Protocols, Interfaces, and Architectures
Rajib Taid · 2021
This chapter presents the protocol architectures of network elements of mobile communications networks based on the Global System for Mobile Communication, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System, Long-Term Evolution, and 5G systems as defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project. Network elements of mobile communications networks are designed and developed based on a set of standard protocols and specifications as defined by the 3GPP. In a mobile communications network, the circuit-switched or packet-switched domain protocol layers of a protocol stack that belongs to a particular logical interface are classified into the following categories: control plane or signaling plane, and user plane or data plane. The procedure for initialization and configuration with protocol layer-specific data differs from one logical interface to another one. The extent and working of a particular protocol layer can be further understood from the protocol layer termination point of view.