Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation

 

Customer Center

Frequently Asked Questions

SMART Network: FAQs

Click on a question below to view the answer:
What network providers are available for connectivity to DTCC?
  • DTCC's managed SMART network (encrypted, dedicated)
  • DTCC's managed SMART/Dial network (low speed dialup and VPN access)
  • BT Radianz (encrypted, dedicated)
  • NYSE SFTI (non-encrypted. Direct or via Extranets)
  • SWIFT managed service
Can I reach all of the DTCC business lines from all of the networks described above?
All of the DTCC business applications are reachable from these networks, with the exception of Omgeo, which is reachable only from the SMART network.
What does a standard network connection consist of?
  • Dedicated telecommunications line (ex. MPLS based T1)
  • Backup line (either second dedicated or broadband)
  • ISDN is available for low speed clients if broadband does not exist
  • Network equipment (router, CSU, modem, encryption appliance (BTR Only)
  • Out of Band dial up line for SMART management
  • BT Radianz: Consists of two T-1's lines, dual hardware (routers, switches, net screen appliance for encryption)
  • SWIFT: Consists of two redundant circuits at each site utilizing diverse carriers (AT&T and Orange).
Does a firm have to order a backup circuit at each site if they maintain two separate datacenters?
If the firm maintains two active sites that can be used to provide an always on connection/hot standby between DTCC and their systems, and the firm successfully tests all production DTCC applications from each site, then a single MPLS connection per site is acceptable. That said, a broadband circuit is still included at each site.
If a DTCC Broadband connection is not available at my site what are my options?
The backup circuit may consist of a second dedicated MPLS backup circuit of equal bandwidth. This should utilize a different Telco carrier than the primary circuit.
If I have Telco services in my location, such as Sonet or Alternate Serving Wire Centers (ASWC), can DTCC's connection take advantage of it?
Yes, DTCC commonly uses special access facilities, owned or provided by the client to enhance the local access. This requires a simple Letter of Agency (LOA) with a Customer Facility Assignment (CFA) to be completed with the Carrier.
Will carrier diversity be considered when ordering two circuits?
When a customer orders two circuits we look to ensure we implement carrier diversity on the premise that the site supports this scenario. The diversity would be between AT&T and Verizon business.
Is a second Backup Site recommended?
  • Yes, it is recommended that DTCC clients maintain processing capabilities at a secondary site or at a disaster recovery location for critical applications.
  • This site will have similar connectivity as described above.
Where should the secondary site be located?
  • Industry standard best practices suggest that a secondary site be (at a minimum) geographically distant from the primary site such that it’s located on a separate power grid from the primary site. Other factors such as protection from extreme weather conditions or localized outages should also be considered.
  • Secondary sites will be provisioned using the same network platform as the primary site. (i.e. SMART, BT Radianz, or NYSE SFTI). Alternate telco carriers will be used whenever available.
How do I test that secondary site?
  • Certain firms are required to test yearly and you will be notified by DTCC. DTCC's IT Infrastructure group will assist in scheduling and conducting the disaster recovery test. Where possible, it is recommended that the client conduct an actual production business day from that location.
  • To schedule testing contact Customer support at 888-382-2721 Option 5, Option 4.
If I decide to relocate my equipment or move to a new location, whom do I contact?
In the event you plan on moving your equipment or facility, please contact our Service Activation Group at 1.888.382.2721 option 5, 4. They will guide you through the process of ordering new circuits and the migration of your SMART services to your new facility.
How do I facilitate the installation of a circuit(s) at my co-location or (unmanned) site(s)?

Typically, Co-locations have restrictive access requirements for carriers. Some require the name of the technician and the time of day that they will arrive. Be advised that these restrictions are not compliant with standard carrier installations and can cause delays and rework for DTCC if not properly planned. It is the responsibility of the customer to obtain detailed information from the carrier or work around the Co-locations restrictions with the Co-location account manager.

In addition, carriers do not issue LOA/CFA for circuits installed. The demark is provided to DTCC in standard carrier form from the carrier. DTCC will create the LOA/CFA and provide to the customer. The customer will then provide the LOA/CFA to the in house vendor who will cross connect from the demark to the customer's point-of-presence at any co-location, including private premises.

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