In the past, proprietary hardware and software were commonplace in communications infrastructure, but times have changed. In recent years Network Equipment Providers (NEPs) and Telecom companies have taken a new approach in how they develop their applications. Today, these companies turn to Linux and open source software as their development platform of choice. Why? Because Linux and open source software provide the reliability, high availability, security, and compliance required for carrier grade applications at a lower overall cost, while enabling next generation wireless networks.