B3P1 Flashcards
What is Public switched telecommunications network (PSTN)
Carries data traffic and telephony from many access networks
Referred to as legacy network
Wide geographical covered through hierarchical system of exchanges
Each user is connected to exchange via PSTN access network which incorporates DSL
What is the DSLAM
DSLAM digital subscriber line access multiplier - The device in a telephone exchange that multiplexes DSL signals from several local loops onto a high-speed line, traditionally regarded as the demarcation between the access network and the core network. Increasingly the DSLAM is being replaced by a multi-service access node (MSAN).
What is MSAN
The device in a telephone exchange or roadside cabinet that forms an interface between the access network and the core network. It can handle traffic from a variety of traffic types, and is replacing the DSLAM.
What is Broadband remote access server BRAS
A server, typically operated by an internet service provider, which aggregates data packets for forwarding towards the destination. The BRAS terminates the broadband connection, allowing the data packets to be extracted and forwarded.
What is meant by Mulitprotocol label switching (MPLS)
Hybrid of the previous non-IP core (but packet-based) core and an IP core
What are the benefits of MPLS
QoS – differentiation of traffic
Fast forwarding of packets resulting in use of labels
Create of VPN and VOIP
Traffic engineering, such things as reserving capacity for particular forms of traffice
What is the core network
A high-speed communications trunk network, served by access networks. Core networks are found in the public switched telecommunications network (PSTN), as well as competing networks, such as those owned by mobile communications operators.
What is the access network
The communications network that links end-users’ equipment to the core network. The access network is analogous to the minor roads that give access to motorways and other trunk routes.
