In terms of planning and implementing next generation networks (NGN), the same problems and uncertainties are being faced in Switzerland as in Europe. This finding is the result of two surveys conducted by OFCOM with Swiss operators and European regulators. Migration to these networks, which is necessary to overcome the technological limitations of current networks and to meet the growing demand for bandwidth as well as new services, is coming up against financial and technological difficulties and will require a transitional period of 5 years or more.
For the purposes of the ITU, Next Generation Networks are defined as packet-based networks able to provide telecommunication services, making use of multiple broadband, QoS-enabled transport technologies and in which service-related functions are independent from underlying transport-related technologies. It offers unfettered access by users to different service providers. It supports generalised mobility which will allow consistent and ubiquitous provision of services to users.
Workshop
As part of the studies of Next Generation Networks, on the 5th September, OFCOM organised a workshop with various operators and manufacturers. The presentations given at the workshop are available below.
Last modification 14.10.2010
