Future wireless communication systems will support multiple access systems on heterogeneous network bases leading to reconfigurable and flexible systems. It is obvious that multiple radios access will have several networking architecture that offer potential flexibility and cost advantages over the current architecture. Dynamic reconfiguration of SDR terminals provides a number of benefits to mobile users, network operators, service providers and equipment manufacturers alike. However, these benefits can only be fully leveraged if appropriate mechanisms for reconfiguration, operation and maintenance of terminals and network entities are utilized Three major requirements to be provided through such ‘access support and core-network’ integration:

• connectivity between access and core networks
  
• internetworking between different access schemes (i.e. inter- and intrasystem handoffs, QoS negotiation, security, and mobility support)
• the ability to interface with new and existing radio interfaces.

This webpage:

• first, briefly introduces the idea of protocol stacks, service access point (SAP) and difference between SAPs and open interfaces.
• second, reviews the basic concepts of protocol reconfigurability in general, followed by an introduction to composable protocols, adaptable protocols, reconfigurable stacks and active networks.
• The third part outlines possible reconfiguration management and control that are designed or proposed to support reconfiguration software download and reconfiguration of software defined radios.
• A description of, and rationale for, distributed support networks are contained within the fourth section; such as NACCH, the Bootstrap channel and UCCH.
• The final section summarizes the network requirements for effective support of software radio technology.

see also :

Powerpoint Presentation:"Protocol and Network Aspects of SDR"

"VISIONS OF 4G"