Ericssons Evolved Packet Core

The new flat architecture why is it needed?

Evolved Packet Core is a flat, IP-based core network architecture, supporting the next generation of mobile broadband. The main driving forces for Evolved Packet Core are the rapid adoption of mobile broadband and the requirements of new multimedia services. The migration of voice traffic to the packet switched domain is also an important consideration. These factors call for increased capacity and improved performance in the core network. Combined with LTE access networks, Evolved Packet Core provides a whole new experience or the user with true broadband access virtually anywhere and a rich variety of applications. The new core network architecture can be implemented by software upgrades only and supports multiple access technologies. This means that earlier investments in GSM, WCDMA and CDMA equipment are protected. The new architecture also enables a common core network for convergence, which significantly reduces cost of ownership for operators with both fixed and mobile broadband offerings. In the simplified flat architecture there are only two nodes in the traffic plane, which makes it inherently more efficient. The flat architecture brings higher throughput and reduced delays.

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Ericssons offering a complete portfolio

Ericsson has introduced the industrys most advanced Evolved Packet Core portfolio. It complies with standards and adds the new functionality to existing Ericsson packet core products, through simple software upgrades. This minimizes capital expenditure and ensures a smooth migration to the new core network architecture. The portfolio includes the following nodes: Mobile Packet Gateway (GGSN-MPG) Converged Packet Gateway (CPG) Mobility Management Entity (SGSN-MME) Service-Aware Policy Controller (SAPC)

The Mobile Packet Gateway is suitable for operators with an installed base of Ericsson GGSNs, and very large numbers of subscribers. The Converged Packet Gateway addresses the new converged broadband segment. It is built on Ericssons powerful SmartEdge platform and caters for both mobile and fixed broadband traffic. The legacy SGSN is not needed in the traffic plane of the Evolved Packet Core architecture. With new software the Ericsson SGSN is easily re-designated as a Mobility Management Entity. This way the node is re-used for control signaling, supporting pooled deployment and still having the capabilities to handle legacy GSM and WCDMA traffic. The Service-Aware Policy Controller provides advanced policy control functionality and is a key component in converged core network solutions.

Ericssons gateway nodes

Mobile Packet Gateway

Converged Packet Gateway

Ericssons control nodes

Mobility Management Entity

Service-Aware Policy Controller

Ericssons Evolved Packet Core with the CPG for converged broadband