In the past decades, the mobile wireless network has migrated from the first generation (1G) to the third generation (3G), and 4G is in the time table. As one of the technology branches in the mobile wireless communication, the GSM has been upgraded to GPRS, and then UMTS. The road map of the GSM/UMTS network evolution is charged by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

The GSM/GPRS/UMTS network evolution contains not only technical evolution but also expansion to network architecture and services.

• Technical evolution: how network elements are developed and with which technology.
• Network evolution: in result of network element evolutions the general architecture and functionality of the network is changing.
• Service evolution: demand generated by the end-users that can be supported by the technical features of the network.

GSM/GPRS/UMTS Network and Technology Evolution Roadmap

Related Terms: UMTS, GSM, GPRS, mobile network evolution, GSM evolution

Reference Links:
http://www.javvin.com/wireless-3g-guide.html: 3G mobile wireless technology quick guide
http://www.javvin.com/wirelessmap.html: Wireless Communication Technology Map