Flat IP

Flat IP architecture identifies devices using symbolic names instead of the hierarchical network layout commonly used with IP addresses. It can be referred to as Smart IP addresses. This form of internet protocol system is of interest to mobile broadband network operators.

Flat IP architecture
To address the need for real-time data applications delivered over mobile broadband networks, wireless operators are adopting flat IP network architectures.


 * Key benefits of flat IP architectures include: :
 * Lower costs: Flat IP architectures reduce the need for specialized network hardware, such as ATM switches and MPLS routers, potentially leading to savings in capital and operating expenses.
 * Increased agility: Flat IP architectures offer greater flexibility and scalability compared to traditional hierarchical architectures, facilitating the addition of new devices and services and better adaptation to changing business needs.
 * Reduced system latency: Flat IP architectures can enhance performance for latency-sensitive applications, such as voice and video over IP, by minimizing the number of network devices that process packets.
 * Simplified management: Flat IP architectures may be easier to manage and troubleshoot than traditional hierarchical architectures due to having fewer network devices and protocols.


 * Some of the key players in recognizing these advantages include: :
 * Mobile Networks
 * 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)
 * 3GPP2 standards organizations
 * WiMAX Forum

Advanced Base Stations: These integrate radio control, header compression, encryption, call admission control, and policy enforcement with IP/Ethernet interfaces. Base station routers aim to provide simpler, lower-latency 3GPP/2 networks. Notable players in this area are: Alcatel-Lucent, Airvana, and Ubiquisys.
 * Key considerations of Flat IP Architectures for Mobile Networks include: :

Direct Tunnel Architecture: This architecture is emerging as a viable evolution path, with all major vendors currently supporting it. Direct Tunnel Architecture bypasses the SGSN on the user plane. Nokia-Siemens's Internet High-Speed Packet Access ([IHSPA]) architecture further advances this concept by removing the RNC from the data path, thereby simplifying the architecture and reducing latencies even further.

WiMax Access Services Network: This was the first standardized IP-centric mobile network architecture and established principles now being adopted across the industry. Over time, HSPA and LTE networks have become the preferred technologies for most operators.