Access networks (the ‘last-’ or ‘first-’ mile according to provider’s or customer’s perspective) represent one of the most important parts in telecommunication systems, being responsible for the high-quality, reliable and secure delivery of services to end users. They also encompass some of the mos…
Access networks (the ‘last-’ or ‘first-’ mile according to provider’s or customer’s perspective) represent one of the most important parts in telecommunication systems, being responsible for the high-quality, reliable and secure delivery of services to end users. They also encompass some of the most demanding networking problems, such as the coexistence of a large variety of technologies based on both wired and wireless solutions, the need of optimal integration with the core network in terms of bandwidth and availability mismatch, the provision of an acceptable quality of service in very different application scenarios and traffic conditions. Perhaps, the most important challenge is that the design of access networks – from the analysis of requirements to the implementation and operation of the system – can only be successful if it is based on an integrated approach, taking into account the needs of different user groups, the technical constraints posed by different application technologies, as well as the related business and societal aspects.