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The Subscriber Interface
Authorization and Billing
As a gateway device, the Access Gateway 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. 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 Access Gateway 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.
The AAA Structure
The Access Gateway’s Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) module enables the solution
provider to provision, track, and bill new or returning subscribers. This includes:
Allowing the solution provider (for example, a hotel) to bill its guests for the high speed network
services it provides, track usage on the network, and deny service to those guests who have not paid.
Allowing the solution provider to bill subscribers for services rendered, either directly on their hotel
bill (in the hotel scenario), via a mailed invoice, or directly to the subscriber’s PayPal account.
Summary of Contents for AG 2300
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