating worldwide, standing at the heart of data center networking,” Sharma remarked. “SONiC delivers critical functionalities necessary for managing mission-critical operations within both hyperscale and enterprise data centers.”
