The Independent Networks Cooperative Association (INCA) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at establishing a unified set of standards for wholesale services between internet service providers and alternative network providers (altnets).
This move comes at a crucial time for the sector as the UK grapples with the impending copper switch-off and ongoing altnet consolidation. The initiative – which has been in development for some time – has gained significant traction recently, with over 30 companies actively participating. Key players include altnets operating wholesaler networks, both altnet and traditional ISPs, and OSS/BSS software vendors.
The initiative is structured around three core workstreams:
- Regulatory: This stream focuses on aligning the initiative with Ofcom’s ongoing Telecoms Access Review (TAR) consultation, ensuring that the developed standards comply with the latest regulatory requirements and promote a fair and competitive market.
- Commercial: To encourage the adoption of these wholesale standards, this stream has drafted a framework contract designed as an “off-the-shelf” agreement. This standardised contract addresses all crucial commercial aspects, significantly reducing the complexity and effort associated with negotiating multiple bilateral agreements.
- Technical: This stream focuses on defining a unified set of message flows, data models, and APIs. These standards will be supported by multiple BSS (Business Support System) suppliers, enabling ISPs and altnets to seamlessly interconnect on a common platform. This commonality will streamline operations and promote easier integration across the industry.
This initiative complements INCA’s ongoing work on infrastructure sharing, which focuses on creating a standard framework for passive infrastructure access to minimise the need for new ducts and poles.
Industry leaders have praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to boost competition and deliver better value for consumers.
Guy Miller, CEO of MS3, said: “The UK has moved on from one or two underlying network suppliers and is starting to enjoy what competition and innovation brings. It is critical however that these alternative networks are standardised to allow easy access for retail ISPs to take advantage of this and ultimately provide better quality and value to homes and businesses around the country. MS3 is proud to be part of this initiative.”
Wail Sabbagh, Managing Director of Strategic Imperatives, added: “This is a welcome industry initiative that will help expand opportunities for full fibre providers to attract retail ISPs by simplifying and standardising wholesale access.
“By empowering altnets and ISPs to scale more efficiently, we are fostering an agile and competitive wholesale market that benefits all parties involved. Strategic Imperatives is proud to play a significant role in shaping this new industry standard, driving innovation and accessibility across the sector.”
(Photo by Charles Deluvio)
See also: Ofcom report analyses UK mobile connectivity
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