Portugal-based service provider Portugal Telecom has signed an agreement with NEC to deploy software defined network (SDN) technology at its data centers and in carrier networks.

The agreement will enable both the companies to test and assess the commercial feasibility and benefits of implementing SDN for the operator's carrier data centers.

NEC will deploy its "PF series programmable flow switch and controller" SDN solution in the operator's network and test its capability to overcome economic and operational challenges within traditional architecture.