Abstract: A method and apparatus for signal mediation in a common channel signaling network are described. The method involves identifying candidate message signal units that require mediation and transmitting the candidate signal unit to an associated mediation function which performs access mediation on the contents of the candidate signal unit. The access mediation function may return one or more data packets to the network. The apparatus includes the signal transfer point, the associated mediation function and enhanced functionality in the signal transfer point for screening candidate signal units. The advantage is a more flexible and easily managed signal mediation point that removes the bulk of signal mediation from the signal transfer point so that the signal transfer point can remain dedicated to its signal transfer function.

Abstract: A method and system is 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 met, 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.

Abstract: In a telephone network having a number of telephone switching offices which have CCS7 signalling capabilities and wherein each switching office is linked to STPs (Signalling Transfer Points), or other switching offices with CCS7 signalling links, a method of detecting mass calling events using CCS7 signalling data is disclosed. Each signalling link connecting a switch is monitored. For each call, an Initial Address Message sent from an originating switch to a terminating switch is identified. The IAM is then temporarily stored in storage means. When the occurrence of a release message indicative of an unsuccessful call attempt is detected, an identification of which of the stored IAMs corresponds to the release message is made. A count is computed for each directory (DN) having an IAM with a corresponding release message indicative of an unsuccessful call attempt such that mass calling events directed to a directory number can be detected.