Application Example: Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN)

What is a gateway GPRS support node?

A gateway GPRS support node (GGSN) acts as an interface between the GPRS backbone network and the external packet data networks (radio network and the IP network). It converts the GPRS packets coming from the SGSN into the appropriate packet data protocol (PDP) format (e.g. IP or X.25) and sends them out on the corresponding packet data network. In the other direction, the PDP addresses of incoming data packets are converted to the GSM address of the destination user. The readdressed packets are sent to the responsible SGSN. For this purpose, the GGSN stores the current SGSN address of the user and his or her profile in its location register. The GGSN also performs authentication and charging functions.

What products do we provide for this application?

Our Advanced Managed Platform™ is an ideal foundation for building a GGSN. This platform configuration includes:

Packet-based Platforms: Bundled with the industry's broadest line of 10/100 and Gigabit Ethernet switches, comprehensive shelf management and high-density power supplies, these platforms give equipment manufacturers and system integrators the basis to go beyond five-nines availability while handling the high-performance computing requirements of next-generation, packet-based systems.

Single Board Computers: High-performance, standards-based application processors designed for carrier-grade telecom and Internet applications requiring exceptional processing power and high availability.

T1/E1/J1 and T3 Adapters: Complete line of high-performance T1/E1/J1 and T3 products provides the ideal development platforms for today's communication and networking applications. Empowering these hardware platforms is a complete offering of enabling software and middleware solutions including our NexusWare™ Linux-based software products and WAN Protocol Software (Radar Receiver, X.25, Frame Relay, etc.). This combination of hardware and software from a single supplier was created to ease your integration efforts and allow you to concentrate on applications.

Embedded Ethernet Switches: PICMG 2.16®-compliant, that provide increased bandwidth, performance and reliability in high availability applications such as defense, IP telephony and broadband. These switches have been designed to make system integration easier, while maximizing network performance and flexibility.