AG 5500
246 The Subscriber Interface
Authorization and Billing
As a gateway device, the AG 5500 enables plug-and-play access to broadband networks.
Broadband network solution providers can now offer their subscribers a wide range of high
speed services, including access to the Internet. Of course, a high speed Internet connection is
not free – subscribers pay an access fee, based on the duration of their connection.
Additionally, subscribers may want to take advantage of the solution provider’s local network
services (for example, purchasing goods and local services). In either case, the subscriber is
required to pay. And naturally, subscribers expect to pay only for the services rendered to them.
In any environment, billing is a complex process. It requires accurate data collection and
reconciliation, a means to validate and protect the data, and an efficient method for collecting
payments.
The AG 5500 offers powerful billing support functionality called “Authentication,
Authorization, and Accounting.” This feature (also known as AAA) employs a combination of
command routines designed to create a flexible, efficient, and secure billing environment. For
example, when a subscriber logs into the system, their unique MAC address is placed into an
authorization table. The system then authenticates the subscriber’s MAC address and billing
information before allowing them to access the Internet and make online purchases.
Launch browser
Enter credit card details
Subscriber
AG 5500
AAA
Network access
External
Web
server
Solution Provider
bank
account
Authorize this
subscriber
No Yes
Billing
mirror
server
PMS
system
ag5500_userguide.book Page 246 Tuesday, June 5, 2007 7:31 PM
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