Shifting from Legacy to Next-Generation Networks
Introduction
In an emergency, we are all taught to reach for our phones and instinctively dial the digits 911. But we never think about what happens behind the scenes to ensure calls reach the right emergency service agency and resource, all while using the exact same access number from anywhere in the country and on any device. According to NENA, the 911 Association, it works 240,000,000 times yearly.
However, the infrastructure supporting our 911 network is evolving significantly. Moving from a decades-old, analog-based legacy model, this new network is built on an advanced digital IP architecture (known as Next Generation 911, or NG911). Since the introduction of this network, the way we communicate has dramatically changed, and this shift in technology demands that we enhance the reliability and functionality of our emergency communications systems and services to more accurately reflect today’s communication modalities.
In this paper, I will simplify this network and explain how it utilizes new and advanced features to increase the overall effectiveness of enterprise-based solutions that provide 911 compliance.
Legacy E9-1-1 Networks
The Basics
The soon-to-be-retired 911 network has been the backbone of emergency services in the United States for more than half a century, when the very first 911 call was placed on February 16, 1968, in Haleyville, Alabama. The system relies on an analog infrastructure, with minimal intelligence in its copper wire network. The intelligence is all contained within the specialized telephone company Central Offices, which house special gear called E911 Selective Routers. These connect 911 callers to the closest 911 center, allowing a single number (911) to be used nationwide yet provide local services to each caller based on their location.
How it Works
Selective Routers utilize a Selective Router Database (SRDB) that provides a cross-reference of phone numbers to their associated physical addresses and responsible Public Safety agencies. When dialing 911, your call is routed to a central office Selective Router, which determines the appropriate local 911 center, also known as Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP). While revolutionary at its inception 56 years ago, when devices were installed and rarely moved. In today’s digital and mobile age, the effective functionality of this method has become limited, as devices can change location much faster than the legacy databases can be updated, and the legacy networks only support voice and not multimedia.
The Rise of Next Generation 911 (NG911)
What is NG911?
NG911 is a modern, digital upgrade to the existing 911 system. This new infrastructure leverages intelligent Internet Protocol (IP) networks to deliver emergency with more detailed information and greater reliability. With NG911, intelligence isn’t confined to specific segments in the network. Instead, it’s distributed across a resilient, robust, redundant national network. It can also carry intelligent digital media for better situational awareness and higher levels of collaboration between 1st responders and citizens.
Benefits of NG911
- Enhanced Data Capabilities: NG911 can handle text messages, images, and video, providing more context and precise location information to 1st responders.
- Improved Routing: Calls can be dynamically routed based on real-time conditions, ensuring they reach the most appropriate PSAP and calltaker.
- Interoperability: NG911 allows for seamless communication betwee
Transitioning to NG911
Current State of E9-1-1
In the current transition phase, traditional 911 calls are still routed through the legacy E911 network. This means that, despite the advancements of NG911, calls made by dialing 911 are currently locked into the legacy system.
Alternative Methods of Access
To facilitate NG911 transition efforts and take advantage of the benefits of NG911 components already live, alternative toll-free PSTN numbers exist to provide access to the NG911 carrier providers. To utilize these NG911 networks today, Multi-Line Telephone System (MLTS) operators simply manipulate 911 calls in their MLTS dialplan, stripping out the 911 digits and inserting the Bandwidth Access number. This allows calls to be routed through NG911 networks. This process is invisible to the end user and typically faster due to the digital nature of the translations.
Other Advanced Routing Options
SIP Trunks and Peer-to-Peer Routing
An even more direct route is available for businesses with Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) trunks. MLTS administrators can establish a peer-to-peer connection with NG911 carriers, like Bandwidth. 911 calls are sent directly to the Bandwidth National NG911 cloud. This method bypasses traditional networks entirely, offering a more reliable connection to emergency services and quick termination (often faster than Legacy).
The Reliability of Modern Networks
The Legacy PSTN vs. Modern Fiber Optic Networks
The legacy Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is rapidly being replaced by modern fiber optic lines. These new lines form a highly resilient and redundant mesh network. They are easily monitored for issues and can reroute traffic around problem areas, ensuring uninterrupted service. Utilizing these networks as transport vehicles for 911 Traffic not only improves the level of information being provided to Public Safety, but call set-up is nearly immediate.
Regulatory Compliance and some MLTS Dialplan Magic
Kari’s Law and the RAY BAUM’S Act
Both Kari’s Law and the RAY BAUM’S Act are critical pieces of legislation aimed at improving the accessibility and accuracy of emergency services. Alternative numbers or direct SIP trunk connections to reach NG911 does not violate these laws. Instead, these new networks enhance the functionalities and compliance of emergency services WHILE USERS STILL USE THE SAME WELL KNOWN 911 NUMBER THEY ALWAYS HAVE.
The Future of Emergency Services
As NG911 continues to roll out across the United States and internationally, the way we access emergency services is becoming more reliable and feature-rich. By diverting calls to certified national 911 carriers through digit manipulation or direct SIP trunk connectivity, we are paving the way for a smarter and more efficient emergency response system.
Keeping Up with the Transition
For consumers and businesses, there’s no need to track the progress of NG911 adoption actively. Carriers manage this transition behind the scenes, ensuring that the infrastructure keeps pace with technological advancements.
In Conclusion
The shift from the legacy E9-1-1 network to NG911 represents a significant leap forward in emergency services. With enhanced data capabilities, improved routing, and greater reliability, NG911 is set to revolutionize how we connect with emergency responders. During this transition phase, alternative access numbers and modern routing methods ensure that we continue to benefit from these advancements without interruption.
As we move towards a fully digital emergency network, the future of 911 services looks brighter than ever. The deployment of NG911 across the country and beyond will bring us closer to a safer, more responsive world where help is just a call away, no matter the circumstances.
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