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In Smart cities, Network operators generally prefer to deploy open access network and try not to be
responsible for service delivery to the end subscriber. They opt to go with Open Access network
approach which can be utilized to provide connectivity to the end users for multiple Service
providers. For example this will be a type of Network which can be used to deliver HSI (high speed
internet) service from one Service Provider and Voice service from another Service provider to a
single user or the user can opt to go with all triple play services from single Service provider.

The Biggest challenge in designing such networks is that the Network components and equipment
must be able to support the features and functionalities that can help in separating and segregating
different types of services from different service providers being delivered to different subscribers.

Designing an Open Access Network is a bit different than a normal FTTX Network. It is generally
assumed that a network planned for triple play services using GPON technology can be utilized as
an Open Access Network. We need to understand that this is not completely true. Generally the
Networks deployed by Telecom Operators are not Open Access Network and the reason behind is
that the Telecom Operators are themselves responsible for the service delivery and want full control
over their deployments. They do not take service from other operators and serve their users.
Actually the complete end‐to‐end network and service delivery is managed by single Network
Operator. Such networks do not fall under the category of Open Access Networks. While Designing
the Open Access Networks it must be kept in mind that not all OLTs, ONTs, Routers and Switches
support Open Access Network Feature. There are limited no of devices which can be utilized for
such deployments. Product selection is very critical and any mistake during this stage can be
devastating at later stages.

2.5.3 About Open Access Network

Open Access provides a network business model that separates the physical bearer network from
the service network. The infrastructure of an Open Access network, including passive infrastructure
(optical fibers, equipment room premises, and cables) and active network devices, is built by an
operator. Retail service providers (RSP) directly lease bandwidth on the infrastructure network to
provide service packages to end subscribers.

In the conventional model, an operator builds and operates its network and delivers services to end‐
users. Unlike the conventional model, Open Access builds a layered network over which separate
Service Providers deliver their services.

Open Access brings the following benefits:
 Maximizes the freedom of choice for end users. End‐users have more services to choose from
and can even switch from one service provider to another without changing their home
terminals (such as their ONTs).
 Lowers investment risks for Retail Service Providers. The business model of Open Access greatly
shortens the cycle of return on investment (ROI). The traditional business model of operators,
who usually have monopoly over their networks, requires an ROI cycle of 8‐10 years. The Open
Access business model shortens the ROI cycle to 1‐2 years. Hence Open Access lowers the
investment entrance level and risks for RSPs, and promotes competition and innovation.

 Opens up a wider arena for RSPs. RSPs no longer need to build the infrastructure network and
are able to focus on innovation and competition of services and contents.

ITU‐T's Technical Reports and Specifications 277