Direct signaling: a new access signaling architecture

Abstract:  Abstract In telecommunication networks, subscribers request connections and services from providers using signaling protocols. Today, the transport of signaling messages is tightly coupled with the transport of user information. As a result, subscribers receive their signaling dependent services, such as call waiting and call forwarding, from their transport providers. We propose a new access signaling architecture, called direct signaling, which allows subscribers to signal directly to service providers of their choice. Therefore, a subscriber may choose to receive transport service and signaling dependent services from different providers. The direct contact with a service provider of its choice will give subscribers access to more services in a more timely fashion. We describe how direct signaling may be accomplished in a broadband ISDN environment, and how it may be applied to cellular networks. Issues and proposed solutions for providing direct signaling service are discussed