This Area is dedicated to the evolution towards the Next Generation Network (NGN), and most of the activities are based on  researches to propose advanced and low cost solutions. To better follow such an evolution Fondazione Ugo Bordoni and ISCTI (Ministero dello Sviluppo Economico-Comunicazioni) implemented a multiservice and multiaccess IP experimental test bed sized to operate in a regional area network , guaranteeing Quality of Service (QoS) for real time multimedia services through proper packet labelling (DiffServ over MPLS and VPLS) and introducing a methodology to assess QoS with objective (network throughput, lost packets, packet delays) and subjective (based on personal evaluations and perceptions) tests (QoS test).
With regard to access networks, FUB activities regard wired and wireless solutions able to guarantee a broadband compatible with interactive TV services, including High Definition IPTV, giving particular emphasis to architectures based on fiber optics solutions (Fiber to the x, where x is for building, home, curb….) and in particular on Passive Optical Networks, PON).
In terms of core networks, the activities mainly regard the high bit rate transmissions (nx40 Gb/s, mx100 Gb/s), the optical processing (OXC, OADM, All Optical Wavelength Conversion) and the IP/Ethernet forwarding techniques with particular interest for Carrier Ethernet.