Overview of telecommunications network data collection methods by probe

DOI: 10.31673/2412-4338.2024.048351

Abstract

In this article overview was provided on two systems for traffic collection in real time. These systems are Gigamon fabric solution and Huawei NetProbe. Gigamon fabric solution performs information collection/filtering/enrichment. Following solution supports SS7, IP, 3G, LTE. Information from network elements can be collected by network TAPs (splitters) or traffic port mirroring. Data processing stages with description of each function and used devices description were provided. Huawei NetProbe is used for decoding and creation of call detailed records (CDRs), storing raw signaling data and real time session tracing. This system can recognize more than 1300 protocols and applications by self-developed by Huawei Service Awareness Engine. NetProbe supports traffic collection from NGN, GSM (CS and PS), UMTS (CS and PS), LTE, IMS. DPI (Deep protocol inspection) base, used by Probe to recognize data, is released periodically to support latest protocols. In case if protocol is missing in DPI, it can be configured. System workflow was described. Detailed overview was provided on secondary devices used by both systems and risks were described during usage on telecommunications network. Example of network was provided and analyzed changes that should be done for reviewed data collection method, depending on network elements change, update or new site deployment. Following conclusions were made: Real time data collection provides a lot of pros, but also requires careful investigation before implementation of one or another method. Port mirroring can duplicate information without additional hardware installation, but can have significant impact on network element performance. TAPs can duplicate traffic with cost of signal power on both ends. Active TAP doesn’t have such issue, but power outage on such device can cause service loss; Every network change like hardware update, vendor change or new site deployment should be done with thought that data collection should be also updated. Nether less, device configuration should be changed in order to clean duplicates in messages. It increases cost and time for operation and maintenance; Data collection by Probe can be excessive due to realization, required processing resources and amount of collected information, which most probably will never be used. In such case, if only one customer from company requires it, it is better to look for cheaper and easy to use sources of data.

Keywords: GTP, CS network, PS network, information technology, VNF, LTE, IMS, SS7, VoIP, IP, Big data.

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