Benefits of 3G architecture gradual implementation into the 2G network

摘要

During the last couple of years, the whole telecom world witnessed the hype about 3rd generation of mobile networks. The industry's failure to provide mass-market handsets and reliable infrastructure on time, costly licenses and huge investments that are required from the operators along with disappointing subscriber interest, caused many operators to rethink, postpone or even drop their 3G plans. Operators have every reason to be cautious about their strategy towards deployment of 3G infrastructures, especially now when evolution with EDGE is starting to be seen as cheap and low risk path compared to UMTS. Additionally, 3G-voice service does not have significant advantages over 2G. With combined 2G/3G handsets or 3G data devices, the 3G data with mobile Internet services could be the only revenue generator in the beginning. However, 3GPP standardized architecture offers many benefits such as efficient transmission in the core network and backhaul, as well as standardization of open interfaces with concept for service environment portability across network boundaries. The article discusses the sequence of steps that mobile operators should take in order to implement parts of 3G network to have immediate benefits while utilizing existing networks. They include; design of 3G compliant transport and backhaul networks; enhancement with Wireless Softswitch for implementation of MSC functionality with decoupled switching and control; and addition of Open Services Mediation Layer that enables Virtual Home Environment (VIIE) concept, The case is elaborated from the GSM operator perspective.