Starent Networks’ Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW) is a critical network function for the 4G mobile core network – known as the Evolved Packet Core (EPC). The PGW acts as the interface between the LTE network and other packet data networks, such as the Internet or SIP-based IMS networks (fixed and mobile). The PGW serves as the anchor point for intra-3GPP network mobility, as well as mobility between 3GPP and non-3GPP networks. The PGW acts as the Policy and Charging Enforcement Function (PCEF), which manages Quality of Service (QoS), online/offline flow-based charging data generation, deep-packet inspection, and lawful intercept. 

The PGW 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.

EPC specifications define a simpler, flatter network architecture. Starent’s PGW can be a standalone element or integrated with other EPC elements – the Mobility Management Entity (MME), Serving Gateway (SGW), and Release 8 Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN). This integration of multiple elements is also possible with 2G/3G functions, like the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN) or Home Agent (HA). This integration is the key to mobility and session management interworking between 2G/3G and 4G mobile networks.

By combining these functions into a single carrier-class platform, like the ST-Series, operators can reduce signaling overhead, distribute session management, and leverage the control and user plane capabilities. 

Key Features

• Integration of multiple core network functions
• Multiple instances of the PGW can enable call localization and local breakout
• High performance across all parameters – signaling, throughput, density, and latency
• Integrated In-line Services with deep-packet inspection and policy enforcement
• Support for enhanced content charging, content filtering with blacklisting, dynamic network-based traffic optimization, application detection and optimization, stateful firewall, NAT translation, and lawful intercept
• High-availability ensures subscriber satisfaction and 99.999% service uptime