Difference between MTP3 and MTP3B


Signaling system 7 is a protocol that comes under the network layer of the Open System Interconnection model. It helps the node of the network to track the transfers of messages. Message Transfer protocol is the basis and is divided into many layers according to its function. The first layer represents the setting up of the network, then the second layer take care of transmissions without any error and the third layer acts like a medium between two networks. MTP3B stands for Message Transfer Protocol broadband as it transfers multiple signals concurrently.

What is MTP3?

In the SS7 protocol, there are a total of seven layers and the first three layers are occupied by MTP matched with three layers of the OSI model which literally performs the transfer of messages. The fourth layer of the SS7 protocol combines from layer 4 to layer 7 and it performs data processing functions. MTP3 means the Message Transfer Part of layer-3 which performs a function like the network layer of the OSI model.

The nodes are used for exchanging messages in the network and MTP layer 3 ensures the messages reach the destination irrespective of any malfunctions like traffic between the nodes in the network, rerouting problems, and packet loss. This means that MTP layer-3 is responsible for maintaining the reliability and integrity of the Signaling network by dynamically adjusting message routing. Data is transmitted across a fixed, dedicated channel in traditional circuit-switched networks, which MTP3 is made to function with.

Features of MTP3

  • Message Routing − It refers to the process of determining the path that a message should take through a network to reach its destination. In MTP3 (Message Transfer Part Level 3), message routing is responsible for delivering messages between Signaling points in the SS7 network.

  • Rerouting traffic − It refers to the process of dynamically adjusting the path of messages. In MTP3, this means that if a link or Signaling point fails, MTP3 will automatically reroute traffic away from the failed element to ensure that messages can still be delivered between Signaling points.

  • It provides node addressing, routing, and alternate routing.

What is MTP3B?

MTP3B means Message Transfer Part Layer-3 Broadband. Asynchronous Transfer mode is a high-speed networking technique that sends data using fixed-size cells. MTP3B is made to enable ATM functionalities and offer reliable message transport in situations with broadband signaling.

Functions Handled by MTP3B

Signaling Message Handling (SMH)

  • Discrimination Function – Checks the incoming message for its destination

  • Distribution Function – For passing messages to user parts and network management function

  • Routing function – For routing the messages on MTP2s

Signaling Network Management

  • For the purpose of managing the link, route, and traffic.

Difference between MTP3 and MTP3B

Basic Parameter

MTP3

MTP3B

Abbreviation

MTP3 stands for Message Transfer Part layer-3.

MTP3B stands for Message Transfer Part layer-3 broadband.

Abbreviation

It is used in Public Switched Telephone Networks

It is used in the Asynchronous Transfer mode network.

Frequency Range

The transmission of data over a narrow range of frequencies.

The transmission of data is done concurrently.

Type of Signal

The type of Signaling is typically used in traditional TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) based transmission systems.

The type of Signaling is designed for supporting ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) features on the basis of MTP3.

Circuit Design

MTP3 is designed to work with traditional circuit-switched networks where data is transmitted over a fixed, dedicated channel

MTP3B is based on the principles of MTP3 but has been adapted to work with broadband Signaling environments such as ATM networks.

Purpose

MTP3 is responsible for determining the path that a message should take through the network to reach its destination.

MTP3B is responsible for managing the flow of messages between Signaling points and ensuring that messages are delivered even if links fail or become congested.

Application

It is used in applications such as voice telephony, where it provides the Signaling infrastructure that enables calls to be set up and managed.

It is used in applications such as high-speed data transfer, where it provides the Signaling infrastructure that enables data to be transmitted over broadband networks.

Type of Routing

It follows a decentralized form of network, in which each node of the network is connected.

It follows a point-to-point type of routing in that messages are transferred from one node to another.

Conclusion

MTP3 makes a reliable transfer of data between the Signaling points. Message Transfer Part Layer-3 comes under the third layer of the OSI model which involves the network function of SS7 network architecture. On the other hand, MTP3 broadband has the same concept as MTP3 but has been altered in circumstances that support broadband signaling, including ATM networks.

Updated on: 18-Jul-2023

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