Evolution of Telecom Networks: From 2G to 4G
Course Overview
This course explores the evolution of telecom networks, covering key advancements from 2G to 4G. It starts with the basics of communication systems and the architecture of GSM networks, before progressing into 3G UMTS and WCDMA and the key improvements brought by HSPA & HSPA+. Participants will then explore the need for 4G, understanding the demands of modern communication that led to the development of LTE and its network architecture configuration.
The course further examines LTE in depth, covering advanced topics such as LTE call flow, mobility management, and the role of VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) in enabling high-quality voice services over 4G networks. It also addresses the security challenges telecom networks face as they evolve and the ways these are mitigated to ensure the integrity and safety of services.
Lastly, participants will gain insights into the continuous evolution of mobile and cellular communications technologies, and learn how and why these changes are reshaping the telecom landscape. This course is ideal for any professional who is looking to understand the historical progression and technological advancements in telecom networks, with a focus on the future of mobile communications.
Target Audience
- Network Engineers, RF Engineers, Core Network Engineers
- IT & Networking Professionals (interested in mobile networks & IT convergence)
- Government & Regulatory Officials
Duration & Training Format
- Classroom: 5 days
- LIVE Virtual: 35 hours
*Note:
- A minimum of 8 or more participants is required for a Classroom session to commence.
- A minimum of 6 or more participants is required for a LIVE Virtual session to commence.
- LIVE Virtual courses can be conducted for 5 hours or 7 hours daily. Please note that the number of training days will be extended if you opt for 5 hours daily.
Upcoming Course Dates
25 – 29 Aug 2025 (Mon – Fri), GMT +8
If you are keen on attending this course, please register your interest via our course enquiry form.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Acquire a good understanding of telecom networks and its evolution from 2G to 4G
- Develop an in-depth knowledge about 2G (GSM), 3G(UMTS), 4G (LTE) network architectures
- Achieve good understanding on the radio access principles, transport networks, and transmission techniques
- Be able to analyze some call flows, handovers, and important network operations
- Understand VoLTE, IMS, network optimization, and security aspects of modern telecom networks
- Learn the basics of 5G technology and trends
Course Outline
- Basics of Communications Systems
- Telecom Evolution: with 2G to 4G in mind
- General Overview of Mobile Generations (Network)
- GSM-Based, UMTS-Based, LTE-Based Networks – with their Architectures and Call Processes
- GSM Network Architecture (BTS, BSC, MSC, HLR, VLR)
- Air Interface and Frequency Bands
- Inter-phone connection
- Roaming: GSM Call Set-Up
- Voice Calls and Short Message Service
- GPRS, EDGE
- Hands-on Exercise: GSM Call Flow Analysis
- Introduction to 3G UMTS and WCDMA
- Why move to 3G? A conceptual Paradigm Shift from 2G and 3G
- The Pros and Cons of 2G Line: the Need for a Deal with Higher Data Rates
- Importance: Improvement of Voice and Data Services
- More Efficient use of the Spectrum
- 3G Architecture and Generation Technologies
- UMTS Architecture and Characteristics
- Core Network
- SigTran
- UTRAN, NodeB, RNC
- Air Interface and RF WCDMA Techniques
- Soft Handover with Power Control
- Hands-on Exercise – 3G Call Process/Circuit
- 3G Improvements with HSPA & HSPA+
- High-Speed Downlink Packet Access
- High-Speed Uplink Packet Access
- HSPA+
- Dual Cell
- The Need for 4G
- The Migration to a Full-IP Network
- LTE’s Enhanced Throughput & Reduction of Latency
- LTE Requirements
- LTE Configuration of Network Architecture
- eUTRAN, eNodeB
- EPC (MME, SGW, PGW)
- Transmission Techniques (OFDM, SCFDMA)
- Radio Frame Structure
- Dive into LTE (4G) and Advanced Topics
- LTE Air Interface and Transmission
- Frequency Bands
- Carrier Aggregation
- MIMO and Beamforming for Higher Performance
- LTE Call Flow and Mobility
- Attach Procedure
- Paging and Session Set Up
- Inter-RAT Handover (from 3G to 4G, and from 4G back to 3G)
- CSFB and Fast Return to LTE
- VoLTE and IMS (Voice over LTE)
- Precise difference between Circuit-switched vs VoLTE calls
- How IMS drives VoLTE and Video Calls
- Call Flow Analysis
- Security in Telecom Networks and Their Challenges
- Common Security Threats and Counter Measures
- AKA Procedure
- Encryption and Integrity
- Diameter Vulnerabilities
- How and Why Mobile and Cellular Communications Networks, Technologies, Services and Terminals are Changing and Evolving
- The 3G/4G Market Today: Performances and Deployment
- LTE Pro: NB-IoT and LTE-M
- Self-Optimized Networks
- Femtocell and Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA)
- Virtualization: The Cloud RAN
- Relation with Non-3GPP Systems (WiFi, etc.)
- Beyond the 4G: Principles of 5G
Note: A Certificate of Completion will only be issued upon achieving at least 75% attendance for the course.
Prerequisites
NIL
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