Training Solutions

LTE-EPC Networks and Signaling

The LTE Evolved Packet System (EPS) is an evolution of the 3GPP system architecture with the vision of an all-IP network finally realized. EPS consists of the Evolved UTRAN (E-UTRAN) and Evolved Packet Core (EPC). EPC supports mobility with the existing 3GPP and non-3GPP (1xEV-DO) wireless networks to facilitate smooth migration, interworking, and service continuity across these networks. The EPC and E-UTRAN will be optimized for the delivery of all services using IP, including voice service using VoIP. EPS will use IMS as the services network and manage QoS across the system, enabling a dynamic mix of voice, video, and data services. This course provides a detailed look at the architecture of the EPC and the signaling between the UE, E-UTRAN and EPC network components.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the student will be able to:
• Sketch the EPC architecture
• Describe the components that make up the EPC and their roles
• List the key protocols of LTE-EPC like NAS, GTP and Diameter
• Explain how authentication and security are achieved in the EPC
• Describe the different options for IP address allocation
• Differentiate between GTP and PMIP-based mobility
• Describe an EPC session setup
• Explain the role of the PCC network
• Explain how services are added and how QoS requirements are managed
• Describe connectivity to multiple APN (PDN connections)
• Explain the role of EPC in X2- and S1-based handovers
• Describe deployment considerations

Intended Audience

This course is designed for those involved in development, integration, deployment and engineering of LTE-EPC wireless systems.

Suggested Prerequisites

• LTE Overview (eLearning)
• LTE SAE Evolved Packet Core (EPC) Overview (eLearning)

Course Length

3 Days Instructor Led

Course Outlines / Knowledge Knuggets

1. LTE-EPC Network Architecture
1.1. LTE-EPC network architecture
1.2. E-UTRAN network architecture
1.3. Roaming/non-roaming architecture
1.4. Network nodes and roles of HSS, MME, S-GW, P-GW, and PCRF
1.5. Key interfaces: S1, S5, S6, S10 and S11
1.6. Key features and services

2. LTE-EPC Protocols
2.1. NAS protocol states
2.2. Role of EMM and ESM
2.3. GTPv2-C, GTP-U, Proxy-MIP (PMIPv6)
2.4. Diameter and related interfaces
2.5. Role of SCTP and IPv6 in LTE-EPC
2.6. End-to-end signaling and traffic flow

3. LTE-EPC Signaling Fundamentals
3.1. Network identities and UE identities
3.2. Signaling bearers
3.3. Data bearers, EPS bearers
3.4. Default and dedicated bearers
3.5. PDN connections and APNs

4. Network Access in LTE-EPC
4.1. PLMN selection
4.2. Initial attach procedure
4.3. MME, S-GW and P-GW selection
4.4. Default EPS bearer setup
4.5. Bearer establishment and TEIDs
4.6. IP management mechanisms

5. Security in LTE-EPC
5.1. Security architecture in LTE-EPC
5.2. Authentication and Key Agreement (AKA)
5.3. NAS and AS security
5.4. Network security

6. QoS Framework in LTE-EPC
6.1. PCC architecture
6.2. Nodes: PCRF, PCEF, 3GPP AAA
6.3. Interfaces: Gx, Rx, Sp
6.4. SDF, SDF Aggregation, TFT, QoS
6.5. DL and UL traffic flow templates

7. Session Establishment and PDN Connectivity
7.1. Dedicated EPS bearer setup
7.2. PCRF-PCEF interaction
7.3. Multiple PDN connectivity
7.4. Service request operation
7.5. Paging operation
7.6. PDN disconnection and detach

8. Intra-LTE Mobility
8.1. X2-based handovers
8.2. Intra and inter MME handovers
8.3. Intra and inter S-GW handovers
8.4. Tracking area updates

9. IMS and Support for Voice
9.1. IMS and seamless mobility
9.2. Circuit-Switched Fallback (CSFB)
9.3. Voice Call Continuity (VCC)
9.4. Single Radio Voice Call Continuity (SRVCC)

10. Deployment Considerations
10.1. Evolving to EPC network
10.2. Interworking with 2G/3G networks

11. End-to-End Flow

CATALOG

Download our course catalog!

2010 Catalog,
pdf format (7.8 MB)