Mobius Diameter Glossary

IP Multimedia Systems (IMS)

IMS, also known as IP Multimedia Subsystem, is a standards-based architectural framework that is used to deliver multimedia communications services over IP networks, including voice, video, and text messaging.

RADIUS protocol

Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, often known as RADIUS, is a network protocol that is commonly used to authenticate and authorize users trying to connect to embedded routers, modem servers, software, and wireless apps. 

TCP/SCTP

In computer networks, SCTP is a link-oriented protocol that enables full-duplex transmission of several data streams between two endpoints, therefore establishing a network connection. TCP is a connection-oriented protocol that ensures data transfer.

UDP

User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a communications protocol largely used to provide low-latency, loss-tolerant connections between internet-based applications. It is often used for time-sensitive applications like gaming, watching films, or Domain Name System (DNS) lookups. 

IPSec

A collection of protocols known as IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) are used to establish secure connections between devices. As a result, data transmitted across open networks is kept secure.

TLS

A widely used security technology called Transport Layer Security, or TLS, enables privacy and data security for communications over the Internet. One of the main uses of TLS is encrypting communication between web applications and servers, such as when web browsers load a website.

AVP

An attribute-value pair (AVP) is a fundamental representation of data in computer systems and their various applications. An attribute-value pair is also sometimes called a name-value pair, key-value pair or field-value pair.

DNS

The Domain Name System (DNS) is the phone book of the Internet. Domain names are used by people to access information online.

SRV

The SRV record is a resource record in the Domain Name System (DNS). It's used to identify computers hosting specific services. Domain controllers for Active Directory are located via SRV resource records.

NAPTR

NAPTR (Name Authority Pointer) records are a particular kind of DNS record that enable the Session Initiation Protocol to map servers and user addresses. 

Mobius JAIN–SLEE Resource Adaptors

Mobius’ jDiameter includes integration interfaces for Mobius SIP Servlets and Mobius JAIN–SLEE Resource Adaptors and features an extensible architecture that allows additional Diameter applications or modules to be connected. 

Virtual machine (VM) deployments

Virtual machines are used to replace network appliance hardware in network functions virtualization (NFV). Virtual computers use a hypervisor to operate networking software and processes like load balancing and routing.

Cloud deployment

Mobius’ on-premises and cloud deployment options provide outstanding flexibility for service providers and enterprise applications.

Open-Source software

Mobius’ open-Source software is well-documented, allowing the client’s staff the opportunity to learn, optimize and customize the Diameter server to the client's evolving requirements free from vendor lock-in. 

3G

3G, or the third generation of mobile telecommunications technology, refers to a set of standards and technologies that enable faster data transfer and improved mobile communication capabilities compared to its predecessors. It provides increased bandwidth, allowing users to access the internet, make video calls, and utilize various data-intensive applications on their mobile devices.

4G

4G, also known as the fourth generation of mobile telecommunications technology, represents a significant advancement over previous generations. It offers faster data transfer speeds, lower latency, and improved network capacity, enabling users to enjoy high-quality streaming, video conferencing, and rapid data downloads on their mobile devices. 

5G

5G, the fifth generation of mobile telecommunications technology, represents a significant leap forward in wireless connectivity. It offers exceptionally fast data transfer speeds, ultra-low latency, and increased network capacity, enabling a wide range of transformative applications and services. 

AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting)

AAA is a framework or system used in computer security and network management. Authentication verifies the identity of users or devices attempting to access a network or system. Authorization determines the level of access or permissions granted to authenticated users. Accounting tracks and records the usage and activities of users, helping with billing, auditing, and resource management.

Diameter Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) Server

A Diameter AAA Server is a component used in telecommunications networks for managing authentication, authorization, and accounting processes. It is a central authority that handles user authentication, authorizes access to network services, and records accounting information such as usage data and billing details. 

Diameter Edge Agent (DEA) 

A Diameter Edge Agent (DEA) is a component used in telecommunications networks to facilitate communication between different Diameter-based network elements. It acts as a proxy or intermediary, allowing Diameter messages to traverse network boundaries and enabling interoperability between various Diameter implementations. DEAs play a crucial role in ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient routing of Diameter traffic within complex network architectures.

Diameter Foreign Agent (FA)

A Diameter Foreign Agent (FA) is a component used in telecommunications networks to facilitate roaming and interconnection between different service providers. It acts as an intermediary between a home network and a visited network, allowing subscribers to access services while roaming. The FA is responsible for authenticating and authorizing roaming users and providing accounting information to the home network.

Diameter Home Agent (HA)

Diameter Home Agent (HA) is a component in telecom networks that manages authentication, authorization, and accounting processes in a subscriber’s home network. It stores subscriber profiles, handles authentication and authorization requests, and provides secure access to network resources while ensuring accurate accounting of subscriber activities.

Diameter Intermediary (DI)

Diameter Intermediary (DI) refers to a component used in Diameter-based networks to facilitate communication between different Diameter entities. It acts as a mediator, intercepting and processing Diameter messages exchanged between Diameter clients and servers. The DI is responsible for handling protocol conversions, message routing, and enforcing policy and security rules within the Diameter infrastructure.

Diameter Mobile Access Gateway (MAG)

Diameter Mobile Access Gateway (MAG) is a component in telecom networks that enables secure access for mobile subscribers. It acts as an intermediary between devices and core network elements, providing authentication, authorization, and accounting services. The MAG handles requests, establishes secure connections, and enables seamless roaming and mobility management.

Diameter Multimedia Resource Function (MRF)

Diameter Multimedia Resource Function (MRF) is a component used in multimedia communication networks to handle media resources and services. It provides functionalities such as media processing, conferencing, transcoding, and mixing. The MRF utilizes the Diameter protocol for authentication, authorization, and accounting purposes, ensuring secure and controlled access to multimedia resources.

Diameter Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF)

Diameter Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) is a key component in telecommunications networks that governs policy enforcement and charging for network services. It enables dynamic policy control and real-time charging for subscribers based on predefined rules and policies. The PCRF interacts with various network elements using the Diameter protocol to enforce Quality of Service (QoS), manage network resources, and facilitate accurate charging and billing.

Diameter Routing Agent (DRA)

Diameter Routing Agent (DRA) is a critical component used in telecommunications networks to handle Diameter-based signaling traffic. It acts as a central routing entity that receives, processes, and routes Diameter messages between different network elements. The DRA ensures efficient message delivery, performs protocol translations, and manages Diameter-based policies and rules.

Diameter Server

A Diameter Server is a component used in telecommunications networks that implements the Diameter protocol to facilitate authentication, authorization, and accounting processes. It serves as a central server responsible for handling Diameter messages exchanged between various network elements. The Diameter Server plays a crucial role in managing user sessions, enforcing security policies, and ensuring accurate accounting of network resources.

Diameter Signaling Controller (DSC)

A Diameter Signaling Controller (DSC) is a component used in telecommunications networks to manage and control Diameter signaling traffic. It acts as a centralized entity that handles the routing, scaling, and processing of Diameter messages exchanged between various network elements. The DSC optimizes Diameter signaling, ensures efficient message delivery, and provides functionalities such as load balancing, traffic management, and protocol interworking.

Inter-Operator Billing

Inter-Operator Billing refers to the process of financial settlement and invoicing between different telecommunication service providers. It involves calculating and reconciling the charges incurred when subscribers from one operator utilize services or resources provided by another operator. Inter-Operator Billing enables accurate financial transactions and revenue sharing among operators, ensuring a fair and transparent system for exchanging services and resources.

IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)

IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) is a framework for delivering integrated multimedia services over IP networks. It enables the integration of voice, video, and messaging across different devices and networks. With IMS, service providers can offer advanced applications like VoIP, video calling, and multimedia conferencing while ensuring seamless communication and compatibility between networks and devices.

ISP networks

ISP networks, or Internet Service Provider networks, are the infrastructure and systems operated by companies that provide internet connectivity to end-users. These networks enable individuals, businesses, and organizations to access and utilize the internet for various purposes, such as browsing websites, sending emails, streaming media, and conducting online transactions. 

Mobility Management

Mobility Management involves techniques and processes to ensure seamless connectivity for mobile devices within a telecom network. It includes tasks like tracking device location, managing handoffs between base stations, and optimizing network resources for uninterrupted service. Mobility Management enables features like roaming, handovers, and efficient resource utilization for a smooth mobile experience.

Mobility Management Entity

Mobility Management Entity (MME) is a key component in LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and 5G networks that handle mobility-related functions. It is responsible for tracking and managing the mobility of user devices, including subscriber authentication, session management, and handover control. The MME plays a crucial role in ensuring seamless mobility, efficient resource allocation, and secure connectivity within the mobile network.

Network Slicing

Network Slicing is a technology that virtually divides a physical network into separate logical networks called slices. Each slice is customized to meet the unique needs of different applications or user groups. It allows network operators to allocate dedicated resources and optimize connectivity, performance, and services for diverse use cases, enhancing flexibility, efficiency, and scalability in network management. 

PCRF

PCRF, or Policy and Charging Rules Function, is a vital component in telecom networks that enforces policies and charging for network services. It enables dynamic policy control and real-time charging based on predefined rules. PCRF interacts with network elements to enforce Quality of Service, manage resources, and facilitate accurate billing.