Interconnection - what is it?
Interconnection is an area of significant
focus in the telecommunications sector today, particularly as markets
liberalise and new entrants find a need to interconnect their networks
with the networks of former incumbent operators (vertically integrated
telcos) and also with the networks of other new entrants (Alternative
Network Operators [AltNets]). Interconnection is equally important across
all sectors - fixed line - mobile - wireless - and Internet (data) networks.
Interconnection and its availability
to all authorised telecommunications operators on a fair, equitable
and proportionate basis is a central plank of the World Trade Organisation
(WTO) Basic Telecommunications Accord (BTA).
The WTO-BTA has been signed by over
70 nations that collectively represent just over 90% of global telecomm
revenues. The BTA sets the scene for 'trade in telecommunications' and
is underpinned by various ITU initiatives aimed at facilitating the
transition from closed monopoly markets with restricted access, to open
competitive markets which are non-discriminatory, transparent, fair
and equitable.
Interconnection
- Definition
"Interconnection"
is the physical and logical linking of telecommunications networks used
by the same or a different organisation in order to allow the users
of one organisation to communicate with users of the same or another
organisation, or to access services provided by another organisation.
Services may be provided by the parties involved or other parties who
have access to the network.
Please now click on "Introduction
to Interconnection" for a quick tour of the wider world of
interconnect which embraces voice, data and Internet. 
