An IP Packet exchange (IPX) is a private managed network, defined by the Groupe Speciale Mobile Association (GSMA), over which service providers can offer network connectivity and service interworking on a commercial and competitive basis between not only mobile operators, but also fixed and converged service providers, cloud operators and application service providers.

A multilateral IP service hubbing arrangement enables a service provider to connect to multiple termination providers through one single connection between, facilitated by an IPX operator. What that effectively allows the service provider to do is to deliver end-to-end services to its customers without the need to establish individual bilateral connections and agreements with each of the hundreds of fixed and mobile operators around the globe. However, bilateral arrangements are also supported through an IPX, in case that particular interconnection model makes the best sense. 

With International Telecoms Week (ITW) coming up in two weeks, we’re going to hear a lot about voice (and maybe) video over IPX (VoIPX).  Why?  Well, VoIPX is nothing new really, it’s just that carriers are talking about it now since it represents a way to connect different packet networks, including LTE networks, as well as carry HD Voice.

With LTE and VoLTE proliferating, and with VoLTE increasingly meaning video in addition to voice, IPX transport  of  video also becomes increasingly important. And with LTE, there is Diameter so IPX also needs to carry Diameter and interconnect Diameter.  This could mean interconnection to different flavors of Diameter or interconnection to 3G traffic and thus SS7/Sigtran.

Since ITW is really a carrier show, it’s natural that IPX issues in general and VoIPX will be a topic of discussion there.

If you’re going to be at ITW, stop by meeting room # 4130 to learn more or to schedule a meeting, please send an email to [email protected].