Integrated open service node for active networks and services

The changing business scenario for telecommunication services requires higher levels of openness compared to current technologies. The realization of a programmable and open network intelligence fosters the transition toward an open telecom market. This extended openness is requested to allow flexible component-based service integration; extended control/management capabilities are needed for new electronic business infrastructure, more service personalization and programmability, and integration and management of heterogeneous networks (Internet/B-ISDN/mobile, etc.). We present an integrated architecture for active and programmable networks and services based on the concept of an integrated service node. We study the business point of view, the B-ISDN/ATM point of view, and the Internet point of view. Each of these technologies is supported by an adapted and adaptive service node to introduce advanced service composition, control, and management capabilities. We present a possible implementation infrastructure, and discuss related issues.