GSM Network Architecture and Its Key Components

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a widely used mobile communication standard that provides a framework for mobile networks. Its network architecture is a cellular network technology that uses a combination of software and hardware to provide wireless communication. Its architecture is designed to facilitate efficient communication between mobile devices and the network. The key components of a GSM network architecture include:

1. Mobile Station (MS)

Also known as the mobile phone. Is the device used by the user to call or make messages. Its responsible for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the base station.

It has a sim card which stores user information and authentication data

2. Base Station Subsystem (BSS)

Base Transceiver Station (BTS): It’s a combination of the base station and the transceiver. This is the radio component that handles communication with the mobile stations. Its responsible for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the mobile station.

Base Station Controller (BSC): Manages multiple BTSs and Controls radio resource allocation and handovers between cells.

3. Network and Switching Subsystem (NSS)

Mobile Switching Center (MSC): Routes calls and manages mobile services. Connects calls between mobile users and the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).

Visitor Location Register (VLR): Stores temporary information about subscribers in the MSC's area. It sis responsible for storing and managing the location and the service profile of the mobile stations that are currently roaming in the network.

Home Location Register (HLR): A permanent database that contains details about subscribers, such as user profiles, service information, and current locations.

Authentication Center (AUC): It is responsible for verifying the identity of the mobile station and for generating the authentication tokens.

4. Operations Support Subsystem (OSS)

Manages network resources, monitors performance, and handles maintenance and troubleshooting. Ensures efficient operation of the GSM network.

5. Gateway Mobile Switching Center (GMSC)

Connects the GSM network to external networks, such as PSTN and other mobile networks. It is responsible for switching calls between different mobile networks.

6. Short Message Service Center (SMSC)

It manages the delivery of SMS messages, storing, forwarding and routing messages between mobile devices.

7. Operations and Maintenance Centre (OMC)

It is responsible for collecting and analyzing the network data and for performing the maintenance task.

8. Radio Network Controller (RNC)

It is responsible for managing the radio recourse, such as the frequency bands and the transmission powers.

9. Charging System

Responsible for billing and accounting for services used by subscribers, ensuring accurate charge calculations.