By the end of 2007 there will be full next-generation network (NGN) standards for fixed and mobile networks allowing IP-based services to be deployed on NGNs, a process that will be largely complete by 2015 for a total cumulative investment of more than US$1 trillion, according to a new report.
Network operators are slowly beginning to roll out all-IP NGNs. The move to an IP-based infrastructure is a natural evolution for the fixed network as broadband services, including voice over IP, take over from the public switched telephone network. Mobile networks have a parallel evolution to IP at a slower pace, but the standards work is accelerating.
"As we move to the end of the decade, bandwidth-hungry services such as IPTV will need an IP infrastructure to support them. Operators will also want to control operating costs by moving all services over an IP network," said analyst Ian Cox. "This will enable deployment of service delivery platforms and IMS (IP multimedia subsystem) in the network, streamlining operations and allowing new services to be introduced quickly."
For users, NGNs provide better and more compelling services and deliver higher data rates, for video and rich voice sessions, said Cox. For operators, NGNs allow services and transport in the network to be separated and to evolve independently. This will speed up the development of content and services, to the advantage of the whole industry.
