Protocol Diagrams

Interactive visual documentation of telecom protocol message flows and structures. Understand how protocols work internally with step-by-step flows and detailed message breakdowns.

Interactive Protocol Flows

Step-by-step visualization of protocol message exchanges between network elements. Use the playback controls to understand the timing and sequence of operations.

SS7 MAP Location Update Flow

Technical flow showing how location updates work in SS7 MAP protocol

Speed:1x
Step 1 of 813%

Step 1: Location Update Request

Mobile station sends location update request to new MSC/VLR

From: Mobile Station
To: MSC/VLR

Technical Details

  • Uses MAP (Mobile Application Part) protocol over SS7
  • TCAP (Transaction Capabilities Application Part) handles dialogue management
  • SCCP (Signalling Connection Control Part) provides addressing
  • Location Area Identity (LAI) identifies the new location area
  • Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI) may be allocated

Related Standards

3GPP TS 29.002 (MAP specification)
ITU-T Q.771-Q.775 (TCAP)
ITU-T Q.711-Q.716 (SCCP)
3GPP TS 23.012 (Location management)

Diameter Authentication Flow

Technical flow showing Diameter protocol authentication process

Speed:1x
Step 1 of 425%

Step 1: Capabilities-Exchange-Request (CER)

Client initiates capabilities exchange

From: Diameter Client
To: Diameter Server

Technical Details

  • Uses TCP or SCTP as transport protocol
  • AVPs (Attribute-Value Pairs) carry protocol data
  • Command codes identify message types
  • Application IDs specify the Diameter application
  • Session management handles ongoing transactions

Related Standards

RFC 6733 (Diameter Base Protocol)
RFC 4005 (Diameter Network Access Server)
3GPP TS 29.212 (Policy Control)
3GPP TS 29.272 (Mobility Management)

Additional Resources

Protocol Standards

  • • ITU-T Q.700 series (SS7 specifications)
  • • RFC 6733 (Diameter Base Protocol)
  • • RFC 3261 (SIP Protocol)
  • • 3GPP TS 29.060 (GTP specification)

Learning Path

  • • Start with protocol flows to understand interactions
  • • Study message structures for implementation details
  • • Reference standards for complete specifications
  • • Use our tools to practice with real messages