The Core The objective is to build a separate IP network running over optic fiber. This core serves as a converged medium for all services (voice, video, and data). The core will be a fully resilient in terms of failure protection and recovery and should adhere to the levels of service characterized in ITU-T Rec Y 1541 as listed below.

A star/meshed architecture will be used in the core utilizing well know IP protocols for network resilience, IGRP, OSPF, BGP etc. for routing updates and Multi-protocol Label Switching (MPLS) for traffic engineering.The IP core MUST have the following characteristics:Service TransparencyThis is particularly important when exchanging traffic between TDM equipment. IP trunking will be required between switches.Service AvailabilityThis focuses on the resilience of the network and its ability to recover from a fault without impacting services. Service Quality This is important in terms of assigning relevant network resources to specific applications or type of traffic in a real-time fashion. Quality of Service also redresses issues associated with a packet network such as jitter and packet loss, to ensure uninterrupted real-time voice and streaming services. Service Scalability The network should scale cost-effectively as the demand grows. Service Security This is particularly important when interfacing with other networks including client networks and the Internet. It is worth noting that the same guiding principles are inherited by the edge and access network so as to ensure end-to-end service assurance.
MPLS will be configured on the IP network for effective traffic engineering.