The barriers of GSM-WLAN Integration Program in Taiwan from a regulatory perspective

Summary form only given. Along with the aggressive development of the wireless local area network (WLAN) and cellular network, the integrated advantage of these two networks has become an inevitable development in the future. This research is based on the official reports of the GSM-WLAN project hold by NICI (National Information and Communications Initiative Committee) and attempts to observe the development of GSM-WLAN integration in Taiwan. Furthermore, we find out the current difficulties and problems including the interference of WLAN and, the access charge and certification mechanism between the wireless Internet service providers and cell phone operators. By reviewing the Jumpstart Broadband Act of the U.S on WLAN spectrum and the modus of iPass and Gric Communications, so called Internet roaming organization, on authentication, authorization, accounting and the access problems, this research would put forward some approaches. This research considers that the problem of WLAN interference could be solved multiply by technique of technology renewing, the negotiation within operators and the law modification. On the other hand, an intermedium like Internet roaming organization could be an appropriate approach to solve the authentication, authorization, accounting problems between systems. This research would finally make suggestions for the further research and formulation of government policy