UMA (Unlicensed Mobile Access): A New Approach towards Mobility

The purpose of this document is to describe the fixed-mobile convergence solution using Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA) technology. This document describes elements for UMA access and convergence solution and the evolution towards the IP based network. UMA technology offers an alternative to the cellular radio access network (RAN), which uses the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and General Packet Radio Service/Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution (GPRS/EDGE) core circuit, data, and IMS services through IP-based broadband connections. To deliver a seamless user experience throughout these various access networks, the UMA specifications define a new network element, the UMA Network Controller (UNC), together with associated protocols for the secure transport of GSM and GPRS/EDGE, signalling, and bearer traffic over I