Alcatel-Lucent pushes LTE with Evolved Packet Core

Evolved Packet Core is designed to help operators cope with high-bandwidth web services

Networking firm Alcatel-Lucent has introduced its Evolved Packet Core (EPC) aimed at mobile operators moving to Long Term Evolution (LTE).

The all-IP portfolio is designed to assist operators looking to implement the next-generation LTE mobile broadband platform in an attempt to cope with the growing demand for high-bandwidth, multimedia and web services from mobile users.

"The move to LTE is one of the most critical network transformations we will see within the next five to 10 years," said Basil Alwan, president of Alcatel-Lucent's IP activities.

"Consumers are now using their wireless devices for more sophisticated broadband applications, and mobile operators have recognised that a new IP network architecture is required to meet the resulting demands."

EPC builds on Alcatel-Lucent's experience in wired and wireless networks and IP service routing to provide what the company claims is an end-to-end LTE system.

Stephane Teral, principal analyst for mobile and fixed-mobile convergence infrastructure at research firm Infonetics, suggested that EPC plays a "pivotal role in enabling operators who move to LTE to meet the significant market expectations for better service at lower cost".

"The industry is moving to IP, and ultimately to bridging the mobile and fixed networks, which gives Alcatel-Lucent a clear advantage given that it has the largest fixed-line footprint in the world, demonstrated IP leadership, and a solid heritage in wireless," he said.

EPC incorporates four elements: Mobility Management Entity and Dynamic Services Controller, both of which manage dynamic mobility and policy; and Serving Gateway and Packet Data Network Gateway, which are implemented as plug-in hardware and software modules for the Alcatel-Lucent 7750 Service Router.

The 7750 allows operators to deploy a single router that supports 2G, 3G and LTE, as well as wired networks.

EPC also integrates with the Alcatel-Lucent Mobile Evolution Transport Architecture, providing a smooth all-IP migration path to LTE technologies in both the transport and core networks, according to the company.