Network Convergence
Network Convergence Definition
Network convergence refers to combining multiple communication services, like video, voice, and data, into a single network instead of using dedicated, separate networks. This creates a so-called “converged network,” which handles all these services side by side, typically over Internet Protocol (IP), dividing bandwidth and managing traffic. Convergence makes communication systems simpler, more flexible, and easier to manage.
Advantages of Network Convergence
- Convenience: Integrating multiple services on a single network makes them easier and more convenient to use.
- Flexibility: Adding new services often just means setting up software and allocating bandwidth.
- Cost efficiency: Running and maintaining one network reduces hardware and maintenance costs.
- Simpler management: Troubleshooting and monitoring can happen from a central system.
Disadvantages of Network Convergence
- Interdependence: A single issue with one element on the converged network can affect all the services on it.
- Larger attack surface: Each service adds potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
- Complex setup: Building a converged network requires careful planning so the services on the network don’t interrupt each other.
- Performance issues: Real-time services on the network, like video or voice, can lag, stutter, or glitch if bandwidth isn’t properly managed.
Network Convergence Examples
- VoIP: Apps like WhatsApp and Viber deliver audio and video calls over the internet.
- IPTV: TV channels, phone, and internet share the same broadband connection.
- Collaboration tools: Platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams combine instant messaging, video meetings, and file sharing into one app.
- Smart homes: A variety of devices can connect to the same Wi-Fi network, like security cameras, doorbells, air conditioning, or heating units.
- Modern cars: A network inside the car connects multiple elements, like its navigation, radio, rear-view cameras, and diagnostic data.
Read More
- What Is a Packet-Switched Network?
- What Is the Integrated Service Digital Network?
- What Is an IoT Gateway?
FAQ
The primary goal of network convergence is to combine different communication systems, like computer networks, phone lines, or video streams, into one single network. This makes communication systems more flexible, easier to manage, and simpler.
Network convergence lets a network carry any kind of digital information. This includes standard computer data, voice data for phone calls, live video for online meetings or security cameras, and data from smart gadgets. All these devices can connect over the same network instead of requiring a separate network for each service.
No, but they’re closely related. Network convergence is the principle of using one network for multiple services that would normally use separate networks. The Internet of Things is a network connecting a large number of smart devices, which can have very different purposes. This makes the Internet of Things a good example of a converged network.
45-Day Money-Back Guarantee