Classifications

• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
  • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
  • H04W8/00—Network data management
  • H04W8/30—Network data restoration; Network data reliability; Network data fault tolerance

Definitions

• the present invention relates to updating a network operations database in a communications network, for example a visitor location register (VLR), with data from a subscriber database, for example a home location register
• VLR visitor location register
• HLR home location register
• the invention is suited to updating a VLR with data from a HLR in a mobile communications network using standard Mobile
• MAP Application Part
• the HLR is a central subscriber database in a mobile communications network that contains details of each mobile phone subscriber that is authorized to use network services provided by the network operator.
• An example of such a network is a Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) network.
• GSM Global System for Mobile communications
• the HLR stores details of every subscription which corresponds to a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) issued by the network operator.
• SIM Subscriber Identity Module
• the details are stored in the form of subscriber records that are keyed by a unique identifier associated with the SIM called an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI).
• SIM Subscriber Identity Module
• the Mobile Switching Centre is a primary service delivery node for networks such as GSM, responsible for coordinating the setting-up of calls to and from subscribers.
• the VLR is linked to an MSC, and in charge of temporarily storing subscription data for those subscribers currently situated in the service area of the corresponding MSC/VLR, as well as holding data on their location at a more precise level than the HLR.
• a VLR function is always integrated with each MSC.
• the data stored in the MSC/VLR have either been received from the HLR, or collected from the mobile station (MS).
• the MSC/VLR may contact the HLR using a subscriber identity code (either the subscriber's IMSI or Mobile Subscriber ISDN (MSISDN)) or the HLR global title.
• MSISDN Mobile Subscriber ISDN
• the subscriber identity code is normally used when the HLR global title is unknown to the MSC/VLR e.g. during authentication request, location updates, and call and SMS termination when only the MSISDN of the called party is known.
• the HLR global title is used for subsequent operations after a location update.
• the MAP is the application- layer protocol for signaling between fixed infrastructure nodes of a mobile communications network, such as the HLR, MSC, VLR, etc, according to MAP standard 29:002
• HLRs may become insufficient to maintain subscriber data necessitating the addition of data and/or transaction capacity in additional HLRs. If a HLR becomes full, it may be desirable, for load balancing, to partition the HLR and to transfer responsibility of storing some of its data to another HLR. Furthermore, as the quality (including continuity) of service demanded increases, backup facilities may be desirable to restore and maintain continuity of service in case of HLR breakdown.
• a third situation where subscriber migration may be desirable is when a newly developed HLR is deployed. Moreover, when a subscriber upgrades his/her service package to include a service not supported by its serving HLR, subscriber migration to another HLR which supports the service may be desirable. There may be other reasons why subscriber migration is desired.
• FIG. 1 illustrates a known method for synchronizing subscriber data between a MSC/VLR and a HLR in a GSM system when the HLR is recovering from a fault.
• the HLR restores itself to a previously saved state.
• the HLR sends a MAP Reset request message to all the MSC/VLRs in which at least one of the HLR subscribers is known to be located as indicated by the salvaged records at step 105.
• the MAP Reset signalling message identifies the HLR for all subscribers in the MSC/VLR which are affected.
• the MSC/VLR marks all affected records as to be checked with the HLR. Marking the records will force the MSC/VLR to perform a MAP Update Location service to update the HLR at the next authenticated radio contact with each affected mobile station (MS).
• the MSC/VLR waits for an authenticated radio contact from the affected mobile subscriber.
• the MSC/VLR determines whether it has received such an authenticated radio contact. If the MSC/VLR has not received an authenticated radio contact from the concerned mobile subscriber, the MSC/VLR continues to wait in accordance with step 115.
• the MSC/VLR transmits a MAP Update Location message to the HLR indicating that the MSC/VLR is serving the affected mobile subscriber at step 125.
• the MAP Update Location message carries (among other information) the subscriber identity and enough information for the HLR to know how to find routing data for the setting up of a mobile terminating call, i.e. the SS7 address of the MSC/VLR.
• the HLR determines whether to accept to register the MS in the new MSC/VLR or not by consideration of the subscription limitations of the user.
• the answer from the HLR is carried to the MSC/VLR in a MAP Update Location Result message in accordance with step 135. If the requesting MSC/VLR receives a negative answer, it erases all information relative to the subscriber. Otherwise and if necessary, it enters the subscriber in its database. Normally, the HLR will then provide the subscriber information the MSC/VLR needs. This is done by sending one or more MAP Insert Subscriber Data messages in accordance with step 140, which is acknowledged by the MSC/VLR through a MAP Insert Subscriber Data Result message.
• a problem with the MAP Reset procedure is that, since a range of IMSIs is always identified in the MAP Reset message transmitted between a HLR and a MSC/VLR, subscriber data relating to all IMSIs of the range are updated. For example in HLR fault recovery as described above, all IMSIs in the HLR's backup memory, or a group of subscribers whose IMSI leading digits are equal to that of the IMSIs specified in the MAP Reset request, are transmitted, and MAP Location Update messages are subsequently transmitted for every IMSI. This method therefore generates a vast amount of wasted signaling if not all subscriber data in a range need to be synchronized between the HLR and all relevant MSC/VLR.
• MAP Reset e.g. MAP Location Update messages
• MAP Reset procedures are also time-consuming, during which normal network subscriber service for relevant subscribers may be interrupted or degraded. MAP Reset procedures rely on triggers from subscribers to initiate location update and thus the synchronization between HLRs and MSC/VLRs. The duration of a MAP reset depends on the number of subscribers affected and their habits e.g. the frequency a subscribers originates events that cause the MSC/VLR to restore its data.
• FIG. 2 illustrates a known method in a GSM system when a MSC/VLR is recovering from a fault using MAP Provide Roaming Number Request messages and MAP Restore Data messages.
• the MSC/VLR which does not have a non-volatile backup memory for its dynamic subscriber data, deletes all IMSI records which remain in its dynamic memory.
• the MSC/VLR waits for contact from the HLR associated with a mobile subscriber. The MSC/VLR determines whether it has received a MAP Provide
• the MSC/VLR determines whether the MSC/VLR has experienced a fault in accordance with step 415. If the MSC/VLR has not received a MAP Provide Roaming Number Request message, the MSC/VLR continues to wait for a contact from the HLR in accordance with step 405. If the MSC/VLR has received a request for roaming number from the HLR, the MSC/VLR sends a MAP Restore Data message, including an identifying code for the concerned subscriber whose data is being restored, to the HLR indicating that the MSC/VLR has experienced a fault in accordance with step 415.
• MAP restore data process is normally invoked by the VLR on receipt of a MAP Provide Roaming Number message, which provides an IMSI unknown to the VLR, or an IMSI known to the VLR but with the indicator "Confirmed by HLR" set to "Not confirmed”.
• MAP Restore Data messages are always sent in response to a MAP Provide Roaming Number message, because all IMSI records in the MSC/VLR have been deleted in step 400.
• the HLR will then send all data to the MSC/VLR that are to be stored in the subscriber's IMSI record contained in one or more MAP Insert Subscriber Data messages in accordance with step 420.
• the above MSC/VLR fault recovery procedure is preformed for all subscribers in the MSC/VLR's dynamic memory.
• the MSC/VLR deletes all its IMSI records from its dynamic memory.
• MAP Provide Roaming Number Request messages and MAP Restore Data messages are sent for every subscriber in its dynamic memory.
• This method therefore generates a vast amount of wasted signaling and resource usage if not all subscriber data need to be synchronized between the MSC/VLR and all relevant HLRs, especially if the network comprises a mapping network node to intercept and redirect messages to HLRs.
• This procedure may be time-consuming, during which normal network subscriber service such as short message service (SMS) termination, location based services for relevant subscribers are interrupted or degraded.
• SMS short message service
• MAP Provide Roaming Number Request messages are normally only sent from the HLR to the MSC/VLR during the interrogation stage of a mobile terminating call routing, i.e. when someone calls the MS, using e.g. another MS or a landline.
• MAP restore takes place depends on some unrelated external processes initiated at the MS or the HLR, for example first call attempt termination on the subscribers or first call originated by subscribers.
• a network operations database for example a VLR
• a subscriber database for example a HLR
• a method for updating a network operations database with data from a subscriber database for a subscriber comprising: establishing at a first network node, separate from a network operations node, that at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database; and in response to said establishing, initiating the transmission of a data access signaling message to the network operations node, the data access signaling message including an identifying code for the subscriber, the data access signaling message being of a type of signaling message which causes the network operations node: a) to attempt to access current data for the subscriber in the network operations database; and b) if the at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database, to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from the subscriber database.
• a network operations database for example a VLR
• a subscriber database for example a HLR
• subscriber migration refers to subscriber data migration from one subscriber database to another subscriber database.
• a data access signaling message is transmitted to a network operations node before the system has established that the current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database.
• Embodiments of the present invention subvert this procedure by sending such a message even once it has been established that the relevant data is unavailable.
• the network operations node obtains current data from the subscriber database by transmitting a data obtain signaling message to the subscriber database.
• the data obtain signaling message is a MAP Restore Data message.
• the establishing comprises: transmitting a data deletion signaling message to the network operations node, thereby causing deletion of the data relating to the subscriber from the network operations database.
• the data deletion signaling message is a MAP Cancel Location message.
• the data access signaling message is a MAP Provide Roaming Number message.
• MAP Provide Roaming Number messages. At least some of these messages are typically used in processes other than in updating a network operations database, for example a VLR, with data from a subscriber database, for example a HLR, for a subscriber.
• a network operations database for example a VLR
• subscriber database for example a HLR
• the first network node is preferably programmed so as to handle these standard messages in a non-conventional way.
• a network operations node for example a MSC
• a network operations node for example a MSC
• the standard response being transmitting a MAP Restore Data message to a subscriber database to obtain current data relating to the subscriber.
• the method comprises transferring responsibility of storing data relating to a subscriber from a first subscriber database to a second subscriber database, prior to the network operations database obtaining the data from the second subscriber database for the subscriber.
• a network operations database can thus be synchronized with subscriber data in a subscriber database on an individual subscriber basis, e.g. during subscriber migration to ensure that subscribers can receive calls and messages without degradation of service.
• the establishing comprises: receiving a data update signaling message, the data update signaling message indicating that the subscriber is currently being served by a different network operations node.
• the present invention can thus be used to switch serving network operations nodes for a subscriber from a network operations node of one network to a network operations node of another network. This can reduce cost associated with using a network operations node of a visited network.
• a message processing system responsive to the receipt of an identifying code for a subscriber, and a network operations database identity, arranged to transmit a first message to a network operations node thereby causing deletion of at least some current data relating to the subscriber from the network operations database; and, responsive to the receipt of a second message indicating the completion of said deletion, to initiate the transmission of a third message to the network operations node providing the network operations node with the identifying code for the subscriber such that the network operations node is caused to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from a subscriber database.
• a method for subscriber migration from a first subscriber database to a second subscriber database comprising: 1) transferring responsibility of storing data relating to a subscriber from the first subscriber database to the second subscriber database;
• Figure 1 is a flow chart showing a known method for synchronizing subscriber data between a MSC/VLR and a HLR in a GSM system when the HLR is recovering from a fault.
• Figure 2 is a flow chart showing a known method for synchronizing subscriber data between a MSC/VLR and a HLR in a GSM system when the MSC/VLR is recovering from a fault.
• Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a communications network within which embodiments of the invention may operate.
• Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the communications network shown in Figure 3.
• Figure 5 is a flow chart showing a schema relating to the present invention.
• Figure 6 is a signaling chart showing an embodiment of the present invention for updating a MSC/VLR with data from a HLR.
• Figure 7 signaling chart showing another embodiment of the present invention for updating a MSC/VLR with data from a HLR.
• Embodiments of the invention are concerned with updating a network operations database, for example a VLR, with data from a subscriber database, for example a HLR, for a subscriber. Some embodiments are concerned with updating a network operations database with data from a subscriber database for a subscriber during subscriber migration. Further embodiments relate triggering a network switch of a subscriber, which includes transferring responsibility from a network operations database of one network to a network operations database of another network and/or transferring responsibility from a network operations node of one network to a network operations node of another network.
• Embodiments of the invention may use standard MAP signaling messages. This allows the implementation of the present invention on legacy equipment and new equipment alike.
• FIG. 3 shows a mobile communications network 10, such as a GSM network, comprising a network operations node, for example an MSC/VLR 2 connected via communications links to a number of base station controllers (BSCs) 4.
• BSCs base station controllers
• the BSCs 4 are dispersed geographically across areas served by the MSC/VLR 2 and, as is known in the art, each BSC 4 controls one or more base transceiver stations (BTSs) 6 located remote from, and connected by, further communications links to, the BSC 4.
• BTSs base transceiver stations
• Each BTS 6 transmits radio signals to, and receives radio signals from, MSs 8 which are in an area (known as a "cell") served by that BTS 6.
• the MCS/VLR 2 is also connected via communications links to other MSC/VLRs (not shown), in the remainder of the communications system 10, and to a public switched telephone network (PSTN), public data network (such as the Internet), etc. which are not illustrated.
• PSTN public switched telephone network
• the network is provided with a subscriber database, for example a HLR 12, which is arranged to provide the MSC/VLR 2 with data relating to a user upon request (typically populating a network operations database, for example a VLR, which is part of, or accessible by, the switching part of the MSC/VLR 2).
• the MSC/VLR 2 is capable of handling service provision for both post-pay or contract users and prepaid users of the network in the area it serves.
• users may originate or receive a range of data, including multimedia, video, voice, data or fax calls or sessions, short messages using the SMS, email messages, enhanced or multimedia messages, and may access data resources over private or public data networks such as the Internet.
• Signaling and data in respect of services provided to MSs 8 are routed via MSC 2, and delivery of SMS messages is handled by store-and-forward nodes such as SMSC 20.
• the telecommunications network 10 comprises a provisioning system 16, which is capable of independently accessing various network control nodes (such as the HLR 12), triggering updates and modifications to the data stored therein.
• the provisioning system 16 can be implemented as an intelligent network node in the form of a Service Control Point (SCP) or as an Open Services Architecture (OSA) node; accordingly it can be configured to receive request messages using the MAP, INAP, CAMEL, XML or LDAP protocols. It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the configuration, and thus messaging protocols, will depend on the network communications protocols provided in the network.
• the HLR is a central subscriber database that contains details of each subscriber that is authorized to use the GSM network 10 in the form of subscriber records.
• FIG 4 whilst Figure 3 depicts HLR 12 as a single database it can be, and typically is, maintained as separate databases 12a ... 12f.
• the HLR stores details of every SIM card issued by the network operator; each SIM has a unique identifier called an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) which is one of the primary keys to each subscriber record.
• IMSI International Mobile Subscriber Identity
• the IMSI is an identifier that is internal to the network 10 and used to identify one or more devices within the network 10.
• each HLR record includes the telephone numbers used to make and receive calls to the mobile phone, known as MSISDNs.
• MSISDNs are external identifiers for use outside of the network to route communications to one or more said devices within the network.
• the HLR stores data identifying network services accessible by a given subscriber.
• the network may comprise a further HLR 14. Whilst the further HLR 14 is shown as a separate database in the Figures it will be appreciated that it can be a specific portion of a particular HLR.
• the telecommunications network 10 also comprises a Service Location Register (SLR) 15, which intercepts all MAP messages destined for HLR 12, 14 and determines to which physical database (or portion 12a ... 12f) of the HLR the MAP message should be directed.
• SLR Service Location Register
• the SLR 15 performs a look-up function based on the IMSI contained within the MAP request message so as to identify which physical HLR 12a ... 12f holds subscriber records corresponding to the requesting device 8.
• Figure 5 illustrates a general schema of the present invention.
• the invention is concerned with updating a network operations database, for example a VLR, with data from a subscriber database, for example a HLR, for a subscriber in a mobile communications network.
• a network operations database for example a VLR
• a subscriber database for example a HLR
• step 500 it is established, at a first network node, separate from a network operations node, that at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database.
• the network operations database may be linked to one or more network operations nodes and in charge of temporarily storing subscription data for those subscribers currently situated in a service area, as well as holding data on their location at a more precise level than the subscriber database, such as the current Location Area Identity (LAI).
• LAI may identify under which BSC the MS is currently receiving radio service. This information may be used in the call setup process.
• Other data stored may include an identifying code for a subscriber, e.g. the IMSI; authentication data; MSISDN; network services that the subscriber is allowed to access; Access Point (GPRS) subscriber; and the subscriber database address of the subscriber.
• At least some current data relating to the subscriber may not be available in the network operations database for various reasons, including: no data relating to the subscriber is stored; data relating to the subscriber is stored but marked as not up-to-date or not confirmed; or some data relating to the subscriber is stored and current while some data is missing or marked as not up-to-date or not confirmed.
• the fact that at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database can be established at a first network node positively or passively.
• An example of positive establishing is to delete at least some current data relating to the subscriber from the network operations database.
• Another example of positive establishing is to mark at least some of the data relating to the subscriber available in the network operations database as not up to date or as missing some key data.
• An example of passive establishing is to ascertain at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database, for example, from information contained in a signaling message transmitted to the first network node.
• step 505 in response to said establishing, the transmission of a data access signaling message, which includes an identifying code for the subscriber, to the network operations node is initiated thereby causing the network operations node to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from the subscriber database.
• the data access signaling message is of a type of signaling message which causes the network operations node, firstly, to attempt to access current data for the subscriber in the network operations database.
• the data access attempt may be a data read attempt, a data write attempt, a data delete attempt or a combination of any two or more of these types of access attempts.
• the data access signaling message is also of a type of signaling message which causes the network operations node, secondly, if the at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database, to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from the subscriber database.
• this establishment step enables a controlled update of the network operations database with data from the subscriber database and synchronization between the two databases. It further enables a controlled update on on individual subscriber basis.
• the network operator thus has the capability to restore data an individual subscriber basis and control over the date/time the data restoration takes place i.e. the data restoration takes places when requested by the operator and does not depend on subscriber habits and/or usage of services.
• Embodiments of the present invention are concerned with updating a network operations database, for example a VLR, with data from a subscriber database, for example a HLR, for a subscriber during subscriber migration or when switching serving network operations nodes, for example MSCs, for a subscriber from a network operations node of one network to a network operations node of another network.
• a network operations database for example a VLR
• HLR subscriber database
• MSCs serving network operations nodes
• a network operations database examples include a serving GPRS support node (SGSN), a SLR or a gateway location register (GLR) and other examples of a subscriber database include a home subscriber server (HSS), a SLR or a GLR.
• SGSN serving GPRS support node
• SLR Serving GPRS support node
• GLR gateway location register
• HSS home subscriber server
• SLR Serving GPRS support node
• GLR gateway location register
• the subscriber migration method of the invention is described with reference to Fig 6 and the method ensures that subscribers can access normal network services such as receiving calls and messages without degradation of service during subscriber migration.
• the HLR stores subscriber and system data including service feature information for subscribers and current location area data (the MSC and the VLR).
• the MSC/VLR requests a subscriber's data to be downloaded from an HLR into the MSC/VLR when that subscriber moves into the local area. This data enables the MSC/VLR to determine features subscribed to the subscriber for example and other subscriber information.
• the embodiment as illustrated in Fig 6 provides a method and system for subscriber migration from a first HLR 14 to a second HLR 12 overcoming the limitations of existing subscriber migration methods.
• the embodiment is discussed in relation to HLRs and MSC/VLRs; however it is to be understood that it can be applied to other subscriber databases, network operations nodes, and/or network operations databases of a mobile communications network.
• a subscriber database is a HSS while another example of a network operations database is a GLR or a SGSN.
• the first network node 22 does not wait for a MS to initiate location update procedures or for a HLR to receive a mobile terminating call and the method can be performed on an individual subscriber basis. This allows for normal network subscriber service which is not interrupted for a long period of time thus subscribers can for example receive calls and messages without degradation of service during subscriber migration from one HLR to another HLR.
• an IT provisioning system 16 is instructed to transfer responsibility of storing data relating to a subscriber from a first HLR 14 to the second HLR 12 at step 200, prior to the MSC/VLR 2 obtaining current data from the second HLR 12 for the subscriber.
• the IT provisioning system 16 is preferably instructed by a second network node 34 transmitting an instruction signaling message to the IT provisioning system 16.
• the signaling message may contain an identity for the first HLR and/or an identity for the second HLR, such as the global titles thereof.
• the second network node 34 can be an administrative network node handling for example the transmission of subscriber data from one HLR to another for load balancing between the HLRs, to transfer subscriber data between a backup HLR and a normal service HLR, or to deploy a newly developed HLR.
• the second network node 34 can alternatively be a customer service network node handling for example upgrading subscriber service. Other types of network nodes for other purposes are also possible for the second network node 34.
• the second network node 34 may be implemented as part of the first HLR 14 or another existing network node.
• the IT provisioning system 16 then obtains information relating to the subscriber from a first HLR 14.
• the information may include an identifying code for the subscriber, a MSC/VLR identity, an identity for a second HLR such as the global title of the second HLR and/or other subscriber data typically stored in a HLR.
• An example of such an identifying code for the subscriber is an IMSI.
• Subscriber data typically stored in a HLR may include an identifying code for the subscriber (e.g. IMSI), MSISDN numbers, network services that the subscriber has requested or been given, GPRS settings to allow the subscriber to access packet service, current location of subscriber (MSC/VLR and/or SGSN) and/or Call divert settings applicable for each associated MSISDN.
• the IT provisioning system 16 preferably obtains the information relating to the subscriber from a first HLR 14 by transmitting a data request signaling message from the IT provisioning system 16 to the first HLR 14 at step 202 and receiving a data request result signaling message from the HLR 14 at step 205.
• the IT provisioning system 16 can be provided with some or all of the above mentioned information relating to the subscriber by an intermediate network node rather than directly from the first HLR 14. Some or all the information may alternatively be provided by another network node other than the first HLR 12, for example the second HLR identity may be provided by the second network node 34 at step 200. Furthermore, the IT provisioning system 16 may be implemented as part of the first HLR 14 or another existing network node.
• the IT provisioning system 16 transmits the identifying code for the subscriber, and at least some, but preferably all, of the other subscriber data typically stored in a HLR to the second HLR 12 directly at step 207 or indirectly using the identity for the second HLR.
• the information is provided to the second HLR 12 so that the HLR 12 can respond to an authentication request relating to the subscriber at step 245, provide current data relating to the subscriber to a MSC/VLR at step 255 and/or assume responsibility of storing data relating to a subscriber from a first HLR to a second HLR.
• a mapping network node 15 such as a SLR or a Signaling Transfer Point (STP) providing a service for mapping a subscriber identity code to a HLR identity.
• a subscriber identity code (either IMSI or MSISDN) has to be used by the MSC/VLR to contact the HLR when only the subscriber identity code, but not the HLR global title, is known to the MSC/VLR, as is the case during subscriber migration from one HLR to another. For these operations addressed on the subscriber identity code it may be necessary to perform a look up to find out the HLR global title where the subscriber record is stored using a mapping network node 15.
• the mapping network node 15 is updated at step 206.
• the updating of the mapping network node comprises: updating the HLR identity (i.e. the HLR global title) mapped for the subscriber from an identity for the first HLR 14 to an identity for the second HLR 12.
• the mapping network node 15 is provisioned with the network identity of the second HLR 12, together with a rule that causes the mapping network node 15 to send signaling messages corresponding to all relevant IMSIs to the second HLR 12.
• the IT provisioning system 16 may transmit all or some of the information to the second HLR 12 indirectly via the mapping network node 15. However, the information can alternatively be transferred to the second HLR 12 directly at step 207, i.e. not via the mapping network node 15, before, after or at the same time as updating the mapping network node 15.
• a confirmation signaling message is transmitted from the second HLR 12 to the IT provisioning system 16 at step 208.
• subscriber's HLR reference in the VLR i.e. the global title of the subscriber's HLR, in particular, becomes out of date and needs to be updated.
• the HLR global title is needed because otherwise at least some subscriber originated MAP traffic which is routed to the HLR using this reference would end up in the old HLR and therefore would be rejected. In order to ensure that these operations can be carried out as normal the subscriber's HLR global title needs to be refreshed to that of the new HLR.
• the MSC/VLR is triggered to refresh subscriber data from the second HLR by sending a message.
• the second HLR identity has been provided so that the message can be delivered to the second HLR.
• the second HLR identity is provided to the SLR 15 in this embodiment. However, it can be provided to another network node, such as the MSC/VLR.
• the IT provisioning system 16 After receiving the confirmation that the second HLR 12 has assumed responsibility at step 208, the IT provisioning system 16 transmits an identifying code for the subscriber and an identity for a MSC/VLR 2 to a first network node 22 at step 210 using an identity for the first network node provided for example by the first HLR 14 at step 205, by the second network node 34 at step 200, or by another network node.
• This information is provided to the first network node 22 so that the first network node 22 can transmit a data deletion signaling message to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 215, thereby causing deletion of at least some current data relating to the subscriber from the MSC/VLR at 222, and/or so that the identifying code for the subscriber can be provided to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 230.
• the first network node 22 may be a message processing node, responsive to the receipt of an identifying code for a subscriber and a MSC/VLR identity in accordance with step 210, arranged to transmit a first message to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 215 using the MSC/VLR identity, thereby causing deletion of at least some current data relating to the subscriber from the MSC/VLR 2 at step 220; and, responsive to the receipt of a second message indicating the completion of the deletion at step 225, to initiate the transmission of a third message to the MSC/VLR 2 providing the MSC/VLR 2 with the identifying code at step 230 such that the MSC/VLR 2 is caused to obtain current subscriber data relating to the subscriber from a HLR 12.
• the first message may be a data deletion signaling message, thereby causing deletion of at least some current data relating to the subscriber from the MSC/VLR.
• the MSC/VLR 2 transmits a second message to the first network node to inform the first network node that the date has been deleted from the MSC/VLR 2.
• the first network node therefore establishes that at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the network operations database, since it has been deleted.
• MAP Cancel Location message An example of such a data deletion signaling message is a MAP Cancel Location message.
• a corresponding example of such a second message is a MAP Cancel Location Result message.
• MAP Cancel Location messages are normally transmitted from the HLR to a previous MSC/VLR to delete relevant subscriber data from the previous MSC/VLR, after location update procedures are completed from a MS to a new MSC/VLR and then from the MSC/VLR to the HLR.
• MAP Cancel Location Result messages are standard responding messages to MAP Cancel Location messages.
• MAP Delete Subscriber Data message Another example of a data deletion signaling message which can be used for the purpose of this invention is MAP Delete Subscriber Data message. It may be used to remove key parts of the subscriber data in the MSC/VLR or SGSN but not to cancel the subscriber record.
• the third message is a data access signaling message, being of the type described above.
• the data access signaling message is a MAP Provide Roaming Number message. It is an example of a read data message of a type suitable for use in the present invention.
• MAP Provide Roaming Number messages are normally transmitted from a HLR to a MSC/VLR during interrogation of the HLR in establishing a mobile terminating call. It contains the subscriber's IMSI, and in the case of multi-numbering, the network bearer capability needed for the required service.
• the MSC/VLR In response to receiving the data access signaling message, the MSC/VLR attempts to access the subscriber record indicated by the subscriber identity code in the message and it is determined at the MSC/VLR 2 that at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the MSC/VLR 2 at step 235.
• the IMSI for the subscriber is either unknown to the VLR, or the IMSI is known to the VLR but the indicator "Confirmed by HLR" is set to "Not confirmed”.
• the MSC/VLR 2 obtains current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12.
• the MSC/VLR may transmit a request authentication signaling message to the HLR 12 at step 240.
• a request authentication signaling message is a MAP Send Authentication Request message.
• a request authentication result signaling message may then be transmitted from the HLR 12 to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 245.
• An example of such a request authentication result signaling message is a MAP Send Authentication Response message.
• the request authentication signaling message and the request authentication result signaling message may be transmitted via the mapping network node 15 if it is provided in the network.
• An alternative action to authentication is ciphering setting.
• the MSC/VLR 2 obtains current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12 by transmitting a data obtain signaling message to the HLR 12 at step 250.
• the data obtain signaling message may be transmitted via the mapping network node 15 if it is provided in the network.
• An example of such a data obtain signaling message is a MAP Restore Data message.
• the HLR 12 provides current subscriber data, in particular the global title of the subscriber's HLR, at step 255 to the MSC/VLR 2 in response to the receipt of the data obtain signaling message.
• the provision of current data is preferably achieved by transmitting a data insert signaling message.
• the data insert signaling message can be transmitted via the mapping network node 15 if it is provided in the network.
• An example of such a data insert signaling message is a MAP Insert Subscriber Data message.
• the MSC/VLR 2 is updated at step 260, after obtaining current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12. Normal network services can thereafter be provided to the subscriber.
• the third message transmitted at step 230 is a write data message.
• An example of such a third message is a message resembling a location update normally transmitted from a MS to a network operations database, e.g. a VLR.
• the MSC/VLR 2 then sends a data obtain signaling message to the HLR 12 at step 250.
• An example of such a data obtain signaling message is a MAP Location Update message.
• subscriber data in particular the global title of the subscriber's HLR 12, is provided to the VLR in a data insert signaling message from the HLR to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 255.
• An example of such a data insert signaling message is a MAP Insert Subscriber Data message. Again authentication can be performed at steps 240 and 245 before the MSC/VLR 2 sending a data obtain signaling message to the HLR at step 250 as discussed above.
• Figure 7 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention for updating a MSC/VLR with data from a HLR for a subscriber so as to switch serving MSC/VLRs for the subscriber from a MSC/VLR of one network to another MSC/VLR of another network.
• the embodiment is discussed in relation to HLRs and MSC/VLRs; however it is to be understood that it can be applied to other subscriber databases, network operations nodes, and/or network operations databases of a mobile communications network.
• a network subscriber database is a HSS.
• network operations nodes/databases other than MSC/VLRs such as SGSN may be used instead.
• the HLR 12 responsive to the receipt of the data update signaling message, the message containing an identifying code and location information for a subscriber, is arranged to determine that the subscriber is being served by a first MSC/VLR 28 of a different network PLMN 1 from that of the HLR 12 at step 305; to correlate location information for the subscriber contained in the message with information contained in the HLR 12 at step 310 so as to identify a second MSC/VLR 2 of the same network as that of the HLR 12, the second MSC/VLR 2 being able to serve the MS 8; and to cause the second MSC/VLR 2 to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12.
• the correlation step may be performed by a correlation function within the HLR 12 or otherwise linked to the HLR 12.
• the correlation step may comprise: comparing the location information for the subscriber contained in the message with location information for subscribers contained in a table in the HLR to determine a location area 32 of PLMN2, wherein the MS 8 is preferably within the location area 32 of PLMN2; and determining the identity of the MSC/VLR 2 serving the location area 32, the location area 32 may at least partially overlap with the location area 26 of PLMNl.
• the HLR may transmit information relating to the subscriber to an IT provisioning system 16 at step 315, the information including an identifying code for the subscriber and an identity for a MSC/VLR 2.
• the IT provision system 16 in response to the receipt of the information, is arranged to transmit the information to a first network node 22 at step 320. This information is provided to the first network node 22 so that the identifying code for the subscriber can be provided to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 325.
• the IT provisioning system 16 is not necessary for this embodiment and the information relating to the subscriber can be transmitted to the first network node 22 directly.
• the first network node 22 may be a message processing node.
• the MSC/VLR 2 Responsive to the receipt of an identifying code for a subscriber and a MSC/VLR identity, it is arranged to transmit a message to the MSC/VLR 2 providing the MSC/VLR 2 with the identifying code such that the MSC/VLR 2 is caused to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from a HLR 12.
• the message may be a data access signaling message, the data access signaling message including an identifying code for the subscriber, the data access signaling message being of a type as described above.
• the data access signaling message is a MAP Provide Roaming Number message.
• the MSC/VLR 2 In response to the receipt of the data access signaling message, it is determined at the MSC/VLR 2 that current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the MSC/VLR 2 at step 330; and in response to the determining, the MSC/VLR 2 obtains current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12. Before the MSC/VLR 2 obtains current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12, the MSC/VLR 2 may transmit a request authentication signaling message to the HLR 12 at step 335. An example of such a request authentication signaling message is a MAP Send Authentication Request message. A request authentication result signaling message may then be transmitted from the HLR 12 to the MSC/VLR 2 at step 340. An example of such a request authentication result signaling message is a MAP Send Authentication Response message. An alternative action to authentication is ciphering setting.
• the MSC/VLR 2 obtains current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12 by transmitting a data obtain signaling message to the HLR 12 at step 345.
• the data obtain signaling message is a MAP Restore Data message.
• Data obtain signaling messages as well as request authentication signaling messages and request authentication result signaling messages may be transmitted via a mapping network node 15 (not shown) if it is provided in the system.
• the HLR 12 provides current subscriber data to the MSC/VLR 2 at step
• the provision of current data is preferably achieved by transmitting a data insert signaling message.
• the data insert signaling message may be transmitted via the mapping network node 15 (not shown) if it is provided in the system.
• An example of such a data insert signaling message is a MAP Insert Subscriber Data message.
• the MSC/VLR 2 is updated at step 355, after obtaining current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12.
• the MSC/VLR 2 then contacts the MS 8 so as to provide service to the MS 8 at step 360.
• the MSC/VLR 2 has no valid LAI information for the MS 8 before successful establishment of the first authenticated radio contact.
• the MSC may be instructed by the HLR to send a signaling message, for example a MAP Send Info for Incoming Call message or a MAP Send Info for MT SMS message, to the VLR.
• a signaling message for example a MAP Send Info for Incoming Call message or a MAP Send Info for MT SMS message
• the VLR Upon receipt of such a message from the MSC for an MS whose subscriber data are marked as "Confirmed" by the indicator "Confirmed by HLR" but not confirmed by radio contact, the VLR invokes a "MAP Search for MS". Alternatively paging may be used to establish contact with the MS 6.
• the network operations node requires no alternation in its functionality, compared to a standard implementation.
• the network operations database for example a VLR
• the network operations database can be reprogrammed or provided originally so that responsive to the receipt of a data refresh request signaling message, it obtains subscriber data from a subscriber database, for example a HLR, regardless whether at least some current data relating to the subscriber is available in the network operations database.
• a subscriber database for example a HLR
• BICC Bill Identification Control
• SIP Session Initiation Protocol
• a mapping network node 15 can be transmitted to the second HLR directly from the IT provisioning system, the IT provisioning system having information of the identity of the second HLR.
• Data and messages can also be transmitted to the second HLR directly from the MSC/VLR, for example if the MSC/VLR is provided with the identity of the second HLR.
• An IT provisioning system 16 though preferred in at least some embodiments is not necessary for the invention.
• the IT provisioning system if present, can be implemented as part of the first HLR or another existing network node.
• a dedicated first network node 22 is not necessary for the present invention, although it is desirable. Its function can be performed by an existing network node, such as a HLR or SLR of the mobile telecommunications system.
• the HLR 12 comprises the first network node 22
• the HLR can be re-programmed to transmit a signaling message to the MSC/VLR providing the
• MSC/VLR with an identifying code for a subscriber and a rule that causes the
• the MSC/VLR to obtain current data relating to the subscriber from the HLR 12, in response to establishing at the HLR 12 that at least some current data relating to the subscriber is not available in the MSC/VLR.
• the message may be a data access signaling message as discussed above.
• a second network node 34 can be an administrative node or a customer service node. Though preferred, a second network node 34 is not necessary for the invention. Instructions can alternatively be provided to the IT provisioning system manually at the IT provisioning system 16.
• the network operations node is MSC and the network operations database is VLR and the MSC and the VLR are implemented as one single network node.
• the network operations database e.g. a VLR, can be implemented on a separate network node as that for the network operations node, e.g.
• a network operations node for the purpose of the invention can be a VLR, a MSC or a MSC/VLR while a network operations database can be a VLR.

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