Core Network Planning and Optimisation

Core network planning in GSM consists of network elements such as MSC, VLR, HLR, AC, and EIR. The core network planning process is slightly different from the radio or transmission network planning process. Network analysis; network dimensioning; and detailed planning are the steps involved in network planning. The intelligent network concept in the core network permits services to be introduced in a network in a more cost-effective way. A small failure in the core network may lead to a large part of the radio network becoming non-functional leading to huge revenue losses. Thus, protection of the network becomes an inseparable and important part of core network planning. Detailed planning of a core network generally consists of signalling plans, routing plans, numbering and charging plans, DCN settings, synchronisation plans, and so on. Core network optimisation focuses on both switch and signalling network optimisation.