Telecom
SATCOM: Creating End-to-End Efficiency for IP Trunking and IP Backbone Networks for 5G
By Andrew Aroh
- Efficiency and more throughput are at the core of emerging technologies for IP at the core of emerging technologies for IP Trunking and IP Backbone networks and applications to drive 5G.
- The latest technology is based on DVB-S2 and S2 Extensions standards and combines a set of innovative technologies in order to fully optimize the Trunking and Backbone Links. These technologies are:
- Adaptive coding and modulation (ACM)
- Cross-layer Optimization
- Bandwidth cancellation
- Clean Channel Technology
- Automated Uplink Power Control (AUPC)
- Wideband in GBs
The Dedicated technologies enhance the data throughput up to record breaking speeds in a large set of IP point-to-point or point or point-to-Multipoint networks.
- Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM)
- The tranking business is a highly competitive market with continuous pressure on pricing and profitability.
- The implementation of ACM translates directly into new business opportunities for ISPs, satellite service Operators and Satellite Operators.
- ACM increases the customer base within the same bandwidth. At the same time it introduces ways to reduce OPEX costs and increase the profitability of one’s business. Resulting in a quick Return-on Investment.
- ACM combines DVB-S2 and S2 Extensions with different technologies to get as much data through the same satellite bandwidth as possible.
- ACM will auto-adaptively set modulation parameters to the optimal point and overcomes distortion, noise and variation in the satellite link.
- Through ACM the data rates between uplink and remote sites (for both point-to-point and point-to-mattip networks) can be doubled in the same bandwidth without the need to acquire extra satellite capacity. As such a quick Return-on-Investment can be achieved in a matter of months.
- Optimal Service Availability through ACM
- Communication lines over satellite need to be available at all time to exchange critical information and to keep customer satisfaction at a high level.
- However, fading conditions could seriously disturb the satellite transmission and lead to temporary link losses.
- Fading conditions could be due to different circumstances:
- The choice of satellite/frequency and (Geo, Leo, Meo/C-,X-,Ku-,Ka-,V-band)
- Environmental Conditions (rain, dust, etc.)
- Interference (between two adjacent Satellites)
- Due to the auto-adaptive technology incorporated inside ACM, these fading conditions will no longer interrupt the transmission between the hub and remote nor result in the loss of data.
- In fading conditions, ACM will switch to a more robust modulation and provide optimal availability.
As soon as fading conditions are over, ACM technology automatically switches back to maximum efficiency,
- Moreover, Service Priorities (e.g video, data, voice) and Quality-of-service policies can be auto-adapted on-the-fly depending on the bandwidth availability through cross-layer optimization technology.
- Network Traffic Optimization
- Network congestion reduces the customer experience and the overall throughput over the communications link
- In order to Enhance Speed and Save on bandwidth, Service Providers can easily add Network Optimization to their Trunking Links.
- Network Optimization Consists of the Latest TCP/IP Acceleration and Compression Technologies which increases the efficiency of the satellite link on top of technologies such as ACM.
- Network Optimization is available as option in the Hubs or can added as separate equipment or software.
- Network Optimization technology offers up to 35% bandwidth reduction for typical applications such as file download, web surfing and content streaming.
- The reduction of traffic in both Volume and Number of packets is up to 20% in the forward and up to 90% in the return.
- Network Optimization technology improves customer Experience and results in important bandwidth gains.
- Bandwidth Cancellation:
- Uses Bandwidth Canceller
- Return traffic uses the same bandwidth as the forward traffic
- Implements Superior Cancellation Performance
- Bandwidth gain up to 33%
- Flexible network scenarios are used (SCPC, MCPC)
- Best efficiency with ACM
- Automated Equalink
- Performs Pre-distortion to compensate for the effects of imperfections in the filters and amplifiers of the satellite
- Supports Linear & Non-Linear Links
- Supports Saturated Transponders
- Supports 16/32/64 APSK
- Bandwidth Gain up to 10% (or 2GB)
- Clean Channel Technology:
- As a result of drive for standards, key players in the satellite industry have called for a new satellite transmission standard (S2 Extensions) to expand the existing DVB-S2 standard, specifically for professional satellite links.
- Open Standards such as DVB-S2 and S2 Extensions allow for:
- Interoperability and avoid vendor lock-in
- Increase in the profitability of the industry by creating an economy of scale and reducing the cost of sitcom equipment
- Today S2 Extensions already provide gains up to 37% compared to DVB-S2 through implementation of clean Channel Technology. These gains exceed the results by proprietary systems in the market
- Clean Channel Technology involves 7 improvements in S2 Extensions:
- Smaller Roll-offs
- Advanced Filtering of Satellite Carriers
- Increased Granularity in MODCODs
- 64APSK support
- Linear and Non-linear MODCODs
- Better implementation of MODCODs
- Wideband Support (up to mbaud)
- Clean Channel Technology can be offered as a software field upgrade so that customers can immediately field upgrade so that customers can immediately benefit up to 15% gain compared to DVB-S2 through implementing a lower Roll-off factor (5/10/15%) and an advanced filtering technology.
- Best-of-Trade-Equipment
- Emerging Hubs and Modems support medium and high rate data communication based on the DVB-S2 and S2 Extensions
- Each Equipment embeds the latest innovative technologies to fully optimize IP Trunking and IP backbone networks over Integrated Satellite/Wireless/Fiber Solutions for 5G.
- No extra or new ground infrastructure (antenna or amplifier) needs to be acquired to enable higher efficiencies.
- Next to hubs and moderns, peripheral equipment such as redundancy Switches and Frequency Converters provide the Trunking and Backbone networks with extra stability and
- Hubs and Moderns are installed on each side of the link.
- Networks in Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multipoint (star) or Multipoint-to-point configuration are supported through Single-channel-per-Carrier (MCPC) technologies.
- Within the same Carrier different Services such as data, video, voice, voIP, Wifi, WiMAX, GPRS, 3G/4G can be aggregate using MAP.
- Through the multi-service hub, Service providers with their respective customers are connected with a common forward carrier.
- The return technology can be SCPC or MF-TDMA depending on the return rate, the size of the remote or the network configuration.
- By aggregating the data traffic in a common forward carrier and combing equipment in a single hub, important CAPEX and OPEX savings can be made.
- Extra bandwidth gains are achieved by implementing ACM, clean channel Technology and Cross-Layer-Optimization technologies on top of the Multi-Service network.
- The Multi-service network also allows the service provider to provider IP access service provider to provide IP access service on a direct way or an indirect way (Backhaul, Trunking) to the end user.
- The hub provides internal and interface (RF, IP power Supply)
- The internal redundancy is conceived as two fully redundant chains.
- When there is a failure an automatic switch over to the other chain is performed.
- Even during service windows there is limited downtime since upgrades can be performed on one of the chains with the other chain active in a previous version.
- A failure in the RF path is resolved by switching to the alternative RF interface.
- Multiservice Access Platform (MAP) is a scalable, integrated system that can provide a wide range of voice, video and data services in a single chassis.
- A MAP can be located at the customer premises, in the local Loop/ Last mile or at the carrier’s point of presence (POP).
- Efficient Carrier Grade Gateway and Consumer Terminal Concept
- A typical Broadband solution is based on the Sat3play platform
- The platform provides the means to establish an “always-on” two-way IP Connectivity.
- The basic IP connectivity between Hub and Modem is extended with Quality-of-Service (QoS) in forward and return allowing the deployment of different services.
- QoS is the capability to provide better service to selected network traffic over various technologies such as Ethernet, frame relay, ATM or IP.
- The gateway contains management functionalities to monitor, configure and control all worldwide remotes.
- The Gateway provides all necessary infrastructures to receive and transmit IP data from and to the terminals.
- The Gateway has redundancy on all layers (user, control, management) equipment; RF signal and mains supply inputs.
- Gateways are points of entrance and exist from a communication network.
- Viewed as a physical entity, a gateway is that node that translates between two otherwise incompatible networks or network segments.
- Gateway performs code and protocol conversion to facilitate traffic between data highways of differing architecture.
- A GATEKEEPER is a device that manages an IP network, supporting all gateways, and a gatekeeper e.g low average-to-peak ratios in the traffic Profile. This results in high broadband user experience.
- Unique Design:
- The design of the compact modem and the lightweight low power outdoor equipment; the cost and “Look and Feel” of the terminal is in line with the consumer market requirements
- Lowest Consumer Acquisition Cost:
- With the lowest terminal cost on the market and a unique Do-it-yourself installation, the total customer acquisition cost is not a deterrent factor for capturing new subscribers.
- Self-Installation at Zero:
- Value Added Logistics
- Terminal Customization
- New Business Models, Retail outlet Channels and e-commerce
- Zero CAPEX Internet Service Providers Satellite System
- The require satellite system is Operated as Single-Service-Provider Platform AND Multi-Service-Provider Platform
- On a multi-Service-Provider Platform, new ISPs can start with a Zero CAPEX and the ability to rollout services immediately
- Different Service Providers Share the same HARDWARE and CAPACITY while they are capable of managing their own Customer base and Service Configuration.
- Unlimited Scalability: the total number of users in the Satellite system scales without System limitation. The addition of capacity in order to accommodate more users or offer better QoS comes with an almost linear increase of investment result.
On the other hand, satellite capacity represents the largest cost element in the total cost of Ownership (CTO). Efficient usage of satellite capacity is therefore mandatory.
- The End-Customer is expectation for Satellite broadband offerings are:
- Monthly rate on par with terrestrial broadband services
- Volumes as needed
- True broadband experience-Implementing FUP which assures that all broadband customers enjoy the same experience and have access to quick and reliable service at all time.
Andrew Aroh is President of SSPI Nigeria
In 2005, few could have predicted that a small Nigerian technology company would evolve into one of Africa’s most trusted IT infrastructure, cloud, and cybersecurity brands. Today, Layer3 celebrates 20 years of doing just that, transforming IT from a technical necessity into a strategic advantage for enterprises, governments, and innovators across the continent.
The Foundation: Trust Earned, Not Assumed
The Layer3 story begins where every great enterprise story should, with trust.
Over two decades, Layer3 has earned a reputation for reliability in a sector defined by change. Across multiple industries: finance, energy, health, government, and telco, clients have turned to Layer3 not only for solutions, but for peace of mind.
As Layer3’s CEO, Oyaje Idoko, succinctly puts it, “Uptime, SLAs, fast response, fixing issues permanently, that’s what real IT service means, that’s what we built Layer3 to deliver. However, it’s not just about systems, it’s about people. Our team is the backbone of that promise: engineers, support staff, and every Layeron who shows up every day to make excellence a standard, not an exception.”
From deploying core network infrastructure, distributed branch networks, and disaster recovery solutions for banks, telcos, and large enterprises, to ensuring uninterrupted cloud infrastructure for Africa’s fastest-growing startups, Layer3 has become synonymous with business continuity at enterprise scale.
The Powerhouse: Innovation Without Compromise
While trust laid the foundation, innovation became the fuel. In 2019, Layer3 launched Layer3Cloud, Nigeria’s first locally owned enterprise-grade cloud platform. At the time, many questioned whether Nigerian businesses were ready to migrate from on-premise infrastructure or to host their data locally. Five years later, Layer3Cloud is powering banks, fintechs, large enterprises, and governments, delivering secure, elastic, and scalable compute power at home.
Beyond cloud, Layer3 has continued to evolve with the times:
- Fiber infrastructure rollouts that connect enterprises and residences to the future.
- Enterprise-grade zero-trust cybersecurity frameworks deployed across financial and public institutions.
- AI-driven and software-defined network solutions through partnerships with global OEMs like Juniper Networks, HPE, Cisco, and Fortinet.
Behind every innovation is a team of engineers whose brilliance is matched only by their resilience.
Reflecting on Layer3’s journey, Oyaje Idoko highlighted the often-overlooked role of technical talent, “Behind every seamless connection and resolved incident is a network engineer who’s worked through the night, responded to a 3am call, and made sure systems stay up when it matters most. Shake their hand and ask them about routing, about switching. These are the unsung heroes powering Africa’s digital future. Indeed, Layer3’s engineers don’t just build networks, they build nations.”
The Shield: Defending Africa’s Digital Economy
In today’s world, trust and innovation mean nothing without security and at Layer3, cybersecurity isn’t just a service, it’s a mindset.
“We’ve built an elite team of cyber defenders, and we’re still growing. We defend banks, telcos, governments and organizations of all types and sizes. If you’re in Africa and serious about protecting your business, you should be speaking to Layer3”, says Godwin Michaels, Layer3 CTO.
Layer3 is at the frontline of defending Africa’s most sensitive data. From real-time threat intelligence and incident response to managed SIEM and penetration testing, the company is quietly but forcefully defending Nigeria’s digital borders.
This commitment has earned Layer3 the loyalty of institutions where downtime isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s a national risk.
Layer3 has also been recognized multiple times over the years as a leading player in the IT space across Africa.
Two Decades of Impact: Highlights at a Glance
Year Milestone
2005 Layer3 founded in Abuja, Nigeria as a Virtual Network Operator
2007 Expanded to Lagos and rolled out last-mile fiber infrastructure across Abuja and Lagos
2008 Expanded into enterprise networking and managed services
2015 Launched cybersecurity division
2019 Launched Layer3Cloud, Nigeria’s premier local cloud platform
2021 Rolled out Layer3Fiber, an FTTH service expanding broadband to homes and small businesses
2025 Celebrates 20 years with thousands of projects completed across sub-Saharan Africa and counting
Shaping Africa’s Digital Future: The Road Ahead for Layer3
As Layer3 enters its third decade, its sights are set higher: expansion into new African markets, hybrid cloud deployments, AI-driven network infrastructure, digital public infrastructure solutions, and most importantly, developing the next generation of African tech talent.
According to Oyaje, “Layer3 was built on the belief that African businesses deserve world-class technology delivered by people who understand the terrain. That vision hasn’t changed, it’s only gotten bigger.”
From a startup with a dream to a national asset securing the future, Layer3 has become more than a technology company, it’s a legacy of excellence.
To our clients, partners, regulators, and Layerons, thank you for 20 years of belief.
Here’s to 20 more years of trust, innovation, and impact.
We are Layer3. We deliver peace of mind.
In a nation where the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector contributed a 19.78% to Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Q2 2024, the recently concluded Y’ello Care initiative, which ran from June 1 to June 21 2025, has demonstrated how digital tools can transform lives at the grassroots level.
This year’s program, themed ‘Connecting at the Roots,’ directly aligns with Nigeria’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy 2020-2030, which seeks to leverage digital technology for comprehensive economic growth.
Y’ello Care’s focused efforts are crucial in bridging the existing digital divide, especially given that while mobile phone penetration has reached 84%, equitable access and digital literacy remain key challenges for many of Nigeria’s over 163 million internet users.
At the core of the employee volunteerism initiative was a comprehensive approach to digital inclusion. The program delivered extensive training and empowerment sessions covering vital areas such as digital literacy, artificial intelligence, financial inclusion, content creation and monetisation, personal branding and employability.
A significant component of the initiative involved the donation of essential technological resources. Over 86 desktop computers and 133 learning devices were distributed, providing tangible tools for education and skill development.
Furthermore, the deployment of over 400 connectivity tools, including routers and MiFi devices, has significantly enhanced internet access, laying the groundwork for sustainable digital engagement.
To complement these efforts, thousands of branded kits, educational supplies, and business support items were also distributed, directly aiding beneficiaries in their learning and entrepreneurial pursuits.
These tangible contributions directly address the infrastructure gaps that hinder digital inclusion, particularly in underserved communities.
Solar power infrastructure was installed in selected schools, ensuring sustainable access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) even in areas with unreliable power grids.
The impact of this 21-day intensive program is evident in its impressive reach. The initiative directly benefited over 8,932 individuals across diverse communities, schools, and health centres. The Medical Official of Ikoyi/Obalende Local Council Development Area (one of the beneficiaries of the Y’ello Care programme), Dr Akintayo Akintoba Adebayo, expressed profound admiration for the recent donation by the company. He said he was “speechless” at the positive developments unfolding daily in the area and noted that the donated items were essential medical supplies poised to significantly enhance healthcare delivery in the local government.
This undertaking was made possible by the dedication of over 1,145 staff and volunteer facilitators, who committed more than 3,947 volunteer hours across 18 divisions and national sessions.
Their collective efforts underscore the power of human connection in driving digital transformation and creating lasting positive change.
In conclusion, the Y’ello Care initiative stands as a powerful testament to the potential of collaborative efforts in addressing societal challenges. By combining technological innovation with dedicated human support, this and similar programmes bridge digital divides and empower countless individuals, fostering a more inclusive and digitally literate society from the ground up.
Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed September 24 to rule on several applications in the case of Abubakar Ismaila Isa, a businessman, who claims that his 43 million shares were allegedly transferred to Emerging Markets Telecommunication Services Limited, operating under the trade name 9mobile, without his consent.
The matter before Justice Mohammed Umar on Wednesday, was filed by Isa’s legal team led by Femi Atteh, SAN, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1971/2024.
The plaintiff seeks an order declaring him the “beneficial owner of the 43,000,000 (forty-three million) ordinary shares held in trust for him by the 1st Defendant (Seltrix Limited) in the capital of the 3rd Defendant (Teleology Nigeria Limited).”
He accused Seltrix Limited of purportedly transferring the said shares to 9mobile without his consent, resulting in the alleged illegal change of control of 9mobile to LH Telecommunication Limited by the Corporate Affairs Commission and Nigerian Communications Commission.
Joined as defendants in the suit are Seltrix Limited, Hayatu Hassan Hadeija, Teleology Nigeria Limited, Mohammed Edewor, Emerging Markets Telecommunications Limited, CAC, NCC, LH Telecommunication Limited and General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (Rtd) (first to ninth defendants).
A counter-affidavit sworn to and filed on behalf of Seltrix Limited, Hadejia had described the plaintiff’s application as a reckless abuse of the court process.
He urged the court to dismiss the application and award substantial costs against the plaintiff.
He also demanded concrete evidence of any trusteeship arrangement involving him or Seltrix Limited concerning the alleged N43 million ordinary shares in the capital of the third defendant, Teleology Nigeria Limited, or any matter related to the suit.
Hadejia stated that the plaintiff’s motion, dated 27 January but filed on 28 January, was a fabrication designed to mislead the court.
At the resumed hearing, Michael Aôndoakaa, SAN, counsel for Teleology, 9mobile, and others, drew the court’s attention to his preliminary objections, asking the court to strike out the case for “being statute-barred” as it was filed out of the stipulated time required.
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