Intelligent Network (IN) is a technology designed to enable network operators to differentiate themselves in the telecommunications marketplace by implementing services more quickly and to give customers more control over the services they use. It focuses on separating service logic from switching equipment, allowing new services to be added without having to redesign switching equipment.
History of the Origin of Intelligent Network and the First Mention of It
The concept of Intelligent Network dates back to the early 1980s when the telecommunications industry saw a need for a more flexible and standardized way to develop and deploy services. Bell Communications Research (Bellcore) played a significant role in developing the IN standards that allowed various new services like 1-800 numbers and call forwarding to become widespread.
Detailed Information About Intelligent Network
The Intelligent Network comprises various interconnected components designed to support services across different switching systems. It enables telecom providers to innovate new services without needing to modify the underlying network. The main components include:
- Service Switching Points (SSPs): They detect and route calls that need special service handling.
- Service Control Points (SCPs): These are databases that contain the logic to process the specialized calls.
- Service Data Points (SDPs): They store the data required by the SCPs to make service decisions.
- Intelligent Peripherals (IPs): These provide functions like speech recognition and specialized call announcements.
The Internal Structure of the Intelligent Network and How It Works
Intelligent Network operates by dividing tasks between various functional entities and standardizing the protocols between them.
- Call Handling: SSPs detect the need for a special call handling and query SCP for instructions.
- Service Logic Execution: SCPs execute the service logic and provide instructions to the SSPs.
- Data Management: SDPs store customer profiles, subscription details, and service logic data.
- Additional Functions: IPs provide added functionalities like voice guidance, fax handling, etc.
Analysis of the Key Features of Intelligent Network
- Modularity: Separation of basic switching from service logic.
- Standardization: Common standards allow interoperability between different vendors.
- Scalability: Easily adaptable to changes in scale or complexity.
- Rapid Service Deployment: New services can be implemented quickly.
Types of Intelligent Network
The following table illustrates the categories of Intelligent Network based on functionality and implementation:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Basic IN | Initial architecture, limited functionality |
| Core IN | Expanded, standardized across vendors |
| Advanced IN | Supports complex services and integration |
Ways to Use Intelligent Network, Problems and Their Solutions
Usage:
- Customer Service Enhancement
- Billing Systems
- Fraud Detection
- Network Management
Problems and Solutions:
- Security Concerns: Encryption, access controls.
- Interoperability Issues: Adherence to standards.
- Scalability Challenges: Modular design, proper planning.
Main Characteristics and Other Comparisons with Similar Terms
Here’s a comparison table with similar network architectures:
| Term | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Intelligent Network | Modular, Scalable, Standardized |
| Traditional Network | Fixed, Monolithic, Less flexible |
| Next Generation Network | IP-based, Integration of voice, data, and multimedia |
Perspectives and Technologies of the Future Related to Intelligent Network
Intelligent Network technology is expected to evolve with:
- Integration with cloud computing
- Use of AI and Machine Learning
- Enhanced security measures
- Support for IoT devices
How Proxy Servers Can Be Used or Associated with Intelligent Network
Proxy servers like those provided by OneProxy can be integrated with Intelligent Network to enhance security, load balancing, and control over traffic. They can also assist in anonymity, caching, and efficient network resource utilization.
Related Links
- Bell Communications Research on Intelligent Network
- ITU’s documentation on Intelligent Network
- OneProxy’s official website
These resources provide detailed insights into the development, structure, and future prospects of Intelligent Network technology.
