What makes a network "next-generation?" Not simply the latest and greatest switches and routers. Telecom networks are one of the most complex systems in the world, from the core network equipment all the way out to the points of access. The ability for these providers to adapt and provision new services is now at an unprecedented level. Today's telecom providers are faced with a unique challenge: Customers expect a real-time conglomeration of services varying from basic voice to video, mobility, real-time gaming and more. These next-generation VoIP, IPTV and even IMS-based services require an infrastructure that binds disparate electronic and optical technologies and enables network operators to make the leap from segmented, ad-hoc services to providing the experiences their customers are demanding. This SearchTelecom.com E-Book examines the main infrastructure upgrades facing service providers today, in order to deliver consistently provisioned and managed services for tomorrow. Chapters include:

• Evolution of the next-generation network
• How to evaluate the potential of Carrier Ethernet
• Telecom's new necessity of delivering advanced applications
• Facing Telecoms biggest challenge of wireless and mobile broadband
• Best Practices for managing the 21st century network

By accessing this E-book, your registration information will be shared and you may be contacted by the sponsors of this E-Book: Mu Dynamics, Motorola, and Alcatel-Lucent.