NGN platforms for networked service delivery

The network infrastructure within the Access and Aggregation domains of provider networks are subject to significant changes, both in technology as well as in their business model. Recently, a number of research initiatives, most notably MUSE and PlaNetS, have promoted the development of a unified broadband access and aggregation network platform. It is based on Ethernet and features various access technologies such as DSL, WiMAX, etc. End-to-end-communication is based on IPv6, and the communication procedures within the Ethernet domain ensures, that QoS is provided and maintained for the IP-layer. Important functions to ensure the IPv6-communication with the necessary QoS-properties are implemented autonomously, e.g. the extended IEEE 802. IX AAA and the resource admission and control functions (RACF).