Next-Generation Packet Network Architectures with Decoupled Service Plane and Transport Plane

The emerging packet network architectures with decoupled service plane and transport plane may play a prominent role in the future. Traditional packet network architectures are primarily concerned with providing quality "pipes" (better QoS, high bandwidth, more efficient and reliable transport, etc.). The emerging architectures shift the focus towards networks that readily enable new advanced services and allow operators to have deep control over their networks. We describe related architectures with decoupled service and transport planes that are currently being addressed by various standards development organizations such as 3GPP, 3GPP2, ETSI TISPAN, ITU-T NGN, Packet Cable and MSF. We explore various issues that need to be considered with these network architectures with a focus on resource management.