 the Web service development. There are many Web service standards associated with SOAP with HTTP that could be reused when NETCONF is intended to be used with SOAP over HTTP. This leads to quicker integration with components that are developed to align with Web standards. However the transport map- ping of NETCONF with SOAP does not map NETCONF operations to SOAP operations. So NETCONF should not be considered as a replacement for SOAP. 18.8 Conclusion This chapter gives the reader an understanding of XML-based protocols. Rather than jumping into details about XML-based protocol, this chapter uses a more methodic approach of first shifting the focus from SNMP to XML by explaining the XML-based protocol using SNMP concepts that were already discussed in previous chapters. Then two of the most popular XML protocols, the SOAP and NETCONF are discussed. The intent was to build a strong foundation on XML protocol for use in network management. Additional Reading 1. Anura Guruge. Corporate Portals Empowered with XML and Web Services. Bedford, Massachusetts: Digital Press, 2002. 2. Don Box, Aaron Skonnard, and John Lam. Essential XML: Protocols and Component Software. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Addison Wesley, 2000. 3. Eric Newcomer. Understanding Web Services: XML, WSDL, SOAP and UDDI. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Addison Wesley, 2002. OPERATION/ BUSINESS SUPPORT SYSTEMS (OSS/BSS) Chapter 19 What Is OSS and BSS? This chapter is intended to give the reader a basic overview on OSS and BSS, which will help in building a solid foundation for understanding the chapters that follow on the process and applications associated with OSS and BSS. The ambiguity in terminologies used and a brief history on the OSS/BSS evolution is also handled in this chapter. 19.1 Introduction The communication service and network industry is moving toward a converged world where communication services like data, voice, and value-added services is available anytime and anywhere. The services are "always on," without the hassle of waiting or moving betwee