Non-stop, mobile access to Internet
Combining the speed of Wireless Local-Area Networks (WLANs) and the wide coverage of digital cellular systems is one possibility. Based on this approach, the IST project EVOLUTE (seamlEss multimedia serVices Over alL IP-based infrastrUcTurEs) has developed an all IP-based infrastructure that provides mobile Internet access and non-stop multimedia services to mobile users. The all IP-based infrastructure resolves interoperability issues between heterogeneous environments and networks. End-users can thus move between (and access) their home and office environments without any noticeable change in network performance. The EVOLUTE system allows a user to move, with as little disruption to connectivity as possible, from one WLAN to another. Seamless roaming between two types of technologies, WLANs and the third generation Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) is also made possible. This way, the system offers a low-cost, wireless broadband data solution for businesses and public bodies and can prove to be very handy in areas such as airports, shopping malls and train stations. Since the services are no longer based on a single medium but on IP, combining wireless data and mobile telephone technologies is possible. Thanks to multimedia servers, the provision of services and the provision of network infrastructures can be separated. Thus, even operators without specialisation in wireless services can enter the business by providing Wireless LAN access points. Network operators needing to own and manage only one network instead of several will save in costs on ownership and management. In addition, development of personalised communication services for tomorrow's demanding users is made possible. Without any doubt, the future of backbone networks, both for voice and data, is IP based. Enabling mobile, seamless access to IP-based applications and services will not only boost the development of new, innovative and personalised end-user services but will also provide user-friendly mobile access to the Information Society.