Transparent IP Radio Access for Next Generation Mobile Networks

Advances in the network architecture, enhancements in the signalling protocols, provisioning of end-to-end Quality of Service (QoS), worldwide seamless mobility and flexible service provision are among the major research challenges towards next generation wireless networks. The integration and interoperability of all these technologies, along with new truly broadband wireless innovations and intelligent, user oriented services will lead towards the so called "4G" wireless networks. In this paper, we identify the key issues of an innovative transparent IP radio access system that targets 4G networks.