A radio access network for next generation wireless networks based on multi-protocol label switching and hierarchical Mobile IP

This paper presents an option for a radio access network (RAN) suitable for next generation wireless networks. The proposed RAN is based on multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) and hierarchical Mobile IP (HMIP). The methods for establishing and modifying LSPs (label switched path) in the proposed architecture are detailed and the operation of the integrated architecture is outlined. The paper explains what benefits can be expected by the use of IP and MPLS in a RAN. The combined benefits are low cost, fast deployment, scalability, reduced latency handoffs, fast table lookup, and fast switching. This type of RAN can be used in current 3G networks with additional gateway elements and can easily be used without modifications in evolved 3G and 4G networks as well.