Fixed and Mobile Convergence: Needs and Solutions

The drivers of Fixed and Mobile Convergence (FMC) are discussed. A reference framework for FMC proposed by European project COMBO is then presented. Some use cases of FMC are described, showing the needs for mutualization and convergence of fixed and mobile broadband networks. Five network scenarios providing technical solutions to FMC use cases are proposed. They target an optimal and seamless quality of experience for the end user together with an optimized network infrastructure ensuring increased performance, flexibility, reduced cost and reduced energy consumption.