IP Service Provider

Description

An IP service provider, as defined in 3GPP TS 22.258 and TS 22.978, is an entity that provides IP services to users. The definition explicitly states that this entity may or may not be a network operator, and gives the example that the operator of an IMS would be considered an IP service provider. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of actors in the telecommunications and Internet ecosystem, from mobile network operators (MNOs) to over-the-top (OTT) application providers, Internet service providers (ISPs), and enterprise service providers.

The role of an IP service provider is to offer services that utilize IP bearers for transport. The IP bearer itself is typically provided by a network operator, which supplies the underlying connectivity (e.g., GPRS, LTE, 5G). The IP service provider then layers its service on top of this connectivity, using the IP addresses assigned to the user equipment to route traffic. This separation of roles allows for a vibrant ecosystem where multiple service providers can offer services over the same network infrastructure, fostering competition and innovation.

In the context of IMS, the operator of the IMS core network is an IP service provider because it provides IP-based multimedia services such as VoLTE, VoWiFi, and RCS. The IMS operator may also be the mobile network operator, but this is not necessarily the case; a third party could deploy an IMS over another operator's IP bearer. This flexibility is important for regulatory and business reasons, as it allows for different business models and service offerings.

From an architectural perspective, the IP service provider interacts with the network operator's infrastructure through well-defined interfaces. For example, in the 5G system, an IP service provider might deploy an application function (AF) that interacts with the 5G Core's policy control function (PCF) to request specific QoS for its service. The IP service provider may also have a service level agreement (SLA) with the network operator to ensure certain performance characteristics. The 3GPP specifications for the All-IP Network (AIPN) recognize the need for such interactions and define requirements for supporting multiple IP service providers.

The concept of an IP service provider is central to the modern mobile broadband experience. Users typically access services from a variety of providers, such as Google, Facebook, Netflix, and others, over their mobile connections. The network operator provides the IP bearer, while these third parties act as IP service providers. The 3GPP definitions help clarify the roles and responsibilities, which is essential for network planning, policy enforcement, and charging. For instance, the network operator may apply different charging or QoS policies for traffic from different IP service providers, based on the service requirements and business agreements.

Purpose & Motivation

The definition of an IP service provider was created to clearly identify the entity responsible for providing IP-based services, distinguishing it from the network operator that provides the underlying IP bearer. This distinction is important in an all-IP network where multiple service providers can offer services over a single network infrastructure. It allows for a clear separation of roles, which is essential for regulatory, business, and technical reasons.

Historically, mobile network operators provided all services, including voice and data, and controlled the entire value chain. With the advent of the Internet and IP-based services, third-party providers began offering services directly to users, bypassing the operator's traditional service offerings. This disintermediation created a need to define the roles of the various players. The IP service provider concept acknowledges that services can be provided by entities other than the network operator, and that the network operator's role may be limited to providing connectivity.

The definition also helps in specifying requirements for the network to support multiple IP service providers. For example, the network must be able to allocate IP addresses, manage QoS, and enforce policies for traffic from different providers. It must also support mobility and security across different providers. By defining the IP service provider, 3GPP provides a foundation for the All-IP Network architecture, where the network is a platform for a multitude of services. This has been crucial for the success of the mobile Internet and the app economy.