FLat IP Architecture

To meet customer demand for real-time data applications delivered over mobile broadband networks, wireless operators are turning to flat IP network architectures.

The key benefits of flat IP architectures are:

1. lower costs
2. reduced system latency
3. decoupled radio access and core network evolution

Key players in recognizing these advantages are:

• Mobile Networks
• 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)
• 3GPP2 standards organizations
• WiMAX Forum.

In assessing the implementation of a flat IP architecture, network operators are analyzing the strategies and product roadmaps of leading equipment suppliers. They are seeking out those looking to support operators in the move to next-generation mobile broadband.

Key considerations of Flat IP Architectures for Mobile Networks include:

• Advanced base stations that integrate radio control, header compression, encryption, call admission control, and policy enforcement with IP/Ethernet interfaces.
• Base station routers will provide simpler, lower-latency 3GPP/2 networks. Key emerging players are: Alcatel-Lucent, Airvana, and Ubiquisys.
• The Direct Tunnel Architecture is emerging as the most viable evolution path for W-CDMA macro networks. Current implementations include Nokia-Siemens's Internet High Speed Packet Access architecture and Ericsson's Serving GPRS Support Node bypass initiative.

The WiMax Access Services Network is the first standardized IP-centric mobile network architecture establishing principles now being adopted across the industry; however, vendor interoperability remains challenging

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