SS7 Glossary

Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)

The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) refers to the global network infrastructure that enables the transmission of traditional telephone calls through a circuit-switched system. It is a collection of interconnected telephone lines, switches, and other equipment operated by various telecommunications providers worldwide. The PSTN allows users to make voice calls over long distances using analog or digital signals, providing reliable and widespread communication services.

M3UA

M3UA (MTP Level 3 User Adaptation Layer) is a protocol used in telecommunication networks to enable the efficient and reliable exchange of signaling messages between IP-based signaling nodes. It serves as an adaptation layer between the transport layer and the Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol stack.

SCCP

SCCP (Signalling Connection Control Part) is a protocol used in telecommunication networks to provide reliable and efficient communication between network elements. It operates at the network layer of the Signalling System 7 (SS7) protocol stack and is responsible for handling both connection-oriented and connectionless signalling messages. SCCP enables features such as global title translation, connection management, and routing, facilitating secure and robust signalling exchange for various telecommunication services. In connectionless mode, SCCP allows for the rapid transmission of messages without establishing a dedicated connection, suitable for applications like SMS. In connection-oriented mode, SCCP ensures reliable data transfer with session management, making it ideal for critical applications requiring data integrity and error correction.

TCAP

TCAP (Transaction Capabilities Application Part) is a protocol used in telecommunication networks to provide transaction-oriented services for signaling communication. It operates at the application layer of the Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol stack and is responsible for the exchange of non-circuit-related information between network elements. TCAP enables functions such as database queries, service interactions, and transaction handling, allowing for advanced services like intelligent network capabilities and value-added services in telecommunications.

MAP

MAP (Mobile Application Part) is a protocol used in mobile telecommunication networks to enable communication between various network elements. It operates at the application layer of the Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol stack and facilitates services such as mobile call handling, SMS messaging, location-based services, and roaming.

ISUP

ISUP (ISDN User Part) is a protocol used in telecommunication networks to establish, manage, and release voice circuits for traditional circuit-switched telephone calls. It operates at the network layer of the Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol stack and is responsible for the signaling exchange between switching nodes for call setup, routing, and teardown.

INAP

INAP (Intelligent Network Application Part) is a protocol used in telecommunication networks to enable the implementation of intelligent network services and features. It operates at the application layer of the Signaling System 7 (SS7) protocol stack and provides the means for advanced call control and service logic execution. INAP allows service providers to offer value-added services such as call routing, number translation, prepaid billing, and custom service creation, enhancing the capabilities and flexibility of telecommunication networks.