Next Generation Network

Definition
A Next Generation Network (NGN) is a packet-based network able to provide Telecommunication Services to users and able to make use of multiple broadband, QoS-enabled transport technologies and in which service-related functions are independent of the underlying transport-related technologies.

Three Principle Benefits of Next Generation Network

Greater flexibility, in terms of the technology and services offered Access to a wide range of new applications specific to next generation networks Significant reduction the cost of running and maintaining separate date, voice, and Internet services.

Softswitch
The most crucial element of the Next Generation Network Supports Open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) Due to the open APIs, it allows service providers and third-party developers to innovate new applications

Softswitch

Softswitch = Open APIs Open APIs = Programmable Network Programmable Network = Easier Bandwidth Changes

Quality of Service (QoS) Protocols

Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP)

DiffServ

allocates network resources according to an applications Quality of Service request, but it is subject to bandwidth management policy network traffic is classified and network resources are allocated according to bandwidth management policy
allocates bandwidth management through using a network routing control according to encapsulating packet headers

Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS)

Companies Delivering NGN

BSNL and Tata Communications

Indian companies that have led the way in implementing NGN voice trunking networks moderately earlier as compared to their telecom counterparts

Cisco and Itatel

providing an evolutionary path for traditional voice network providers to upgrade their network

Regulatory Issues NGN

Interconnection
refers to the new types of products that will be used to connect packet switching services

Licensing
the licensing organization needs to stay neutral to maintain a competitive environment between different infrastructures offering Next Generation Services

Universal service
recreate universal service obligations from offering a particular service to offering network access with a specified minimum capacity and quality