METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING MEDIATED ACCESS BETWEEN SIGNALLING NETWORKS

A method and system are disclosed for mediating signalling protocol dialogue between an internal signalling network operational domain operated by one network operator and an external signalling network operational domain operated by another network operator. One embodiment provides a method of dividing the SS7 traffic (Message Signal Units or MSUs) arriving for Mediation, into classes such that network performance requirements can be me t, wherein some message classes will receive only normal SS7 processing while others will be analyzed in detail. MSUs requiring detailed analysis must be routed to a mediation application process appropriate to that class. Another embodiment provides a method of manipulating Signalling Connection Control Part (SCCP) address parameters in the SMP in order to maintain normal SS7 message processing and routing functions while mediating individual messages . Yet another embodiment provides a method enabling the SMP to route a receive d MSU on toward its intended final destination based on information encoded in the Message Transfer Part (MTP) addresses contained in the MSU.