The ITU-T states that a Next Generation Network (NGN) is
a packet-based network that can provide telecommunication
services using multiple broadband QoS-enabled transport technologies
in which service-related functions are independent of the
underlying transport-related technologies. The figure below
highlights the architectural differences between a traditional
network architecture (left) and an NGN (right).
NGN enables unfettered access to networks and to competing
service providers and services of choice. It supports generalized
mobility, which permits consistent and ubiquitous provision
of services to users.
The following characteristics are fundamental to Next Generation
Networking:
 |
Packet-based data transfer |
|
Separate control functions for bearer capabilities,
calls/sessions and applications/services |
|
De-coupling of service provision from the network, and provision of open interfaces |
|
Support for a wide range of service applications
and mechanisms based on service building blocks (including
real-time/streaming/non-real-time services and multi-media) |
|
Broadband capabilities with end-to-end QoS and transparency |
|
Interworking with legacy networks via open interfaces |
|
Generalized mobility |
|
Unfettered access by users to different service providers |
|
A variety of identification schemes that
can be resolved to IP addresses for the purposes of routing
in IP networks |
|
Unified service characteristics for the same service as perceived
by the user |
|
Converged services between Fixed and Mobile networks |
|
Independence of service-related functions from underlying
transport technologies |
|
Support of multiple last mile technologies |
|
Compliant with all Regulatory requirements
(e.g. concerning emergency communications and security/privacy,
etc.) |
