IMS Network Architecture

There is a rapid growth and evolution in the area of telecommunications and network operators are expected to provide seamless integration of all communication applications on a single system. In these circumstances IMS has emerged out as a key player. IMS is basically a network architecture consisting of an IP-based core network connected to multiple access networks to provide a converged service to wireless,wireline and cable subscribers. IMS has established itself as a foundation for future wireless and wireline convergence. It provides an opportunity to build an open IP based service platform that will enable an easy and efficient deployment of new multimedia communication services mixing telecom and data services. One thing which really makes a difference is that a common IMS based service platform can be used to serve various access mechanisms such as WiMAX, WiFi, UMTS,GSM, CDMA etc. IMS fills the gap between two of the most successful communication paradigm cellular and internet technology. This paper surveys the IMS network architecture and how its various components interact with each other.