Concepts, architecture, and application of NGN (1)

NGN is currently a hot topic of interest and discussion in the communication industry. network operators, equipment manufacturers, ITU, IETF, and many technology forums are paying attention to NGN, and they have successively proposed their respective ideas on NGN, depicts NGN from different perspectives. This article attempts to introduce NGN in a macroscopic and panoramic manner, including the concept of NGN, the research progress and trend of foreign research institutions, the architecture, main technologies, advantages, existing problems and application situations. The purpose is to have a comprehensive perspective when discussing issues, planning, and developing NGN networks and devices.

I. Basic concepts and features of NGN　

Next Generation Network (NGN) is a new technology. NGN is like a newborn. Although we know that it will grow up, we don't know what it will eventually look like, in addition, in the process of its growth, it will inevitably encounter one or another problems, some unexpected, and some will not. So far, no Standardization Organization or authoritative organization has put forward a strict definition of NGN.

So what is NGN?

The term NGN is a loose definition. It refers to a data-centric converged network that is different from the current generation. NGN is a broad concept that involves a variety of changes in the way networks are built.

It is generally believed that NGN is a comprehensive and open network architecture that provides voice, data, multimedia, and other services. It has the following three characteristics:

First, the next-generation network system adopts an open network architecture with the following features:

The functional modules of traditional switches are separated into independent network components, and each component can be divided into independent development based on corresponding functions.

The protocol interfaces between parts are based on the corresponding standards.

Components make the original telecom network gradually open. operators can freely combine various functional products to build the network according to their business needs. The standardization of protocol interfaces between components can enable communication between different Heterogeneous Networks.

Second, the next generation network is a business-driven network with the following features:

Separation of business and call control.

Separate call and bearer.

The goal of separation is to make the business truly independent from the network, and flexibly and effectively implement the provision of business. You can configure and define your own business features without worrying about the network type and terminal type of your business. This makes the provision of services and applications more flexible.

Third, the next generation network is a group-based network based on unified protocols.

Existing information networks, such as telecommunication networks, computer networks, and cable television networks, cannot use a network as a basic platform to develop information infrastructure. However, with the development of IP addresses in recent years, it makes people realize that telecommunications networks, computer networks, and cable TV networks will eventually be integrated into a unified IP network, the IP protocol enables various IP-based businesses to communicate with each other on different networks. For the first time, humans have a unified communication protocol that can be accepted by all three networks, the technology laid the most solid foundation for the National Information Infrastructure (NII.