A Next Generation Network (NGN) is a packet-based network that can provide telecommunication services to users using multiple broadband and quality of service enabled transport technologies, with service functions independent of underlying technologies. NGNs provide greater flexibility of technology and services, access to new applications, and reduced costs of separate data, voice and internet services. The softswitch is the most crucial element as it supports open APIs, allowing innovation of new applications. Global regulatory issues for NGNs include interconnection, licensing, universal service obligations, and quality of service standards.

1. Next Generation Network

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

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

6. Quality of Service (QoS) Protocols Resource Reservation Protocol (RSVP) allocates network resources according to an application’s Quality of Service request, but it is subject to bandwidth management policy DiffServ network traffic is classified and network resources are allocated according to bandwidth management policy Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) allocates bandwidth management through using a network routing control according to encapsulating packet headers

7. 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

8. 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

9. Regulatory Issues NGN Sector specific regulation important for policy makers to establish an all-inclusive convergence regulation to be successful Infrastructure vs. service competition separation and market barriers being low equals increased market entry for new service providers if allowed by regulators Quality of Service (QoS) customers comprehend the QoS associated with the diverse service offerings and consumer interests are protected

10. Global Implications NGN Many countries throughout the world have made network developments on NGN a priority including: Africa Chile China France Japan Russia Saudi Arabia Sudan

11. References ITU-T’s Definition of NGN. (2004). Retrieved by January 19, 2009, from http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/ngn/definition.html Nageswara Rao, V. V. (2001). Converged networks: The future? RetrievedJanuary 19, 2009, from http://www.networkmagazineindia.com/200108/technology1.htm The Benefits of Next Generation of Networks. (2008). Retrieved January 19, 2009, from http://ngn.thus.net/benefits.aspx Wey, C., Baake, P., & Heitzler, S. (2006). Ruling the New and Emerging Markets in the Telecommunication Sector - Challenges: the emergence of next generation networks . Retrieved January 19, 2009, from http://www.itu.int/osg/spu/ngn/documents/Papers/Wey-060323-Prem-v1.1.pdf