ITU‐T's Technical Reports and Specifications 277 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.