RANAP

RANAP (Radio Access Network Application Part)^[1] protocol is used in UMTS signaling between the Core Network, which can be a MSC or SGSN, and the UTRAN. RANAP is carried over Iu-interface.

RANAP signalling protocol resides in the control plane of Radio network layer of Iu interface in the UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) protocol stack. Iu interface is the interface between RNC (Radio Network Controller) and CN (Core Network). nb. For Iu-ps transport RANAP is carried on SCTP.

Functionality

RANAP is used for the following tasks:

• Relocation
• Paging
• Radio Access Bearer Management
• Transport of signalling between a UE and the Core Network (Non Access Stratum signalling)

References