A range of technologies can be used to deliver synchronization solutions in next-generation packet networks. To ensure that the overall business objectives are met, the solution of choice is dependent on a detailed understanding of the requirements.

Network synchronization must be a key consideration when designing next-generation telecom networks. Otherwise, an apparently economic solution might give rise to excessive complexity and high overall cost.

Packet-based methods are independent of the underlying transport layer and can be deployed without timing support from the network. A complete end-to-end packet-based solution is thus often the most cost-effective or viable option.

For some mobile applications, network operators can deploy a synchronization solution that must only recover accurate long-term frequency synchronization from timing packets. These applications are suited to a solution that does not rely on timing support from the network. The answer is to deploy stable oscillators in base stations and to use a packet protocol, such as the network time protocol (NTP).

Synchronous Ethernet may not always be practicable ¬ for instance, when timing needs to be carried across operator boundaries. It does provide accurate frequency synchronization, however, and the technology can be beneficial in some cases.

Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) are still the most reliable and preferred solution for applications that require accurate time and phase synchronization. Packet-based solutions that incorporate support from the network nodes (based, for instance, on IEEE 1588 v2) might soon offer an alternative to GNSS.