What is TISPAN Telecommunications and Internet converged

TISPAN: Bridging the Gap Between Telecom and Internet

TISPAN (Telecoms & Internet converged Services and Protocols for Advanced Networks) was a standardization body within the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). It played a significant role in the development of standards for fixed network convergence, specifically focusing on integrating telecommunication services and internet protocols on a common infrastructure.

Understanding Fixed Network Convergence:

Traditionally, telecommunication services like voice calls and fax relied on dedicated infrastructure distinct from the internet. Fixed network convergence aims to merge these services onto a single, unified network based on internet protocols (IP). This convergence offers several benefits:

• Improved Efficiency: Utilizing a single network infrastructure reduces operational costs for service providers.
• Enhanced Services: Convergence enables the development of new services that combine voice, data, and multimedia capabilities.
• Flexibility: An IP-based network offers greater flexibility for scaling and supporting diverse applications.

TISPAN's Role in Convergence:

Formed in 2003 through the merger of two ETSI bodies, TISPAN played a crucial role in defining standards for fixed network convergence. Here are some key aspects of its work:

• NGN (Next Generation Network) Architecture: TISPAN developed the architecture for Next Generation Networks (NGN), which are IP-based networks designed to support a wide range of converged services.
• Standardized Protocols: TISPAN defined standards for protocols and functionalities needed for integrating telecommunication services with internet protocols. This included protocols for resource management, call signaling, and security.
• Focus on Fixed Networks: Unlike mobile network convergence efforts, TISPAN's primary focus was on fixed networks, such as those utilizing DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) and fiber optic technologies.

Key Technologies and Protocols:

• IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS): TISPAN leveraged the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) IMS architecture, adapting it for use in fixed networks. IMS provides a framework for delivering multimedia services like voice over IP (VoIP) and video calls over an IP network.
• Resource and Admission Control (RACS): TISPAN defined protocols for managing network resources and ensuring Quality of Service (QoS) for different types of converged services.
• Network Attachment Subsystem (NASS): This subsystem facilitated the connection of customer premises equipment (CPE) to the NGN, enabling devices like telephones and internet routers to work seamlessly on the converged network.

Current Status of TISPAN:

• TISPAN's activities have been discontinued. Its work on NGN standards has been largely completed, and the fixed network convergence landscape has matured significantly.
• However, the standards developed by TISPAN remain relevant and continue to be used in fixed network infrastructure deployments. These standards provide the foundation for converged services like VoIP, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television), and integrated data and voice communication solutions.

Conclusion:

TISPAN played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of fixed network convergence. By establishing standards for integrating telecommunication services and internet protocols, TISPAN paved the way for the development of advanced communication networks that support a wide range of converged services we experience today. While its activities have ceased, the legacy of TISPAN's work continues to influence the design and operation of modern fixed network infrastructures.