Most operators have started their moves towards virtualization and/or SDN (software defined networking) in the network by focusing on one or two fairly discrete elements, such as the packet core or even the CPE, often harnessing experience initially gained in the data center. However, major SDN proponents like AT&T, Telefonica and Verizon believe the maximum benefits will be derived if, eventually, SDN is applied to every layer of the network, enabling access, last mile backhaul, optical transport and data center platforms to be managed as one end-to-end system. The past week has seen two important steps towards this goal. First, Alcatel-Lucent, whose advanced SDN activities will certainly be seen as key assets by its acquirer Nokia, claims to have implemented…