Introducing the GERAN flexible layer one concept

A major enhancement of GERAN is the flexible layer one (FLO) concept, due to be introduced in Release 6 of the 3GPP standards. FLO greatly simplifies the introduction of new services to the GERAN system, allowing "tailor-made" QoS provision, significantly enhancing GERAN's flexibility and ensuring that it can continue to provide services on a par with other 3G systems. Other benefits of FLO include improved link layer performance when carrying services such as voice over IP, improved multiplexing ability, and spectral efficiency. This article introduces the FLO concept, how it works, the changes it requires, and its benefits and disadvantages.