Converged fixed and mobile broadband networks based on next generation point of presence

To achieve a joint optimization of fixed and mobile networks, we propose a new broadband network architecture organized around the innovative concept of Next Generation Point of Presence (NG-POP). NG-POP targets a disruptive evolution of the first aggregation node, also called Central Office (CO), or Local POP by opposition to more centralized POPs. It will allow both a better distribution of all essential functions of fixed and mobile networks (functional convergence) and a better mutualisation of fixed and mobile equipment and infrastructures (structural convergence). This paper presents the main ideas related to functional and structural convergence and illustrates the benefits expected from the underlying NG-POP concept for future converged fixed and mobile networks. The architectural concepts presented in this paper will be assessed in details in European large scale integrating project COMBO (COnvergence of fixed and Mobile BrOadband access/aggregation networks).