The move to Next-Generation networks

One answer is the adoption of LTE for mobile operators, which is IP-based and addresses many of the challenges that operators were facing with legacy networks. However, this journey is not without its challenges, as operators need to adopt an all-IP mindset but not lose sight of where they have been. In addition to LTE, operators are turning towards IMS as one of the key enabling technologies to leverage and deliver services across the network, independent of the access architectures. To this degree, IMS defines a complete architecture and framework that enables the convergence of voice, video and data over an IP-based infrastructure. With IMS at its core, next-generation networks are quickly moving away from the ‘silo’ technologies of the past, towards the flatter, more efficient network of the future.

Despite the challenges, the migration to next-generation all-IP networks is underway and will continue to progress. Operators favour all-IP networks as they can reduce network complexity, CAPEX investment and overall service and maintenance. As operators have witnessed the continuing disparity between traffic growth and revenue, next-generation networks based on all-IP technologies provides the necessary platform and economies-of-scale for operators to fight back and take advantage of their position in the overall ecosystem. As all-IP networks begin to provide innovative new mobile broadband services, customer expectations will also no doubt begin to change; operators will need to be aware and ready to react to take advantage of the opportunities as they present.

If this abstract has piqued your interest, read the full article online in the August issue of Electronic Specifier Design, by clicking here.