SS7 & SIGTRAN Mobile Networks explains the evolving role that SS7 and associated signalling systems play in modern telecommunication networks, including how SS7 is implemented in an IP environment using the SIGTRAN standards.

The basic SS7 architecture is first examined, with detailed descriptions of the Message Transfer Part (MTP), Signalling Connection Control Part (SCCP) and the Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP). The role and operation of the various user and application parts are then explained, including the ISDN User Part (ISUP), National and Interworking User Parts (NUP / IWUP), Intelligent Network Application Part (INAP), Mobile Application Part (MAP), and CAMEL Application Part (CAP). Examples are used throughout to illustrate different call control scenarios, and also to show how services and mobility can be effectively controlled using the relevant SS7 protocols.

The move towards the IP core network is considered by exploring the requirements, operation, and architecture of SS7 over IP, the Softswitch and the UMTS all-IP core network. The implementation of SS7 in IP-based networks using SIGTRAN is considered in detail – including detailed network architecture, resilience and redundancy issues, use of SCTP and inter working. To provide a complete picture, the GSM based mobile network is used as an example throughout as this encompasses all major standard scenarios and interface types, including those found in fixed networks.

Why should you attend this course?

• Recognise different signalling scenarios found in modern telecommunications networks, and identify the network entities involved (including scenarios for Call Control, Mobility Support, Service Support, and Interworking)
• For each defined interface, briefly describe the type and scope of information that may need transferring between the entities, differentiating between circuit-related and non circuit-related signalling
• Explain the role played by each level within the SS7 protocol stack – including MTP Levels 1, 2, and 3, SCCP, and TCAP
• Identify key interfaces on which the different layers of the SS7 protocol stack are used – focusing on its use within modern fixed and GSM based networks
• Describe the role of Call Control protocols in fixed and mobile networks, focusing primarily on the ISDN User Part (ISUP) and its use in GSM
• State the main functions, modes of operation, use, and formatting principles for both the Signalling Connection Control Part, and Transaction Capabilities Application Part of SS7
• Identify the different levels of SS7 on each interface of a modern network (using GSM-based systems as the example) – fully understanding its role and operation
• Describe the features and functions of the INAP, MAP and CAMEL protocols, showing where they are used
• Describe clearly the way in which the underlying SS7 network is used to transfer INAP, MAP or CAMEL messages / information flows using MTP, SCCP and TCAP protocols
• Follow the procedures for both simple service control and mobility scenarios
• Discuss briefly the reasons behind a move to an all IP core network, the advantages and disadvantages, and the effect this may have on both the SS7 protocol architecture, and on the SS7 physical architecture
• Explain the detailed implementation of SS7 in IP-based networks using SIGTRAN – including detailed network architecture, resilience and redundancy issues, use of SCTP and inter-working

Course Summary:

• Signalling Requirements and the Basics of SS7
• SS7 Functions, Architecture & the Message Transfer Part
• Call Control & the ISDN User Part
• Non Circuit-Related Signalling
• SS7 in use - GSM & MAP, INAP & CAP
• The evolcing Network - SS7 over IP
• SIGTRAN Network - Operation & Design