Mobile Networking Protocols for GSM

Mobile Networking Protocols

IS-136 and IS-95 based networks both utilize ANSI-41 as a protocol for mobile networking. ANSI-41 based networks are deployed primarily in the Americas and parts of Asia.

Global System for Mobility (GSM) is a global standard based on TDMA. GSM utilizes the GSM Mobile Application Part (MAP) as a mobile networking protocol.

Mobile Networking

Cellular/PCS networks can use different type of mobile networking protocols that allow for roaming – the use of a mobile phone while away from the home area – and advanced services.

Global System for Mobility (GSM) networks deployed in Europe and throughout the world utilizes a protocol called the GSM Mobile Application Part (MAP), standardized by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). Other TDMA based networks and CDMA networks utilize a protocol called ANSI-41, a protocol standardized by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and the American Standards Institute (ANSI).

Mobile networking entails communication between Home Location Registers (HLR) and Visiting Location Registers (VLR) - databases used to store information about subscribers. Communication between these databases allows roaming.

ANSI-41 and GSM MAP

GSM MAP and ANSI-41 are key protocols that utilize SS7 to allow roaming and advanced as well as more advanced capabilities. Communication between the VLR in the serving system and the HLR of the home area is facilitated by these mobile networking protocols and signaling based on a signaling protocol called Signaling System number Seven (SS7).

In GSM networks, the MAP rides on top of SS7, allowing VLR to HLR (and HLR to VLR) communications.

In non-GSM networks (such as many of those found in the United States), ANSI-41 is deployed (which also uses SS7) for HLR/VLR communications.

Mobile IN for GSM & ANSI-41

While there are various proprietary-based mobile intelligent network (IN) technologies, the standards based technologies are often of most value to the mobile network operator and their customers. These standards based technologies are referred to as Customized Applications for Mobile Enhanced Logic (CAMEL) and Wireless Intelligent Network (WIN) and are used in GSM and ANSI-41 based networks respectively.