Network control centers
Introduction
The Network Control Center (CCR) or Network Operations Center, is one or more sites from which control of computer networks, television transmission or telecommunications such as satellites and fiber optics is carried out. In English the name is Network Operations Center (NOC).
As organizations grow, they can operate more than one CCR either to segment the control and monitoring of networks based on the different technologies that coexist (typical example: cellular networks and SDH transmission networks) or to provide geographic redundancy.
Features
The Network Control Center (CCR) or NOC is responsible for designing, installing, and providing corrective and preventive maintenance to the operation (Management, Support and monitoring) of data telecommunications networks. As well as the person responsible for monitoring the networks based on alarms or conditions that require special attention to avoid impact on the performance of the networks and the service to end customers. For example, in a telecommunications environment, the CCR is responsible for monitoring power failures, alarms on transport networks, and other performance aspects that would affect the network. The CCR will analyze the problem, carry out troubleshooting, dispatch field personnel as well as follow up until its resolution. If necessary, the CCR will also escalate to appropriate personnel so that it is resolved in a timely manner. In some cases it is almost impossible to anticipate severe conditions such as electrical failures or fiber optic power outages, but the CCR has procedures to immediately involve specialized personnel to solve the problem.
The CCR escalates hierarchically, so for example, if an event is not resolved within a specific period of time, the next level is informed to help speed up the resolution process. Network Control Centers have multiple "levels" that define how experienced a CCR specialist is. For example, a newly hired CCR specialist may be considered "Level 1," while a specialist who has been there for many years may be considered "Level 3" or "Level 4." In this way, some problems are escalated within the CCR before a field specialist or engineer from other networks is contacted.