Communications network management-the CEGB perspective

The Central Electricity Generating Board (the Board) generates, transmits and supplies electric power in bulk to 12 Area Distribution Boards in England and Wales in the UK. The Board has been implementing a strategy of integrated telecommunications and operates a large private network, called the Corporate Communications Network (CCN), which uses digital and analogue technology to support voice and point-to-point data requirements. This paper examines the requirements for network management within the Board, describes existing and planned network management systems, relates the Board´s experience of managing and operating a private network and discusses the future of network management within a multivendor environment