Experimental NGN Lab Testbed for Education and Research in Next Generation Network Technologies

The main evolution trends of NGN architecture towards unified service control based on IMS principles are presented in the article. The actual implementation of NGN testbed platform including extensions and integration of application is described. We also provide an overview of the ongoing incorporation and integration of IMS core elements within the actual architecture. The existing NGN solution includes communication, collaborative community and e-leaming applications and highlights the benefits of our experience in the integration of those applications and the usability in education process. We explain also the main NGN technology issues and topics for possible future research and education activities planed for the NGN Lab testbed.