Starent Networks’ Evolved Packet Data Gateway (ePDG) is a critical network function for the 4G mobile core network – known as the Evolved Packet Core (EPC). The ePDG is responsible for interworking between the EPC and fixed non-3GPP networks that require secure access, such as a WiFi, LTE metro, and femtocell access networks.

The ePDG function is supported on Starent’s industry-leading ST-Series multimedia core platforms, delivering unrivaled throughput, call transaction rates, and packet processing, along with significant memory resources.

The ePDG uses IPSec/IKEv2 for secure access to the EPC network. Optionally, the ePDG can use Proxy Mobile IPv6 (PMIPv6) to interact with the Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW) when the mobile subscriber is roaming in an untrusted non-3GPP system. The ePDG is involved in tunnel authentication and authorization, transport level packet marking in the uplink, policy enforcement of Quality of Service (QoS) based on information received via Authorization, Authentication, Accounting (AAA) infrastructure, lawful interception, and other functions.

Key Features

• Integration of multiple core network functions
• Superior performance and backhaul security through IPSec tunnels, tunnel set-up rates, throughput, and deep packet inspection (DPI)
• Real-time subscriber, service, and application intelligence with enforcement through Starent’s In-line Services
• High-availability ensures subscriber satisfaction and 99.999% service uptime
• Security solution for multiple access applications – WLAN and femtocell