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Nortel IMS Solution Being Tested By Verizon For Converged Multimedia Services
[December 14, 2005]

Nortel IMS Solution Being Tested By Verizon For Converged Multimedia Services


TMCnet IP Communications Columnist
 
As part of their ongoing plans to evaluate IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) technologies, Verizon’s Laboratories are testing the Nortel Networks IMS solution. The evaluation will enable Nortel’s solution to demonstrate interoperability in a multi-vendor environment with full support for voice services over fiber to the premises (FTTP).


 
The IMS architecture enables service providers and operators to offer a range of SIP-based services across packet or circuit switched networks to both fixed and wireless customers. The Nortel IMS solution features a new Call Session Controller and Home Subscriber Server (HSS) while also leveraging the company’s installed softswitch base for voice applications and gateway control. This offers a migration path for service providers to develop an all IP network and roll out enhanced services.

Verizon has deployed multiple Nortel softswitches throughout the country, and the Nortel Communications Server (CS) 2000 is part of the backbone of the Verizon nationwide packet network. The softswitches control more than 3.8 million packet trunk and line ports, and have the capacity to deliver several million more.
 
The company is introducing VoIP into the local service network as well, which will enable Verizon to offer customers network-based services to increase mobility, productivity and functionality.
 
"Verizon, which has been using Nortel's softswitch since 2001, is now beginning its evaluation of IMS compliant solutions in order to converge voice, video and multimedia services using globally standardized protocols and architecture. We are looking for open, standards-based solutions that will support rapid development of new innovative services to increase customer retention and attract new subscribers," said Mark Wegleitner, senior vice president and chief technology officer, Verizon.
 
"Nortel has always focused on protecting customers' investment, and our path to IMS is no different. We know precisely what this emerging market needs. Our IMS solution leverages more than five years of internal R&D investment in SIP, and the significant experience we have gained through deploying our SIP-based Multimedia Communications Server (MCS) 5200 in more than 40 service provider networks," said Alan Stoddard, general manager, Carrier Multimedia Networks, Nortel. "We have designed our VoIP systems to easily transition to IMS, and all of our call servers provide IP Multimedia and SIP Call Session Control."
 
Nortel’s IMS solution is being used in trials by operators in wireless and wireline markets throughout the world to enable rapid delivery of SIP-enabled enhanced services.
 
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Laura Stotler writes about IP Communications and related topics for TMCnet. She has covered VoIP and related technologies for seven years, contributing to Internet Telephony magazine and TMCnet, and as a freelance writer. To see more articles, please visit: Laura Stotler’s columnist page.

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