On Telecommunication Network Management

This paper reviews some basic concepts about network management and introduces a new approach for the management of telecommunication networks, using SIS (System for the Integration of Supervision). The approach is based on the gradual integration of the existing proprietary management systems, while simultaneously moving towards the new ITU-T network management standards, namely TMN. 1 Introduction A telecommunication network can be roughly seen as a set of switches (exchanges), interconnected by a set of transmission systems. There is also an access network, which connects the user equipment (computer, telephone set, switch, etc.) to one of the system 's switches. Through the access network, users gain access to the rest of the telecommunication network. A large number of other equipment, such as rectifiers, batteries, cables, antennas and air conditioning, must also be adequately operated and maintained in order to keep the high standards of quality and reliability of the services...