IEEE 2061-2024 Standard

Source: The post IEEE 2061-2024 Standard has been created, based on the article “On improving rural mobile connectivity” published in “The Hindu” on 3rd July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- science and technology- indigenisation of technology and developing new technology.

Context: The article discusses how mobile devices rely on cellular networks for connectivity. It explains the differences between access networks and core networks. It highlights challenges in rural connectivity and introduces the IEEE 2061-2024 standard for affordable rural broadband access.

What is the current status of cellular networks in India?

1. Urban vs Rural Tele-Density: Urban areas in India show a tele-density of 127%, meaning most urban residents have more than one mobile connection. In contrast, rural tele-density stands at only 58%, indicating less than one connection per two people in rural areas.
2. Challenges in Rural Connectivity: Rural regions face significant challenges due to lower income levels, sparse populations, and geographical remoteness, making network infrastructure costly and complex to deploy.

What Are Access and Core Networks?

1. Access Network (AN): The AN includes base stations that provide wireless connectivity to mobile devices within a limited geographical area. These are commonly seen as towers with antennas.
2. Coverage: Network operators install base stations across regions to ensure coverage. Each base station serves a specific area.
3. Core Network (CN): The CN connects these base stations to other networks, such as the Internet. It operates centrally and is linked to base stations via optical fiber links called backhaul.
4. Data Flow: Data from a user’s device passes through both the AN and CN to reach its destination. Even nearby users must route data through the CN.
5. Mobility Support: The CN is crucial for supporting user mobility, ensuring seamless connectivity as users move.

What Is the IEEE 2061-2024 Standard?

1. Definition: The IEEE 2061-2024 standard, developed by IIT Bombay, focuses on providing affordable broadband access in rural areas.
2. How It Works: It uses a heterogeneous network structure combining large coverage area base stations (macro-BS) with smaller area Wi-Fi networks. This allows for broad yet high-speed connectivity.
3. Integrated AN Control: This feature enables seamless switching for devices between different network types (Wi-Fi to macro-BS), preventing service disruptions.
4. Advantages:

a) Cost-Effective: Employs a multi-hop wireless middle-mile network, reducing the need for expensive fiber installations. The middle-mile network serves as a connection between the access network (local connections to users) and the core network (centralized connections to the internet).

b) Flexibility: Supports various technologies, like satellites and long-range Wi-Fi.

c) Direct Connectivity: Allows direct internet access from the AN, bypassing the central CN for local connections, which enhances network efficiency in rural settings.

d) Potential Impact: If widely adopted, this standard could significantly improve internet access in underserved rural areas, bridging the digital divide.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the IEEE 2061-2024 standard aims to improve broadband access in rural areas.