Multi domain network hybridation

Network hybridization is now a major opportunity made possible by the diversity of connectivity infrastructures. The coexistence of geostationary (GEO) and non-geostationary (NGSO) operators, fixed and mobile operators, as well as service providers integrating multiple connectivity technologies (e.g., satellite, cellular, and terrestrial), paves the way for new network architecture models.

This evolution is also facilitated by the diversity of network interfaces available on both the user side and the infrastructure side, enabling the simultaneous or alternating use of multiple access methods. In this context, network hybridization emerges as a key driver for improving the performance, resilience, and flexibility of digital services.

Network hybridization aims to enable a connection to exchange data (which may be multimedia) between two remote users by using different paths within the network, either simultaneously or not. Defining multiple paths within a telecommunications infrastructure can be done at various levels of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Regardless of the level at which network hybridization is implemented, it can raise significant challenges related to interoperability and the need for common standards.

This article presents the challenges associated with the introduction of multi-domain hybridization, outlining various technical approaches that enable the implementation of this type of network service. The article also identifies converged architectures capable of supporting different multi-domain hybridization scenarios.

This article is structured as follows:

• in § 1 , the needs addressed by network hybridization and the associated challenges are outlined;

• in § 2