GTP protocol in Mobile Networks

GTP refers to "GPRS Tunneling Protocol". It is a main protocol in 2G/3G/4G/5G mobile networks, it allows seamless data and signalling connectivity between network nodes.

GTP protocol creates tunnels between network elements to transmit user data and signalling messages between them. This ensures data and signalling messages delivery by encapsulating and forwarding them through the core network.

The following are the main variants of this protocol,

  • GTP-C (GTP Control Plane): Creates GTP-C tunnels that forwards signalling messages between network nodes.
  • GTP-U (GTP User Plane): Creates GTP-U tunnels that forwards user data traffic between network nodes.
  • GTP': Used for charging and billing functions, such as sending charging information between nodes.