What is an Intelligent Network (IN)

An IN is a Service-independent telecommunications network. The intelligence is taken out of the switch and placed in computer nodes that are distributed throughout the network, providing the network operator with the means to develop and control services more efficiently. New capabilities can be rapidly introduced into the network.

Some of the plus points of an Intelligent Network are follow:

Introduce new services rapidly— IN provides the capability to provision new services or modify existing services throughout the network with physical intervention.
provide service customization—Service providers require the ability to change the service logic rapidly and efficiently. Customers are also demanding control of their own services to meet their individual needs.
establish vendor independence—A major criterion for service providers is that the software must be developed quickly and inexpensively. To accomplish this, suppliers must integrate commercially available software to create the applications required by service providers.
create open interfaces—Open interfaces allow service providers to introduce network elements quickly for individualized customer services. The software must interface with other vendors' products while still maintaining stringent network operations standards. Service providers are no longer relying on one or two vendors to provide equipment and software to meet customer requirements.