Description
The Wireless Intelligent Network (WIN) is a standardized architecture that introduces intelligence into wireless networks by separating service logic from the underlying call and connection control functions. It is based on the Intelligent Network (IN) concept, adapted for the mobile environment. The core principle involves using dedicated network nodes, such as Service Control Points (SCPs), which contain the service logic, and Service Switching Points (SSPs) within the Mobile Switching Centers (MSCs) that detect service triggers and interact with the SCP. This separation allows for centralized service control and management.
Architecturally, WIN defines a set of triggers, known as Detection Points (DPs), embedded in the Basic Call State Model (BCSM) of the MSC/SSP. When a call event matches a configured trigger, the SSP suspends call processing and sends a query, typically using the ANSI-41 (or later, 3GPP2) signaling protocol, to the SCP. The SCP executes the service logic, makes decisions (e.g., checking prepaid balance, applying call screening), and returns instructions to the SSP on how to proceed with the call. This interaction is standardized through WIN protocols and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).
Key components include the SCP, SSP, Intelligent Peripheral (IP) for specialized resources like voice announcements, and the Service Management System (SMS) for provisioning. WIN supports services like Wireless Prepaid, Voice Controlled Services, Calling Name Presentation, and Location-Based Charging. Its role is to provide a flexible, vendor-independent platform for deploying value-added services without requiring extensive upgrades to every switch in the network, thereby reducing time-to-market for new offerings and enabling personalized subscriber experiences.
Purpose & Motivation
WIN was created to address the limitations of traditional wireless networks where service logic was tightly integrated and hard-coded into individual switching systems. This made introducing new services slow, expensive, and complex, as it required software upgrades on numerous network elements. The primary motivation was to enable rapid service creation and deployment in a competitive market, allowing operators to differentiate their offerings and increase Average Revenue Per User (ARPU).
Historically, it evolved from the wireline Intelligent Network (IN) standards, adapting concepts like the Intelligent Network Application Part (INAP) for the specific needs of ANSI-41/TIA/EIA-41 based North American cellular networks (AMPS, TDMA, CDMA). It solved the problem of service portability and interoperability across multi-vendor networks. By standardizing the service architecture and the interface between switching and control functions, WIN allowed operators to source service logic applications from different vendors than their switch vendors, fostering innovation and competition in the service layer.
Key Features
- Service logic separation from switching infrastructure
- Standardized trigger detection and call control model (BCSM)
- Centralized service control via Service Control Points (SCPs)
- Support for advanced services like prepaid and location-based services
- Use of Intelligent Peripherals for specialized resources
- Standardized signaling protocols (e.g., ANSI-41 WIN extensions)
Evolution Across Releases
Introduced the initial WIN architecture and capabilities for 2G/2.5G networks, primarily within the 3GPP2 context. It defined the core framework for triggering and executing intelligent network services in wireless networks, establishing the separation of service control from call switching. Key initial services included basic prepaid and freephone services.
Defining Specifications
| Specification | Title |
|---|---|
| TS 21.905 | 3GPP TS 21.905 |