Nextlink Internet Moves Network to Standard Dell Servers
The broadband provider is replacing proprietary hardware with netElastic software to increase network capacity and flexibility.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Data Centers
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Nextlink Internet has successfully transitioned its broadband network to a software-defined infrastructure using netElastic systems running on Dell x86 servers. This deployment enables the provider, which serves 100,000 subscribers across 11 states, to move away from legacy proprietary hardware.
Why it matters
This shift towards white-box hardware reflects a broader industry movement to decouple network functions from specialized, locked-in vendor systems. By virtualizing its gateway and management layers, the company aims to reduce its total cost of ownership while gaining flexibility for future network expansion.
The architecture replaces proprietary hardware with virtualized Broadband Network Gateway and Carrier-Grade Network Address Translation software. This software runs on standard Dell x86 servers, replacing legacy systems that previously constrained the network.
The players
Nextlink Internet
A broadband provider based in Hudson Oaks, Texas, that delivers fiber and fixed wireless services to 100,000 subscribers.
netElastic
A California-based developer of software-defined networking solutions, including virtualized broadband network gateways.
Dell
A global hardware manufacturer that provides the standard x86 servers used for this virtualized network deployment.
Tarana
A network equipment provider that supplies the fixed wireless technology integrated into the Nextlink network.
The details
The system utilizes netElastic virtual software to manage network traffic, alongside the netVision management platform for operations. By using Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), the company automates subscriber onboarding and routine network management tasks. The infrastructure integrates directly with existing Tarana fixed wireless sites to maintain service across the provider's mixed fiber and wireless network.
Timeline
October 27, 2026: The software deployment is announced.
The Tech Race
Broadband providers are increasingly moving away from legacy chassis-based systems to reduce vendor lock-in. This deployment aligns with the industry-wide transition toward white-box hardware and virtualized network functions.
The transition to virtualized software is designed to improve capacity and service reliability for the company's 100,000 existing subscribers. As the migration continues across its 11-state footprint, the provider expects greater flexibility in managing its infrastructure and service upgrades.
The takeaway
Nextlink Internet has successfully prioritized network agility by moving its core operations to standard servers. Observers should track the company's progress as it continues to shift traffic to these virtualized systems in the coming months.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Data Centers.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fierce Network.
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