What is NAP & NSP in Wimax ? How it Works ?

In the context of WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), NAP and NSP are important entities that play crucial roles in providing wireless broadband services.

What is NAP & NSP in Wimax ? How it Works ?

Let’s delve into what NAP and NSP stand for, and how they work together within the WiMAX ecosystem.

NAP (Network Access Provider):

• Definition: NAP, which stands for Network Access Provider, is an entity responsible for providing the operational infrastructure and network facilities required by WiMAX wireless access. These facilities can include one or more ASNs (Access Service Networks).
• Role: NAPs are essentially the physical infrastructure providers in the WiMAX network. They ensure that the necessary network resources, including base stations and access points, are available for the operation of WiMAX services.
• Function: NAPs establish and maintain the hardware and network infrastructure needed to deliver WiMAX services. This includes setting up base stations, antennas, and backhaul connections to ensure wireless coverage in specific geographic areas.

NSP (Network Service Provider):

• Definition: NSP, or Network Service Provider, is responsible for offering IP (Internet Protocol) connection-based WiMAX services to end-users. These services are provided based on agreements and contracts made with WiMAX terminal users at the service layer.
• Role: NSPs are service providers within the WiMAX network ecosystem. They deliver WiMAX services to subscribers, which can include internet access, voice over IP (VoIP), and various data services.
• Function: NSPs enter into agreements with WiMAX terminal users, defining the terms and conditions of service, pricing, and service quality. They are responsible for delivering a seamless and reliable WiMAX experience to their subscribers.

V-NSP (Visited NSP):

• Definition: V-NSP, or Visited NSP, is a specific type of NSP that comes into play when a mobile terminal is located outside its home NSP’s coverage area. In such cases, the NSP that provides services to the terminal is referred to as the V-NSP.
• Role: V-NSPs ensure continuity of service for WiMAX users when they roam outside their home NSP’s coverage. They collaborate with other NSPs to deliver services to these roaming users.
• Function: When a WiMAX-enabled device moves into an area served by a different NSP, the V-NSP takes over the responsibility of providing the necessary network services. This allows users to maintain their connectivity and access services seamlessly while on the move.

H-NSP (Home NSP):

• Definition: H-NSP, or Home NSP, is the NSP that a WiMAX user is originally subscribed to and primarily associated with. It represents the user’s home network provider.
• Role: The H-NSP is the user’s primary service provider, responsible for delivering WiMAX services within the user’s home network coverage area.
• Function: When a WiMAX device is within the coverage area of its H-NSP, it receives services from this provider. The H-NSP handles billing, authentication, and other service-related functions for the user.

How NAP and NSP Work Together:

NAPs and NSPs collaborate to ensure the smooth operation of WiMAX networks. Here’s how they work together:

1. Infrastructure Deployment: NAPs are responsible for deploying and maintaining the physical infrastructure needed for WiMAX services. This includes installing base stations and access points in various geographic areas.
2. Service Agreements: NSPs enter into service agreements with NAPs to utilize their network facilities. These agreements allow NSPs to provide WiMAX services to end-users using the infrastructure provided by the NAP.
3. Subscriber Onboarding: NSPs onboard subscribers by offering WiMAX service plans and signing contracts. Subscribers become associated with their H-NSP.
4. Roaming Services: When a subscriber moves outside the coverage area of their H-NSP, the V-NSP in that new area takes over service provision, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.
5. Billing and Authentication: The H-NSP handles billing and authentication for its subscribers. When roaming, authentication and billing may involve cooperation between the H-NSP and V-NSP to ensure a seamless experience for users.

In summary, NAPs provide the essential network infrastructure, while NSPs deliver WiMAX services to end-users. When users move outside their home network’s coverage area, V-NSPs step in to ensure they can continue using WiMAX services. This collaborative ecosystem ensures widespread coverage and reliable connectivity for WiMAX users.