Overview of IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) [LTE Self-training]

Summary:

1. Core platform of 3GPP, http://www.3gpp.org/ftp/Specs/html-info/23228.htm
2. First released by 3GPP release 5, in order to enhance Packet-Switched domain (UMTS) in supporting IP multimedia services.
3. Providing back compatibility to Circuit-Switched domains and functionality to other IMS domains.
4. Nowadays, IMS provides access to internet services (e.g. email, VoIP, video, etc) overdifferent networks (3G, cable TV, WLAN, xDSL, LTE, etc). The access is independent of network type (wireless or wired) and device type (PC, UE, TV, mobile/fixed terminals, etc).
5. Allowing easy and fast deployment via open structures that including specified common functions such as registration, authentication, authorization, security, charging, session management, policy and bearer control. 
6. SIP is used as the signalling mechanism for IMS, therefore allowing voice, text and multimedia services.
7. Providing flexibility of Internet
8. Benefits for users:
   1) operators and service providers can easily mange data and voice services.

        2) non-3GPP bodies can define their own services on top of IMS using common functions.