21st Century Network

What is BT’s 21st century network programme?

BT is currently developing a 21st Century Network (21CN). Their aim is to create a new, state of the art network, operating with reduced costs and enables communications in a range of formats across an IP-based network. Another way to describe this is a Next Generation Network (NGN). It is a huge project and will take up to 5 years to complete. It will replace the current Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The end result for us and our customer base is that we will have an increase in speeds of Broadband, up to 24Mb (ADSL2+). This gives us increased capability for services and products, in particular telephone calls, video conferencing and downloading large files. The 2 key elements are:

• Moving from narrowband to broadband (with broadband internet on all telephone lines)
• Phone calls going over an internet connection for everyone, rather than optional extra that it currently is

Why is BT developing 21CN?

The 21CN programme has three key objectives:

• To transform the customer experience
• To increase their speed to market with new services
• To reduce costs. BT is seeking to achieve these all at the same time. Reliability and stability should increase with 21CN coming online, therefore reducing the need for engineering resource

What will the impact be on UTV I and our customers?

We are currently assessing the commercial and technical nuances of 21CN. If we switch over to this IP based telecoms network, we will be able to increase our broadband speed (up to 24Mb via ADSL 2+) and offer customers new and improved ranges of services. There are various options available to us regarding which Supplier we opt for on a Next Generation Network (NGN).

What will be different about the 21st Century Network?

Over the years BT has developed a vast range of separate products and services using different technologies as they have become available. However, these haven’t always been integrated - each has had its own systems and service support and they do not share a 'look and feel'. They are transforming these legacy networks into a simpler and more powerful single network.

This will provide a platform for a full portfolio of new services while continuing to support our traditional services. The new network will have fewer switch, hub and router components and its topology will be fashioned by advances in fibre optic technology.

How long will this network take to build?

In June 2004, BT announced a five year programme to underpin the next generation of converged, multimedia communications services. The early stages include the initial migration of PSTN to an IP network and a deep fibre trial. Existing network and systems investment is aligned to the 21CN programme.

How much will 21CN cost BT?

Capital expenditure for BTs 21CN programme will be £3billion per annum. Some two-thirds of the annual spend is directed to 21CN and other new and intermediate technologies and this proportion is expected to increase. 21CN will also cut their operational costs.

Have any areas in the UK moved onto 21CN?

A small number of people in Cardiff were switched over in November 2006 during the first trial of 21CN. More telephone numbers will be migrated onto the new network in November of 2008.

When will 21CN be rolled out to NI?

N.Ireland is due to be upgraded to the new network in 2009, with all telephone lines in the UK on 21CN by the end of 2011.

Looking to find out more?

1. Anyone with a BT Wholesale log-in can view the latest updates at www.btwholesale.com
2. An industry based site, accessible to anyone with internet access
3. A technical breakdown of 21CN can be found on wikipedia