GPRS support nodes

GPRS support nodes The GPRS support nodes constitute the parts of the Ericsson cellular system core network that switch packet data. The two main nodes are the serving GPRS support node (SGSN) and the gateway GPRS support node (GGSN). Figure 1 shows an example of the architecture of Ericsson’s GPRS solution in a GSM cellular network. GSNs are also used for GPRS domains within a UMTS or TDMA system. Hardware and software redundancy have been designed into the platform, which enables operators to upgrade individual modules without disturbing traffic. Because the payload-carrying devices and control devices are kept separate in the platform, software upgrades usually have only a minimal effect on ongoing end-user payload transfer. Also, the n+1 redundancy of hardware in the platform makes it possible to upgrade most hardware devices without affecting traffic.