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Flat IP is a network addressing scheme in which each device is assigned a unique identifier within a non-hierarchical address space. Unlike hierarchical IP addressing methods, Flat IP treats all devices as equal nodes, simplifying routing by eliminating the need for structured subnetting.

Flat IP is commonly applied in mobile networks, particularly in LTE, due to its efficiency in managing device handovers between network cells. The approach allows each device to be directly accessed through its unique identifier, improving routing efficiency and reducing latency in mobile environments.

While Flat IP may streamline network design for certain applications, it can present scalability challenges in larger networks. The scheme requires a substantial pool of unique identifiers and lacks a structured hierarchy, potentially reducing efficiency for large-scale networks compared to traditional IP models. Nonetheless, Flat IP is a practical choice in scenarios where simplicity and direct device access are priorities.

Flat IP architecture

This architecture is suitable for small businesses, home networks, and mobile broadband network operators because it simplifies network management and provides a direct link for real-time data applications.^[1]

Overview

Wireless operators use Flat IP architecture to address the growing need for real-time data applications delivered over mobile broadband networks. This approach moves away from traditional hierarchical network designs, favoring a simplified, horizontal structure.

Benefits of Flat IP Architecture

Flat IP architectures offer several advantages, including:

Cost Efficiency: Flat IP networks reduce reliance on specialized network hardware, such as ATM switches and MPLS routers, by utilizing a single level of communication. This approach lowers both hardware and maintenance costs.
Improved Scalability and Flexibility: The absence of hierarchical layers simplifies the integration of new devices and services, benefiting mobile network operators in rapidly changing technological environments.
Reduced Latency: By minimizing network layers and simplifying packet processing, flat IP architectures support latency-sensitive applications, such as Voice over IP (VoIP) and video streaming.^[1]

In mobile networks, centralized anchors act as performance bottlenecks. Flat, distributed architectures avoid this by not having centralized components, thereby reducing latency and allowing for scalability and flexibility.^[2]

Drawbacks and Challenges

Despite their benefits, Flat IP architectures present several challenges:

Lack of Redundancy: Flat networks rely on a single switch or point of failure, making them vulnerable to outages if that switch fails.
Difficult Troubleshooting: The simplicity of flat networks can complicate troubleshooting. With fewer hierarchical layers to isolate issues, identifying the root cause of network problems can be time-consuming.
Increased Security Risks: Flat networks are more vulnerable to lateral attacks, where malware or intrusions can spread quickly between devices without traditional segmentation.

Use Cases of Flat IP Architecture

Flat IP architecture is particularly relevant to mobile networks and is supported by several industry standards organizations, including:

3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) and 3GPP2: These organizations develop global standards for mobile telecommunication systems and have adopted flat IP principles in their network designs.
WiMAX Forum: The WiMAX Forum, responsible for promoting and certifying wireless broadband technologies, was one of the early adopters of IP-centric mobile networks.

Key Considerations for Mobile Networks

In mobile networks, flat IP architectures integrate the following components:^[3]

Advanced Base Stations: Modern base stations in flat IP networks handle multiple functions, including radio control, header compression, encryption, call admission control, and policy enforcement. These stations often use IP/Ethernet interfaces to simplify network architecture and reduce latency.
Direct Tunnel Architecture: In this configuration, user data bypasses the Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) on the user plane. Direct Tunnel Architecture, supported by major vendors, reduces latency and complexity. Nokia-Siemens' Internet High-Speed Packet Access (IHSPA) takes this further by removing the Radio Network Controller (RNC) from the data path, resulting in even lower latencies.
WiMAX Access Services Network (ASN): WiMAX was the first standardized IP-centric mobile network architecture. Although HSPA and LTE networks have since become dominant, many principles from WiMAX ASN remain relevant in modern mobile networks.

References

^ ^a ^b Tripathy, Susnigdha (2023-02-21). "What Is a Flat Network? Definition, Benefits & How It Works". Enterprise Networking Planet. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
^ Bokor, László; Faigl, Zoltán; Imre, Sándor (2011). Flat Architectures: Towards Scalable Future Internet Mobility. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. ISBN 978-3-642-20898-0. Retrieved 25 November 2024.
^ "What Is A Flat Network? - ITU Online". 2024-06-11. Retrieved 2024-09-26.

[:0-1] Tripathy, Susnigdha (2023-02-21). "What Is a Flat Network? Definition, Benefits & How It Works". Enterprise Networking Planet. Retrieved 2024-09-26.

[2] Bokor, László; Faigl, Zoltán; Imre, Sándor (2011). Flat Architectures: Towards Scalable Future Internet Mobility. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. ISBN 978-3-642-20898-0. Retrieved 25 November 2024.

[3] "What Is A Flat Network? - ITU Online". 2024-06-11. Retrieved 2024-09-26.

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[2]

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
+{{Short description|IP network architecture}}
-{{Multiple issues|wikify =December 2009|unreferenced =August 2010}}
+{{Multiple issues|{{refimprove|date=August 2010}}
-'''Flat IP''' architecture provides a way to identify devices using symbolic names, unlike the [[hierarchy|hierarchical]] architecture such as that used in "normal" [[IP address]]es. This form of system is of more interest to mobile broadband network operators.
+{{peacock|date=August 2011}}}}
+'''Flat IP''' is a [[Network address|network addressing]] scheme in which each device is assigned a [[unique identifier]] within a non-hierarchical address space. Unlike [[Hierarchical internetworking model|hierarchical IP]] addressing methods, Flat IP treats all devices as equal nodes, simplifying routing by eliminating the need for structured [[Subnet|subnetting]].
+Flat IP is commonly applied in [[Mobile network|mobile networks]], particularly in [[LTE (telecommunication)|LTE]], due to its efficiency in managing device handovers between network cells. The approach allows each device to be directly accessed through its unique identifier, improving routing efficiency and reducing [[Latency (engineering)|latency]] in mobile environments.
-== Flat IP Architectures in Mobile Networks: From 3G to LTE ==
-Wireless networks are defined in terms of generations of radio technology and how over-the-air data rates affect and enable end-user applications. Now with radio access data rates increasing, the capabilities of the supporting wired network elements – radio controllers, packet gateways, transmission, and the IP core – are equally critical to network performance.
+While Flat IP may streamline network design for certain applications, it can present [[scalability]] challenges in larger networks. The scheme requires a substantial pool of unique identifiers and lacks a [[Hierarchy|structured hierarchy]], potentially reducing efficiency for large-scale networks compared to traditional [[Internet protocol suite|IP models.]] Nonetheless, Flat IP is a practical choice in scenarios where simplicity and direct device access are priorities.
-Nowhere is this seen more clearly than in mobile data services. The emergence of 3G High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), [[ HSPA+]] and next-generation [[3GPP Long Term Evolution|LTE]] (a.k.a. 4G) access, is enabling an entire new class of mobile broadband services and generating traffic volumes that are unsustainable using the classic hierarchical network architectures originally designed for mobile voice and low-speed data.
+==Flat IP architecture==
-To efficiently deliver mobile broadband services, operators require a network infrastructure that simultaneously provides lower costs, lower latency, and greater flexibility. The key to achieving this goal is the adoption of flat, all-IP network architectures. With the shift to flat IP architectures, mobile operators:
+This [[Computer architecture|architecture]] is suitable for small businesses, home networks, and mobile broadband network operators because it simplifies [[Network monitoring|network management]] and provides a direct link for real-time data applications.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Tripathy |first=Susnigdha |date=2023-02-21 |title=What Is a Flat Network? Definition, Benefits & How It Works |url=https://www.enterprisenetworkingplanet.com/management/the-risks-and-rewards-of-flat-networks/ |access-date=2024-09-26 |website=Enterprise Networking Planet |language=en-US}}</ref>
-# Reduce the number of network elements in the data path to lower operations costs and capital expenditure
-# Partially decouple the cost of delivering service from the volume of data transmitted to align infrastructure capabilities with emerging application requirements
-# Minimize system latency and enable applications with a lower tolerance for delay; upcoming latency enhancements on the radio link can also be fully realized
-# Evolve radio access and packet core networks independently of each other to a greater extent than in the past, creating greater flexibility in network planning and deployment
-# Develop a flexible core network that can serve as the basis for service innovation across both mobile and generic IP access networks
-# Create a platform that will enable mobile broadband operators to be competitive, from a price/performance perspective, with wired networks
+=== Overview ===
-== Flat IP Architectures in Mobile Networks ==
+Wireless operators use Flat IP architecture to address the growing need for real-time data applications delivered over mobile broadband networks. This approach moves away from traditional [[Hierarchy|hierarchical]] network designs, favoring a simplified, horizontal structure.
-From 3G to LTE examines network architecture evolution in response to rapidly growing 3G data traffic and the planned introduction of Long Term Evolution (LTE) and System Architecture Evolution (SAE) technology – now also known as Enhanced UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) and Evolved Packet Core (EPC), respectively – in the 2010 to 2012 time frame. The report focuses on the Third Generation Partnership (3GPP) technology track and specifically on the network elements that make up flat radio access networks (RANs) and the next-generation mobile packet core.
-== Flat IP Architecture ==
+=== Benefits of Flat IP Architecture ===
+Flat IP architectures offer several advantages, including:
-To meet customer demand for real-time data applications delivered over mobile broadband networks, wireless operators are turning to flat IP network architectures.
+# Cost Efficiency: Flat IP networks reduce reliance on specialized network hardware, such as ATM switches and [[Multiprotocol Label Switching|MPLS routers]], by utilizing a single level of communication. This approach lowers both hardware and maintenance costs.
-;The key benefits of flat IP architectures are:
+# Improved Scalability and Flexibility: The absence of hierarchical layers simplifies the integration of new devices and services, benefiting mobile network operators in rapidly changing technological environments.
-*lower costs
+# Reduced Latency: By minimizing network layers and simplifying packet processing, flat IP architectures support latency-sensitive applications, such as Voice over IP (VoIP) and video streaming.<ref name=":0" />
-*reduced system latency
-*decoupled radio access and core network evolution
+In mobile networks, centralized anchors act as performance bottlenecks. Flat, distributed architectures avoid this by not having centralized components, thereby reducing latency and allowing for scalability and flexibility.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Bokor |first1=László |last2=Faigl |first2=Zoltán |last3=Imre |first3=Sándor |title=Flat Architectures: Towards Scalable Future Internet Mobility |date=2011 |publisher=Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg |isbn=978-3-642-20898-0 |url=https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-20898-0_3 |access-date=25 November 2024 |ref=flat_arch}}</ref>
-;Key players in recognizing these advantages are:
-*Mobile Networks
-*3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)
-*3GPP2 standards organizations
-*WiMAX Forum.
-In assessing the implementation of a flat IP architecture, network operators are analyzing the strategies and product roadmaps of leading equipment suppliers. They are seeking out those looking to support operators in the move to next-generation mobile broadband.
+=== Drawbacks and Challenges ===
-;Key considerations of Flat IP Architectures for Mobile Networks include:
+Despite their benefits, Flat IP architectures present several challenges:
-Advanced base stations that integrate radio control, header compression, encryption, call admission control, and policy enforcement with IP/Ethernet interfaces.
-Base station routers will provide simpler, lower-latency 3GPP/2 networks. Key emerging players are: Alcatel-Lucent, Airvana, and Ubiquisys.
+# Lack of Redundancy: Flat networks rely on a single switch or point of failure, making them vulnerable to outages if that switch fails.
-The Direct Tunnel Architecture is emerging as the most viable evolution path for W-CDMA macro networks. Current implementations include Nokia-Siemens's Internet High Speed Packet Access architecture and Ericsson's Serving GPRS Support Node bypass initiative.
+# Difficult Troubleshooting: The simplicity of flat networks can complicate troubleshooting. With fewer hierarchical layers to isolate issues, identifying the root cause of network problems can be time-consuming.
-The WiMax Access Services Network is the first standardized IP-centric mobile network architecture establishing principles now being adopted across the industry; however, vendor interoperability remains challenging
+# Increased Security Risks: Flat networks are more vulnerable to lateral attacks, where malware or intrusions can spread quickly between devices without traditional segmentation.
+=== Use Cases of Flat IP Architecture ===
+Flat IP architecture is particularly relevant to mobile networks and is supported by several industry standards organizations, including:
+# [[3GPP|3rd Generation Partnership Project]] (3GPP) and 3GPP2: These organizations develop global standards for mobile telecommunication systems and have adopted flat IP principles in their network designs.
+# [[WiMAX]] Forum: The WiMAX Forum, responsible for promoting and certifying wireless broadband technologies, was one of the early adopters of IP-centric mobile networks.
+=== Key Considerations for Mobile Networks ===
+In mobile networks, flat IP architectures integrate the following components:<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-11 |title=What Is A Flat Network? - ITU Online |url=https://www.ituonline.com/tech-definitions/what-is-a-flat-network/ |access-date=2024-09-26 |language=en-US}}</ref>
+# Advanced Base Stations: Modern base stations in flat IP networks handle multiple functions, including radio control, header compression, encryption, call admission control, and policy enforcement. These stations often use IP/Ethernet interfaces to simplify network architecture and reduce latency.
+# Direct Tunnel Architecture: In this configuration, user data bypasses the Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) on the user plane. Direct Tunnel Architecture, supported by major vendors, reduces latency and complexity. Nokia-Siemens' Internet High-Speed Packet Access (IHSPA) takes this further by removing the Radio Network Controller (RNC) from the data path, resulting in even lower latencies.
+# WiMAX Access Services Network (ASN): WiMAX was the first standardized IP-centric mobile network architecture. Although HSPA and LTE networks have since become dominant, many principles from WiMAX ASN remain relevant in modern mobile networks.
 ==See also==
+{{portal|Internet}}
 * [[3GPP Long Term Evolution]]
 * [[All IP]]
+==References==
+{{Reflist}}
 ==External links==
+*[http://www.tcpipguide.com/free/t_NameSpacesandNameArchitecturesFlatandHierarchical.htm TcpIpGuide]
-* [http://www.electrosmart.net/network/Flat-IP-Architecture.php ElectroSmart]
+*[http://www.electrosmart.net/network/Flat-IP-Architecture.php ElectroSmart] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071230032522/http://www.electrosmart.net/network/Flat-IP-Architecture.php |date=2007-12-30 }}
-* [http://www.tcpipguide.com/free/t_NameSpacesandNameArchitecturesFlatandHierarchical.htm TcpIpGuide]
-* [http://www.3gpp.org/ftp/Specs/html-info/25999.htm 3GPP TR 25.999]
+*[http://www.alcatel-lucent.com/ Alcatel Lucent]
+*[https://iphoneimei.net/check-imei iPhone IMEI Checker]
-* [http://www.ubiquisys.com/ Ubiquisys]
-* [http://www.alcatel-lucent.com/ Alcatel Lucent]
+*[http://www.3gpp.org/ftp/Specs/html-info/25999.htm 3GPP TR 25.999]
-* [http://www.airvana.com/ Airvana]
+*[http://www.ubiquisys.com/ Ubiquisys]
+*[http://www.airvana.com/ Airvana]
+*[http://www.ericsson.com/ Ericsson]
 {{DEFAULTSORT:Flat Ip}}
 [[Category:Mobile telecommunications standards]]
-[[Category:3rd Generation Partnership Project standards]]
+[[Category:3GPP standards]]