-
Essay / IP Interconnect - 1330
Interconnect is an important issue because it serves to connect many clients located at home and in the office, as well as providing a valuable network for businesses. Interconnection results in end-to-end connectivity for the provision of services enabling communication. Today's telecommunications networks are moving beyond traditional PSTN to IP networks which are Next Generation Networks (NGN). These NGNs can be used to provide converged services combining voice, data and video services using the same basic hardware. Converged services are based on the innovative idea of bundling data, voice and video services, capable of increasing competition in the market. The evolution of these supreme networks and IP interconnection poses a regulatory challenge and with the FCC's involvement, it is hoped that common ground will be reached. It is imperative that the FCC take a reasoned position on IP interconnection for voice services because interconnection involves not just technical arrangements for connecting networks, but also critical regulatory policies and business decisions. With this article, I would like to provide a brief overview of IP interconnection; The factors involved in this interconnection and suggest my views on possible actions the FCC could take. Understanding Interconnect The current VoIP scenario requires conversion of IP voice signals to TDM format for use over the traditional PSTN network. Thus, interconnection between PSTN and IP is required. However, understanding the interconnection within PSTN and IP networks will provide a good idea of the interconnection requirements within each network.i) Interconnection between PSTN networksii) Interconnection between IP networks...... middle of document ...... structure.Cost factorHigh costs and capital investments for IP infrastructure were seen as a diversion from the development of broadband networks. However, the FCC itself has identified the deployment of IP networks wherever possible in its broadband plan. This should allow IP networks and broadband networks to grow together. The real diversion of valuable resources is with the now obsolete PSTN and POTS, which are declining in popularity as people turn to next-generation technology for voice services. These resources can be used for expanding broadband access and improving the quality of IP service rather than for the operation and maintenance of existing networks. Additionally, IP network providers can create new jobs and economic opportunities, generate increased revenue while providing innovative services to offset the costs incurred for its deployment..