LTE: the evolution of mobile broadband (original) (raw)

— All-IP network architecture is fast becoming a norm in mobile telecommunications. The International Telecommunications Union – Radio communication sector (ITU-R) recognizes a technology as 4G after haven met the International Mobile Telecommunications Advanced (IMT-A) specification of a minimum of 100Mb/s downlink data rate for high mobility and 1Gb/s for low mobility. Advent of Long Term Evolution by 3GPP, providing a minimum downlink data rate of 100Mb/s, marked a new beginning in Radio Access Technologies (RATs). It also notably implements an all-IP network architecture, providing higher data rates, end-to-end Quality of Service (QoS) and reduced latency. This paper aims at providing a technical overview of 3GPP LTE. Starting from a brief overview of its network architecture, this paper aims at exploring some key features of LTE that places it at the forefront in achieving the goals of wireless access evolution, enabling it to become a key element of the ongoing mobile internet growth. This paper also highlights two key aspects of LTE that are currently research intensive, and is wrapped up with the technological advancements on LTE.