IMS fault localization issues and challenges

IMS defines a generic architecture and framework that enables the convergence of voice, video, data and mobile network technology over an IP-based infrastructure. The heterogeneity and complexity of IMS network will bring a number of challenges to the integration of products in mutli-vendor and multi-protocol environment. Faults in a large, multi-technology and complex network are unavoidable, but quick detection and identification can significantly improve network reliability and ensure robustness. Fault localization is the central aspect of network fault management, is a process of identifying the exact source of failure. In this paper, we overview the challenges involve for fault management in the complex, heterogeneous IMS network. The paper also proposes a distributed, multi layered, integrated and proactive fault localization system for IMS, which is based on probabilistic graphical model and can be easily integrated with eTOM's management framework.