Abstract:
A method includes receiving a request to initiate an emergency call, directing, the mobile device to initiate the emergency call using a cellular network, receiving a network not available indication that the emergency call cannot be completed using the cellular network, selecting location information of the mobile device and requesting the emergency call be initiated by a VoIP client on the mobile device using the location information obtained from the selecting step.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0001]    The technical field generally relates to wireless communications and more specifically, to alternative routing of E-911 calls. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    There are new standards and regulations being created and enforced by the FCC for 911 calling when using Voice over IP (VoIP) applications. The National Emergency Number Association (NENA) published its interim i2 standards for mobile VoIP calls to connect callers in the IP domain with Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) supported by the existing E-911 service provider networks. NENA i2 compliance requires location information to be available for customers including the street address, floor and even cubicle number. NENA i3 addresses further specifications for an end-to-end emergency calling network. 
         [0003]    When using a VoIP client on a mobile device, the default action when E-911 is dialed is to drop the client and place the call over the mobility network. Mobility typically uses cellular triangulation on the device to get the exact location of the user; however if a customer has no or poor mobile signal but can still connect via Wi-Fi they cannot place the 911 via the VoIP application. In certain circumstances VoIP applications are implementing an option in their client to identify when there is no signal and will then place the call over the VoIP application; however this is an all or nothing approach. If the customer has minimal signal or is flapping to a point that the E-911 call cannot complete it will not automatically fail-over to the VoIP application. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    The following presents a simplified summary that describes some aspects example of the subject disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. Indeed, additional or alternative aspects and/or examples of the subject disclosure may be available beyond those described in the summary. 
         [0005]    The disclosure includes a method comprising receiving, by an application running on a mobile device, a request to initiate an emergency call, directing, by the application, the mobile device to initiate the emergency call using a cellular network, receiving, by the application, a network not available indication that the emergency call cannot be completed using the cellular network, selecting, by the application, location information of the mobile device and requesting, by the application, the emergency call be initiated by a VoIP client on the mobile device using the location information obtained from the selecting step. 
         [0006]    The method may also include wherein the requesting step is performed by the application receiving a retry command entered from the mobile device. The method may also include wherein the selecting step is based on the most accurate location information available when the emergency call is being placed, which may, for example, be based on GPS or assisted GPS functionality in the mobile device, be based on location information determined by the cellular network, or based on location determined by a VoIP client operating on the mobile device. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0007]    The following detailed description is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustration, exemplary examples are shown in the drawings; however, the subject matter is not limited to the specific elements and instrumentalities disclosed. In the drawings: 
           [0008]      FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary high level architecture illustrating mobile network and VoIP calling; 
           [0009]      FIG. 2  illustrates an exemplary over the top application for use on devices in accordance with the present disclosure; 
           [0010]      FIG. 3  illustrates an exemplary architecture for routing of E-911 calls in accordance with the present disclosure; 
           [0011]      FIG. 4  illustrates an exemplary process flow for E-911 routing in accordance with the present disclosure; 
           [0012]      FIG. 5  is a schematic of an exemplary network device. 
           [0013]      FIG. 6  depicts an exemplary communication system that provide wireless telecommunication services over wireless communication networks. 
           [0014]      FIG. 7  depicts an exemplary communication system that provide wireless telecommunication services over wireless communication networks. 
           [0015]      FIG. 8  is a diagram of an exemplary telecommunications system in which the disclosed methods and processes may be implemented. 
           [0016]      FIG. 9  is an example system diagram of a radio access network and a core network. 
           [0017]      FIG. 10  depicts an overall block diagram of an example packet-based mobile cellular network environment, such as a general packet radio service (GPRS) network. 
           [0018]      FIG. 11  illustrates an exemplary architecture of a GPRS network. 
           [0019]      FIG. 12  is a block diagram of an exemplary public land mobile network (PLMN). 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0020]    As discussed herein, this disclosure allows customers to leverage an IP path for emergency calling when the native mobility network is unavailable or unstable. The disclosure includes the automated redirection of emergency calls by an over the top application that may be interoperable with a VoIP software client running on a mobile device. It will be understood that the application may communicate with any VoIP soft client running on Apple iOS, Windows or Android mobile devices or such mobile devices running any operating system. 
         [0021]    With reference to  FIG. 1 , there is shown a system  10  highlighting several call paths to place a call from mobile device  12  to a destination device (collectively referred to as destination devices  30 ), including a computer  32 , another mobile device  34 , or a landline telephone  36 . It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the call maybe placed over the internet  14 . For a call from a mobile device  12  to another mobile device  34  in close proximity to each other, the call may be placed using the 3G/4G network  16  through tower  18 . Alternatively, the call may be placed using the 3G/4G network  16  through tower  22  and connected to the destination devices  30  through the PSTN  24 . Those skilled in the art will understand that various communication paths between mobile device  12  and destination devices  30  are possible, as well as reverse communication paths between destination devices  30  and mobile device  12 . Those paths are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure. 
         [0022]    The mobile device  12  may be any kind of mobile device or smartphone. With reference to  FIG. 2 , there is shown a functional diagram of a mobile device  112  which may, for example, have both a native cellular communications network interface  42  to communicate across the 3G/4G network  16  and to a VoIP client  44  running on the mobile device  12  for internet based calling. An E-911 application  40  may be installed and running on the mobile device  112  which communicates with and controls calling through the native cellular communications network interface  42  and the VoIP client  44 . While the 3G/4G network  16  is used as an example, any cellular communications network currently in existence or to be developed would be applicable to the present disclosure. 
         [0023]    With reference to  FIG. 3 , there is shown an exemplary system  110  for implementing the present disclosure which builds off of the general architecture system of  FIG. 1  as it may be adopted for placing of an E-911 call from mobile device  112  to a Public Safety Access Point (PSAP)  150 . The network device  112  may be configured in accordance with the functional schematic of  FIG. 2 . There is shown a “Retry” button  113  on the network device  112  which may, for example, be implemented by a soft switch configured on the display. The retry button  113  may also be a physical switch that is integral with or added to the hardware of the mobile device  112 . It will also be understood that the retry button  113  may be virtual in the sense that the retry button  113  is not activatable by a user of the mobile device  112  but rather is activate within the software running on the mobile device  112  which software may, for example, form a portion of the E-911 application  40 . 
         [0024]    Continuing with reference to  FIG. 3 , the mobile device  112  has a communications interface to the internet  14  through the VoIP client  44  and the 3G/4G network  16  through cell tower  22  using the native dialer network interface  42 , each forming a part of distinct communication paths to the PSAP  150 . With respect to the 3G/4G network  16  communication path,  FIG. 3  shows the 3G/4G network interfacing with the PSTN  24  before being connected to the PSAP  150 . 
         [0025]    Following the internet  14  communications path, the path goes through the Unified Communication Center (UCC) Complex  120 , the Unified Communication Virtualization (UCV) Hosted Customer Instance functionality  130 , through the Emergency Response System  140  with delivery of the communication to the PSAP  150 . The UCC Complex  120  may, for example, be a site set up by a government agency, municipality or a state to handle, among other things, the routing of emergency calls to the respective PSAP. The UCC Complex  120  may be designed to receive IP communications from the internet  14  through the SBC  124 , which in turn would establish a Session Internet Protocol (SIP) session with SIP servers  122 . The UCC Complex  120  may also include one or more HTTP servers  121  and communicate with the internet  14  using HTTP protocol through SLB  126 . 
         [0026]    THE UCV Hosted Customer Instance  130  may, for example, be located at the site run by a service provider which communicates with one or more UCC Complexes  120  through equipment  133  using one or more SIP trunks. The SIP trunk(s) may, for example, be passed through equipment such as a Cisco Unified Border Element—SP  132  through the ERS  140  to the PSAP  150 . Alternative access to the UCV Hosted Customer Instance  130  may also be provided by a virtual private network  142  with an appropriate firewall  134  between the UCC Complex  120  and the virtual private network  142 . 
         [0027]    In operation and with reference to  FIG. 4 , there is shown an exemplary process flow in accordance with the present disclosure. At  200 , a user initiates an E-911 call from mobile device  112  using the E-911 application  40 . At  202 , there is an inquiry as to whether the cellular network is available. In this example, the cellular network may be the 3G/4G network  16 . If the cellular network is available, then the call is initiated using the native dialer network interface  42  at  204 . At  206 , a decision is made as to whether the cellular network remains available and stable or whether such cellular network signal may be weak or inconsistent. If so, the call continues at  208  using the cellular network. Another inquiry as to the quality of the call may be made one or more times, shown in  FIG. 4  at  212 . Provided the quality of the call remains satisfactory, the call is completed at  220 . 
         [0028]    Continuing with reference to  FIG. 4 , it is possible that at  202  the cellular network is not available. If so, then the call continues at  214  where the most accurate location determination is adopted. At  216 , the call is initiated via the VoIP client  44  and the call completes at  220  via the internet  14  using the most accurate location determination. If the call is initiated on the cellular network at  204  and the call quality subsequently diminishes or the call is dropped at either  206  or  212 , then the call will be retried at  210  and continue using the VoIP client  44  as described above. 
         [0029]    With respect to location determination, an emergency call using the VoIP client  44  over the internet  14  may use the most accurate location determination. This may be determined by a comparison of various methods for determining location. For example, the location using the 3G/4G network  16  may be determined using the 3G/4G network in accordance with a variety of methods, including but not limited to time delay of arrival, GPS, or assisted GPS. A service provider will know, based on its network design and other factors, the accuracy of such location information. If the method is handset-based, it is possible that the mobile device  112  will know its location prior to initiating an E-911 call. The mobile device  112  may, for example, use its GPS-based location based on the last time the location was updated. If the method is network-based, it is possible that the network may send the location of the mobile device  112  to the mobile device  112  while the network is available. 
         [0030]    Likewise, if the E-911 call is first initiated using the VoIP client  42  because the 3G/4G network  16  is unavailable, the location may be determined by a variety of methods, including but not limited to an analysis of the topology of the VoIP network and individual IP addresses associated with the devices on the VoIP network at the access point. Alternatively, the location may be individually entered by a user. Accuracy may include the street address, floor and even a cubicle number. A service provider will know, based on the network design and other factors, the accuracy of the method of determining location information. 
         [0031]    If the E-911 call is first initiated using the native cellular network dialer  42  prior to retrying the call using the VoIP client  44 , the E-911 application may request that the 3G/4G network share the location information of the mobile device  112  as soon as it is determined by the network and prior to the call being switched to the internet  16 . Alternatively, the mobile device  112  may have stored therein its location information based on the last update of its GPS or aGPS determination. Upon a retry of placing the call using the VoIP client  44  on the internet  16 , the E-911 application  40  may determine whether the location determined by the VoIP location methods and the network or handset based location methods are available and if so, which of those methods is likely to produce the most accurate location information. The most accurate location information is then used in completing the E-911 call over the internet  16 . 
         [0032]      FIG. 5  is a block diagram of network device  300  that may be connected to or comprise a component of cellular network  112  or wireless network  114 . Network device  300  may comprise hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The functionality to facilitate telecommunications via a telecommunications network may reside in one or combination of network devices  300 . Network device  300  depicted in  FIG. 5  may represent or perform functionality of an appropriate network device  300 , or combination of network devices  300 , such as, for example, a component or various components of a cellular broadcast system wireless network, a processor, a server, a gateway, a node, a mobile switching center (MSC), a short message service center (SMSC), an ALFS, a gateway mobile location center (GMLC), a radio access network (RAN), a serving mobile location center (SMLC), or the like, or any appropriate combination thereof. It is emphasized that the block diagram depicted in  FIG. 5  is exemplary and not intended to imply a limitation to a specific implementation or configuration. Thus, network device  300  may be implemented in a single device or multiple devices (e.g., single server or multiple servers, single gateway or multiple gateways, single controller or multiple controllers). Multiple network entities may be distributed or centrally located. Multiple network entities may communicate wirelessly, via hard wire, or any appropriate combination thereof. 
         [0033]    Network device  300  may comprise a processor  302  and a memory  304  coupled to processor  302 . Memory  304  may contain executable instructions that, when executed by processor  302 , cause processor  302  to effectuate operations associated with mapping wireless signal strength. As evident from the description herein, network device  300  is not to be construed as software per se. 
         [0034]    In addition to processor  302  and memory  304 , network device  300  may include an input/output system  306 . Processor  302 , memory  304 , and input/output system  306  may be coupled together (coupling not shown in  FIG. 5 ) to allow communications therebetween. Each portion of network device  300  may comprise circuitry for performing functions associated with each respective portion. Thus, each portion may comprise hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. Accordingly, each portion of network device  300  is not to be construed as software per se. Input/output system  306  may be capable of receiving or providing information from or to a communications device or other network entities configured for telecommunications. For example input/output system  306  may include a wireless communications (e.g., 3G/4G/GPS) card. Input/output system  306  may be capable of receiving or sending video information, audio information, control information, image information, data, or any combination thereof. Input/output system  306  may be capable of transferring information with network device  300 . In various configurations, input/output system  306  may receive or provide information via any appropriate means, such as, for example, optical means (e.g., infrared), electromagnetic means (e.g., RF, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, ZigBee®), acoustic means (e.g., speaker, microphone, ultrasonic receiver, ultrasonic transmitter), or a combination thereof. In an example configuration, input/output system  306  may comprise a Wi-Fi finder, a two-way GPS chipset or equivalent, or the like, or a combination thereof. 
         [0035]    Input/output system  306  of network device  300  also may contain a communication connection  308  that allows network device  300  to communicate with other devices, network entities, or the like. Communication connection  308  may comprise communication media. Communication media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, or wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared, or other wireless media. The term computer-readable media as used herein includes both storage media and communication media. Input/output system  306  also may include an input device  310  such as keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, or touch input device. Input/output system  306  may also include an output device  312 , such as a display, speakers, or a printer. 
         [0036]    Processor  302  may be capable of performing functions associated with telecommunications, such as functions for processing broadcast messages, as described herein. For example, processor  302  may be capable of, in conjunction with any other portion of network device  300 , determining a type of broadcast message and acting according to the broadcast message type or content, as described herein. 
         [0037]    Memory  304  of network device  300  may comprise a storage medium having a concrete, tangible, physical structure. As is known, a signal does not have a concrete, tangible, physical structure. Memory  304 , as well as any computer-readable storage medium described herein, is not to be construed as a signal. Memory  304 , as well as any computer-readable storage medium described herein, is not to be construed as a transient signal. Memory  304 , as well as any computer-readable storage medium described herein, is not to be construed as a propagating signal. Memory  304 , as well as any computer-readable storage medium described herein, is to be construed as an article of manufacture. 
         [0038]    Memory  304  may store any information utilized in conjunction with telecommunications. Depending upon the exact configuration or type of processor, memory  304  may include a volatile storage  314  (such as some types of RAM), a nonvolatile storage  316  (such as ROM, flash memory), or a combination thereof. Memory  304  may include additional storage (e.g., a removable storage  318  or a nonremovable storage  320 ) including, for example, tape, flash memory, smart cards, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, USB-compatible memory, or any other medium that can be used to store information and that can be accessed by network device  300 . Memory  304  may comprise executable instructions that, when executed by processor  302 , cause processor  302  to effectuate operations to map signal strengths in an area of interest. 
         [0039]      FIG. 6  illustrates a functional block diagram depicting one example of an LTE-EPS network architecture  400  related to the current disclosure. In particular, the network architecture  400  disclosed herein is referred to as a modified LTE-EPS architecture  400  to distinguish it from a traditional LTE-EPS architecture. 
         [0040]    An example modified LTE-EPS architecture  400  is based at least in part on standards developed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), with information available at www.3gpp.org. In one embodiment, the LTE-EPS network architecture  400  includes an access network  402 , a core network  404 , e.g., an EPC or Common BackBone (CBB) and one or more external networks  406 , sometimes referred to as PDN or peer entities. Different external networks  406  can be distinguished from each other by a respective network identifier, e.g., a label according to DNS naming conventions describing an access point to the PDN. Such labels can be referred to as Access Point Names (APN). External networks  406  can include one or more trusted and non-trusted external networks such as an internet protocol (IP) network  408 , an IP multimedia subsystem (IMS) network  410 , and other networks  412 , such as a service network, a corporate network, or the like. 
         [0041]    Access network  402  can include an LTE network architecture sometimes referred to as Evolved Universal mobile Telecommunication system Terrestrial Radio Access (E UTRA) and evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN). Broadly, access network  402  can include one or more communication devices, commonly referred to as UE  414 , and one or more wireless access nodes, or base stations  416   a ,  416   b . During network operations, at least one base station  416  communicates directly with UE  414 . Base station  416  can be an evolved Node B (e-NodeB), with which UE  414  communicates over the air and wirelessly. UEs  414  can include, without limitation, wireless devices, e.g., satellite communication systems, portable digital assistants (PDAs), laptop computers, tablet devices and other mobile devices (e.g., cellular telephones, smart appliances, and so on). UEs  414  can connect to eNBs  416  when UE  414  is within range according to a corresponding wireless communication technology. 
         [0042]    UE  414  generally runs one or more applications that engage in a transfer of packets between UE  414  and one or more external networks  406 . Such packet transfers can include one of downlink packet transfers from external network  406  to UE  414 , uplink packet transfers from UE  414  to external network  406  or combinations of uplink and downlink packet transfers. Applications can include, without limitation, web browsing, VoIP, streaming media and the like. Each application can pose different Quality of Service (QoS) requirements on a respective packet transfer. Different packet transfers can be served by different bearers within core network  404 , e.g., according to parameters, such as the QoS. 
         [0043]    Core network  404  uses a concept of bearers, e.g., EPS bearers, to route packets, e.g., IP traffic, between a particular gateway in core network  404  and UE  414 . A bearer refers generally to an IP packet flow with a defined QoS between the particular gateway and UE  414 . Access network  402 , e.g., E UTRAN, and core network  404  together set up and release bearers as required by the various applications. Bearers can be classified in at least two different categories: (i) minimum guaranteed bit rate bearers, e.g., for applications, such as VoIP; and (ii) non-guaranteed bit rate bearers that do not require guarantee bit rate, e.g., for applications, such as web browsing. 
         [0044]    In one embodiment, the core network  404  includes various network entities, such as MME  418 , SGW  420 , Home Subscriber Server (HSS)  422 , Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF)  424  and PGW  426 . In one embodiment, MME  418  comprises a control node performing a control signaling between various equipment and devices in access network  402  and core network  404 . The protocols running between UE  414  and core network  404  are generally known as Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocols. 
         [0045]    For illustration purposes only, the terms MME  418 , SGW  420 , HSS  422  and PGW  426 , and so on, can be server devices, but may be referred to in the subject disclosure without the word “server.” It is also understood that any form of such servers can operate in a device, system, component, or other form of centralized or distributed hardware and software. It is further noted that these terms and other terms such as bearer paths and/or interfaces are terms that can include features, methodologies, and/or fields that may be described in whole or in part by standards bodies such as the 3GPP. It is further noted that some or all embodiments of the subject disclosure may in whole or in part modify, supplement, or otherwise supersede final or proposed standards published and promulgated by 3GPP. 
         [0046]    According to traditional implementations of LTE-EPS architectures, SGW  420  routes and forwards all user data packets. SGW  420  also acts as a mobility anchor for user plane operation during handovers between base stations, e.g., during a handover from first eNB  416   a  to second eNB  416   b  as may be the result of UE  414  moving from one area of coverage, e.g., cell, to another. SGW  420  can also terminate a downlink data path, e.g., from external network  406  to UE  414  in an idle state, and trigger a paging operation when downlink data arrives for UE  414 . SGW  420  can also be configured to manage and store a context for UE  414 , e.g., including one or more of parameters of the IP bearer service and network internal routing information. In addition, SGW  420  can perform administrative functions, e.g., in a visited network, such as collecting information for charging (e.g., the volume of data sent to or received from the user), and/or replicate user traffic, e.g., to support a lawful interception. SGW  420  also serves as the mobility anchor for interworking with other 3GPP technologies such as universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS). 
         [0047]    At any given time, UE  414  is generally in one of three different states: detached, idle, or active. The detached state is typically a transitory state in which UE  414  is powered on but is engaged in a process of searching and registering with network  402 . In the active state, UE  414  is registered with access network  402  and has established a wireless connection, e.g., radio resource control (RRC) connection, with eNB  416 . Whether UE  414  is in an active state can depend on the state of a packet data session, and whether there is an active packet data session. In the idle state, UE  414  is generally in a power conservation state in which UE  414  typically does not communicate packets. When UE  414  is idle, SGW  420  can terminate a downlink data path, e.g., from one peer entity  406 , and triggers paging of UE  414  when data arrives for UE  414 . If UE  414  responds to the page, SGW  420  can forward the IP packet to eNB  416   a.    
         [0048]    HSS  422  can manage subscription-related information for a user of UE  414 . For example, tHSS  422  can store information such as authorization of the user, security requirements for the user, quality of service (QoS) requirements for the user, etc. HSS  422  can also hold information about external networks  406  to which the user can connect, e.g., in the form of an APN of external networks  406 . For example, MME  418  can communicate with HSS  422  to determine if UE  414  is authorized to establish a call, e.g., a voice over IP (VoIP) call before the call is established. 
         [0049]    PCRF  424  can perform QoS management functions and policy control. PCRF  424  is responsible for policy control decision-making, as well as for controlling the flow-based charging functionalities in a policy control enforcement function (PCEF), which resides in PGW  426 . PCRF  424  provides the QoS authorization, e.g., QoS class identifier and bit rates that decide how a certain data flow will be treated in the PCEF and ensures that this is in accordance with the user&#39;s subscription profile. 
         [0050]    PGW  426  can provide connectivity between the UE  414  and one or more of the external networks  406 . In illustrative network architecture  400 , PGW  426  can be responsible for IP address allocation for UE  414 , as well as one or more of QoS enforcement and flow-based charging, e.g., according to rules from the PCRF  424 . PGW  426  is also typically responsible for filtering downlink user IP packets into the different QoS-based bearers. In at least some embodiments, such filtering can be performed based on traffic flow templates. PGW  426  can also perform QoS enforcement, e.g., for guaranteed bit rate bearers. PGW  426  also serves as a mobility anchor for interworking with non-3GPP technologies such as CDMA2000. 
         [0051]    Within access network  402  and core network  404  there may be various bearer paths/interfaces, e.g., represented by solid lines  428  and  430 . Some of the bearer paths can be referred to by a specific label. For example, solid line  428  can be considered an S1-U bearer and solid line  432  can be considered an S5/S8 bearer according to LTE-EPS architecture standards. Without limitation, reference to various interfaces, such as S1, X2, S5, S8, S11 refer to EPS interfaces. In some instances, such interface designations are combined with a suffix, e.g., a “U” or a “C” to signify whether the interface relates to a “User plane” or a “Control plane.” In addition, the core network  404  can include various signaling bearer paths/interfaces, e.g., control plane paths/interfaces represented by dashed lines  430 ,  434 ,  436 , and  438 . Some of the signaling bearer paths may be referred to by a specific label. For example, dashed line  430  can be considered as an S1-MME signaling bearer, dashed line  434  can be considered as an S11 signaling bearer and dashed line  436  can be considered as an S6a signaling bearer, e.g., according to LTE-EPS architecture standards. The above bearer paths and signaling bearer paths are only illustrated as examples and it should be noted that additional bearer paths and signaling bearer paths may exist that are not illustrated. 
         [0052]    Also shown is a novel user plane path/interface, referred to as the S1-U+ interface  466 . In the illustrative example, the S1-U+ user plane interface extends between the eNB  416   a  and PGW  426 . Notably, S1-U+ path/interface does not include SGW  420 , a node that is otherwise instrumental in configuring and/or managing packet forwarding between eNB  416   a  and one or more external networks  406  by way of PGW  426 . As disclosed herein, the S1-U+ path/interface facilitates autonomous learning of peer transport layer addresses by one or more of the network nodes to facilitate a self-configuring of the packet forwarding path. In particular, such self-configuring can be accomplished during handovers in most scenarios so as to reduce any extra signaling load on the S/PGWs  420 ,  426  due to excessive handover events. 
         [0053]    In some embodiments, PGW  426  is coupled to storage device  440 , shown in phantom. Storage device  440  can be integral to one of the network nodes, such as PGW  426 , for example, in the form of internal memory and/or disk drive. It is understood that storage device  440  can include registers suitable for storing address values. Alternatively or in addition, storage device  440  can be separate from PGW  426 , for example, as an external hard drive, a flash drive, and/or network storage. 
         [0054]    Storage device  440  selectively stores one or more values relevant to the forwarding of packet data. For example, storage device  440  can store identities and/or addresses of network entities, such as any of network nodes  418 ,  420 ,  422 ,  424 , and  426 , eNBs  416  and/or UE  414 . In the illustrative example, storage device  440  includes a first storage location  442  and a second storage location  444 . First storage location  442  can be dedicated to storing a Currently Used Downlink address value  442 . Likewise, second storage location  444  can be dedicated to storing a Default Downlink Forwarding address value  444 . PGW  426  can read and/or write values into either of storage locations  442 ,  444 , for example, managing Currently Used Downlink Forwarding address value  442  and Default Downlink Forwarding address value  444  as disclosed herein. 
         [0055]    In some embodiments, the Default Downlink Forwarding address for each EPS bearer is the SGW S5-U address for each EPS Bearer. The Currently Used Downlink Forwarding address” for each EPS bearer in PGW  426  can be set every time when PGW  426  receives an uplink packet, e.g., a GTP-U uplink packet, with a new source address for a corresponding EPS bearer. When UE  414  is in an idle state, the “Current Used Downlink Forwarding address” field for each EPS bearer of UE  414  can be set to a “null” or other suitable value. 
         [0056]    In some embodiments, the Default Downlink Forwarding address is only updated when PGW  426  receives a new SGW S5-U address in a predetermined message or messages. For example, the Default Downlink Forwarding address is only updated when PGW  426  receives one of a Create Session Request, Modify Bearer Request and Create Bearer Response messages from SGW  420 . 
         [0057]    As values  442 ,  444  can be maintained and otherwise manipulated on a per bearer basis, it is understood that the storage locations can take the form of tables, spreadsheets, lists, and/or other data structures generally well understood and suitable for maintaining and/or otherwise manipulate forwarding addresses on a per bearer basis. 
         [0058]    It should be noted that access network  402  and core network  404  are illustrated in a simplified block diagram in  FIG. 6 . In other words, either or both of access network  402  and the core network  404  can include additional network elements that are not shown, such as various routers, switches and controllers. In addition, although  FIG. 6  illustrates only a single one of each of the various network elements, it should be noted that access network  402  and core network  404  can include any number of the various network elements. For example, core network  404  can include a pool (i.e., more than one) of MMEs  418 , SGWs  420  or PGWs  426 . 
         [0059]    In the illustrative example, data traversing a network path between UE  414 , eNB  416   a , SGW  420 , PGW  426  and external network  406  may be considered to constitute data transferred according to an end-to-end IP service. However, for the present disclosure, to properly perform establishment management in LTE-EPS network architecture  400 , the core network, data bearer portion of the end-to-end IP service is analyzed. 
         [0060]    An establishment may be defined herein as a connection set up request between any two elements within LTE-EPS network architecture  400 . The connection set up request may be for user data or for signaling. A failed establishment may be defined as a connection set up request that was unsuccessful. A successful establishment may be defined as a connection set up request that was successful. 
         [0061]    In one embodiment, a data bearer portion comprises a first portion (e.g., a data radio bearer  446 ) between UE  414  and eNB  416   a , a second portion (e.g., an S1 data bearer  428 ) between eNB  416   a  and SGW  420 , and a third portion (e.g., an S5/S8 bearer  432 ) between SGW  420  and PGW  426 . Various signaling bearer portions are also illustrated in  FIG. 6 . For example, a first signaling portion (e.g., a signaling radio bearer  448 ) between UE  414  and eNB  416   a , and a second signaling portion (e.g., S1 signaling bearer  430 ) between eNB  416   a  and MME  418 . 
         [0062]    In at least some embodiments, the data bearer can include tunneling, e.g., IP tunneling, by which data packets can be forwarded in an encapsulated manner, between tunnel endpoints. Tunnels, or tunnel connections can be identified in one or more nodes of network  400 , e.g., by one or more of tunnel endpoint identifiers, an IP address and a user datagram protocol port number. Within a particular tunnel connection, payloads, e.g., packet data, which may or may not include protocol related information, are forwarded between tunnel endpoints. 
         [0063]    An example of first tunnel solution  450  includes a first tunnel  452   a  between two tunnel endpoints  454   a  and  456   a , and a second tunnel  452   b  between two tunnel endpoints  454   b  and  456   b . In the illustrative example, first tunnel  452   a  is established between eNB  416   a  and SGW  420 . Accordingly, first tunnel  452   a  includes a first tunnel endpoint  454   a  corresponding to an S1-U address of eNB  416   a  (referred to herein as the eNB S1-U address), and second tunnel endpoint  456   a  corresponding to an S1-U address of SGW  420  (referred to herein as the SGW S1-U address). Likewise, second tunnel  452   b  includes first tunnel endpoint  454   b  corresponding to an S5-U address of SGW  420  (referred to herein as the SGW S5-U address), and second tunnel endpoint  456   b  corresponding to an S5-U address of PGW  426  (referred to herein as the PGW S5-U address). 
         [0064]    In at least some embodiments, first tunnel solution  450  is referred to as a two tunnel solution, e.g., according to the GPRS Tunneling Protocol User Plane (GTPv1-U based), as described in 3GPP specification TS 29.281, incorporated herein in its entirety. It is understood that one or more tunnels are permitted between each set of tunnel end points. For example, each subscriber can have one or more tunnels, e.g., one for each PDP context that they have active, as well as possibly having separate tunnels for specific connections with different quality of service requirements, and so on. 
         [0065]    An example of second tunnel solution  458  includes a single or direct tunnel  460  between tunnel endpoints  462  and  464 . In the illustrative example, direct tunnel  460  is established between eNB  416   a  and PGW  426 , without subjecting packet transfers to processing related to SGW  420 . Accordingly, direct tunnel  460  includes first tunnel endpoint  462  corresponding to the eNB S1-U address, and second tunnel endpoint  464  corresponding to the PGW S5-U address. Packet data received at either end can be encapsulated into a payload and directed to the corresponding address of the other end of the tunnel. Such direct tunneling avoids processing, e.g., by SGW  420  that would otherwise relay packets between the same two endpoints, e.g., according to a protocol, such as the GTP-U protocol. 
         [0066]    In some scenarios, direct tunneling solution  458  can forward user plane data packets between eNB  416   a  and PGW  426 , by way of SGW  420 . That is, SGW  420  can serve a relay function, by relaying packets between two tunnel endpoints  416   a ,  426 . In other scenarios, direct tunneling solution  458  can forward user data packets between eNB  416   a  and PGW  426 , by way of the S1 U+ interface, thereby bypassing SGW  420 . 
         [0067]    Generally, UE  414  can have one or more bearers at any one time. The number and types of bearers can depend on applications, default requirements, and so on. It is understood that the techniques disclosed herein, including the configuration, management and use of various tunnel solutions  450 ,  458 , can be applied to the bearers on an individual bases. That is, if user data packets of one bearer, say a bearer associated with a VoIP service of UE  414 , then the forwarding of all packets of that bearer are handled in a similar manner. Continuing with this example, the same UE  414  can have another bearer associated with it through the same eNB  416   a . This other bearer, for example, can be associated with a relatively low rate data session forwarding user data packets through core network  404  simultaneously with the first bearer. Likewise, the user data packets of the other bearer are also handled in a similar manner, without necessarily following a forwarding path or solution of the first bearer. Thus, one of the bearers may be forwarded through direct tunnel  458 ; whereas, another one of the bearers may be forwarded through a two-tunnel solution  450 . 
         [0068]      FIG. 7  depicts an exemplary diagrammatic representation of a machine in the form of a computer system  500  within which a set of instructions, when executed, may cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methods described above. One or more instances of the machine can operate, for example, as processor  302 , UE  414 , eNB  416 , MME  418 , SGW  420 , HSS  422 , PCRF  424 , PGW  426  and other devices of  FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 . In some embodiments, the machine may be connected (e.g., using a network  502 ) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate in the capacity of a server or a client user machine in a server-client user network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. 
         [0069]    The machine may comprise a server computer, a client user computer, a personal computer (PC), a tablet, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a control system, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. It will be understood that a communication device of the subject disclosure includes broadly any electronic device that provides voice, video or data communication. Further, while a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methods discussed herein. 
         [0070]    Computer system  500  may include a processor (or controller)  504  (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a graphics processing unit (GPU, or both), a main memory  506  and a static memory  508 , which communicate with each other via a bus  510 . The computer system  500  may further include a display unit  512  (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a flat panel, or a solid state display). Computer system  500  may include an input device  514  (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device  516  (e.g., a mouse), a disk drive unit  518 , a signal generation device  520  (e.g., a speaker or remote control) and a network interface device  522 . In distributed environments, the embodiments described in the subject disclosure can be adapted to utilize multiple display units  512  controlled by two or more computer systems  500 . In this configuration, presentations described by the subject disclosure may in part be shown in a first of display units  512 , while the remaining portion is presented in a second of display units  512 . 
         [0071]    The disk drive unit  518  may include a tangible computer-readable storage medium  524  on which is stored one or more sets of instructions (e.g., software  526 ) embodying any one or more of the methods or functions described herein, including those methods illustrated above. Instructions  526  may also reside, completely or at least partially, within main memory  506 , static memory  508 , or within processor  504  during execution thereof by the computer system  500 . Main memory  506  and processor  504  also may constitute tangible computer-readable storage media. 
         [0072]    As shown in  FIG. 8 , telecommunication system  600  may include wireless transmit/receive units (WTRUs)  602 , a RAN  604 , a core network  606 , a public switched telephone network (PSTN)  608 , the Internet  610 , or other networks  612 , though it will be appreciated that the disclosed examples contemplate any number of WTRUs, base stations, networks, or network elements. Each WTRU  602  may be any type of device configured to operate or communicate in a wireless environment. For example, a WTRU may comprise drone  102 , a mobile device, network device  300 , or the like, or any combination thereof. By way of example, WTRUs  602  may be configured to transmit or receive wireless signals and may include a UE, a mobile station, a mobile device, a fixed or mobile subscriber unit, a pager, a cellular telephone, a PDA, a smartphone, a laptop, a netbook, a personal computer, a wireless sensor, consumer electronics, or the like. WTRUs  602  may be configured to transmit or receive wireless signals over an air interface  614 . 
         [0073]    Telecommunication system  600  may also include one or more base stations  616 . Each of base stations  616  may be any type of device configured to wirelessly interface with at least one of the WTRUs  602  to facilitate access to one or more communication networks, such as core network  606 , PTSN  608 , Internet  610 , or other networks  612 . By way of example, base stations  616  may be a base transceiver station (BTS), a Node-B, an eNode B, a Home Node B, a Home eNode B, a site controller, an access point (AP), a wireless router, or the like. While base stations  616  are each depicted as a single element, it will be appreciated that base stations  616  may include any number of interconnected base stations or network elements. 
         [0074]    RAN  604  may include one or more base stations  616 , along with other network elements (not shown), such as a base station controller (BSC), a radio network controller (RNC), or relay nodes. One or more base stations  616  may be configured to transmit or receive wireless signals within a particular geographic region, which may be referred to as a cell (not shown). The cell may further be divided into cell sectors. For example, the cell associated with base station  616  may be divided into three sectors such that base station  616  may include three transceivers: one for each sector of the cell. In another example, base station  616  may employ multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology and, therefore, may utilize multiple transceivers for each sector of the cell. 
         [0075]    Base stations  616  may communicate with one or more of WTRUs  602  over air interface  614 , which may be any suitable wireless communication link (e.g., RF, microwave, infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), or visible light). Air interface  614  may be established using any suitable radio access technology (RAT). 
         [0076]    More specifically, as noted above, telecommunication system  600  may be a multiple access system and may employ one or more channel access schemes, such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, SC-FDMA, or the like. For example, base station  616  in RAN  604  and WTRUs  602  connected to RAN  604  may implement a radio technology such as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA) that may establish air interface  614  using wideband CDMA (WCDMA). WCDMA may include communication protocols, such as High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) or Evolved HSPA (HSPA+). HSPA may include High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) or High-Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA). 
         [0077]    As another example base station  616  and WTRUs  602  that are connected to RAN  604  may implement a radio technology such as Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA), which may establish air interface  614  using LTE or LTE-Advanced (LTE-A). 
         [0078]    Optionally base station  616  and WTRUs  602  connected to RAN  604  may implement radio technologies such as IEEE 602.16 (i.e., Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)), CDMA2000, CDMA2000 1×, CDMA2000 EV-DO, Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95), Interim Standard 856 (IS-856), GSM, Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), GSM EDGE (GERAN), or the like. 
         [0079]    Base station  616  may be a wireless router, Home Node B, Home eNode B, or access point, for example, and may utilize any suitable RAT for facilitating wireless connectivity in a localized area, such as a place of business, a home, a vehicle, a campus, or the like. For example, base station  616  and associated WTRUs  602  may implement a radio technology such as IEEE 602.11 to establish a wireless local area network (WLAN). As another example, base station  616  and associated WTRUs  602  may implement a radio technology such as IEEE 602.15 to establish a wireless personal area network (WPAN). In yet another example, base station  616  and associated WTRUs  602  may utilize a cellular-based RAT (e.g., WCDMA, CDMA2000, GSM, LTE, LTE-A, etc.) to establish a picocell or femtocell. As shown in  FIG. 8 , base station  616  may have a direct connection to Internet  610 . Thus, base station  616  may not be required to access Internet  610  via core network  606 . 
         [0080]    RAN  604  may be in communication with core network  606 , which may be any type of network configured to provide voice, data, applications, and/or voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services to one or more WTRUs  602 . For example, core network  606  may provide call control, billing services, mobile location-based services, pre-paid calling, Internet connectivity, video distribution or high-level security functions, such as user authentication. Although not shown in  FIG. 8 , it will be appreciated that RAN  604  or core network  606  may be in direct or indirect communication with other RANs that employ the same RAT as RAN  604  or a different RAT. For example, in addition to being connected to RAN  604 , which may be utilizing an E-UTRA radio technology, core network  606  may also be in communication with another RAN (not shown) employing a GSM radio technology. 
         [0081]    Core network  606  may also serve as a gateway for WTRUs  602  to access PSTN  608 , Internet  610 , or other networks  612 . PSTN  608  may include circuit-switched telephone networks that provide plain old telephone service (POTS). For LTE core networks, core network  606  may use IMS core  614  to provide access to PSTN  608 . Internet  610  may include a global system of interconnected computer networks or devices that use common communication protocols, such as the transmission control protocol (TCP), user datagram protocol (UDP), or IP in the TCP/IP internet protocol suite. Other networks  612  may include wired or wireless communications networks owned or operated by other service providers. For example, other networks  612  may include another core network connected to one or more RANs, which may employ the same RAT as RAN  604  or a different RAT. 
         [0082]    Some or all WTRUs  602  in telecommunication system  600  may include multi-mode capabilities. That is, WTRUs  602  may include multiple transceivers for communicating with different wireless networks over different wireless links. For example, one or more WTRUs  602  may be configured to communicate with base station  616 , which may employ a cellular-based radio technology, and with base station  616 , which may employ an IEEE 802 radio technology. 
         [0083]      FIG. 9  is an example system  400  including RAN  604  and core network  606 . As noted above, RAN  604  may employ an E-UTRA radio technology to communicate with WTRUs  602  over air interface  614 . RAN  604  may also be in communication with core network  606 . 
         [0084]    RAN  604  may include any number of eNode-Bs  702  while remaining consistent with the disclosed technology. One or more eNode-Bs  702  may include one or more transceivers for communicating with the WTRUs  602  over air interface  614 . Optionally, eNode-Bs  702  may implement MIMO technology. Thus, one of eNode-Bs  702 , for example, may use multiple antennas to transmit wireless signals to, or receive wireless signals from, one of WTRUs  602 . 
         [0085]    Each of eNode-Bs  702  may be associated with a particular cell (not shown) and may be configured to handle radio resource management decisions, handover decisions, scheduling of users in the uplink or downlink, or the like. As shown in  FIG. 9  eNode-Bs  702  may communicate with one another over an X2 interface. 
         [0086]    Core network  606  shown in  FIG. 9  may include a mobility management gateway or entity (MME)  704 , a serving gateway  706 , or a packet data network (PDN) gateway  708 . While each of the foregoing elements are depicted as part of core network  606 , it will be appreciated that any one of these elements may be owned or operated by an entity other than the core network operator. 
         [0087]    MME  704  may be connected to each of eNode-Bs  702  in RAN  604  via an S1 interface and may serve as a control node. For example, MME  704  may be responsible for authenticating users of WTRUs  602 , bearer activation or deactivation, selecting a particular serving gateway during an initial attach of WTRUs  602 , or the like. MME  704  may also provide a control plane function for switching between RAN  604  and other RANs (not shown) that employ other radio technologies, such as GSM or WCDMA. 
         [0088]    Serving gateway  706  may be connected to each of eNode-Bs  702  in RAN  604  via the S1 interface. Serving gateway  706  may generally route or forward user data packets to or from the WTRUs  602 . Serving gateway  706  may also perform other functions, such as anchoring user planes during inter-eNode B handovers, triggering paging when downlink data is available for WTRUs  602 , managing or storing contexts of WTRUs  602 , or the like. 
         [0089]    Serving gateway  706  may also be connected to PDN gateway  708 , which may provide WTRUs  602  with access to packet-switched networks, such as Internet  610 , to facilitate communications between WTRUs  602  and IP-enabled devices. 
         [0090]    Core network  606  may facilitate communications with other networks. For example, core network  606  may provide WTRUs  602  with access to circuit-switched networks, such as PSTN  608 , such as through IMS core  614 , to facilitate communications between WTRUs  602  and traditional land-line communications devices. In addition, core network  606  may provide the WTRUs  602  with access to other networks  612 , which may include other wired or wireless networks that are owned or operated by other service providers. 
         [0091]      FIG. 10  depicts an overall block diagram of an example packet-based mobile cellular network environment, such as a GPRS network as described herein. In the example packet-based mobile cellular network environment shown in  FIG. 10 , there are a plurality of base station subsystems (BSS)  800  (only one is shown), each of which comprises a base station controller (BSC)  802  serving a plurality of BTSs, such as BTSs  804 ,  806 ,  808 . BTSs  804 ,  806 ,  808  are the access points where users of packet-based mobile devices become connected to the wireless network. In example fashion, the packet traffic originating from mobile devices is transported via an over-the-air interface to BTS  808 , and from BTS  808  to BSC  802 . Base station subsystems, such as BSS  800 , are a part of internal frame relay network  810  that can include a service GPRS support nodes (SGSN), such as SGSN  812  or SGSN  814 . Each SGSN  812 ,  814  is connected to an internal packet network  816  through which SGSN  812 ,  814  can route data packets to or from a plurality of gateway GPRS support nodes (GGSN)  818 ,  820 ,  822 . As illustrated, SGSN  814  and GGSNs  818 ,  820 ,  822  are part of internal packet network  816 . GGSNs  818 ,  820 ,  822  mainly provide an interface to external IP networks such as PLMN  824 , corporate intranets/internets  826 , or Fixed-End System (FES) or the public Internet  828 . As illustrated, subscriber corporate network  826  may be connected to GGSN  820  via a firewall  830 . PLMN  824  may be connected to GGSN  820  via a boarder gateway router (BGR)  832 . A Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server  834  may be used for caller authentication when a user calls corporate network  826 . 
         [0092]    Generally, there may be a several cell sizes in a network, referred to as macro, micro, pico, femto or umbrella cells. The coverage area of each cell is different in different environments. Macro cells can be regarded as cells in which the base station antenna is installed in a mast or a building above average roof top level. Micro cells are cells whose antenna height is under average roof top level. Micro cells are typically used in urban areas. Pico cells are small cells having a diameter of a few dozen meters. Pico cells are used mainly indoors. Femto cells have the same size as pico cells, but a smaller transport capacity. Femto cells are used indoors, in residential or small business environments. On the other hand, umbrella cells are used to cover shadowed regions of smaller cells and fill in gaps in coverage between those cells. 
         [0093]      FIG. 11  illustrates an architecture of a typical GPRS network  900  as described herein. The architecture depicted in  FIG. 11  may be segmented into four groups: users  902 , RAN  904 , core network  906 , and interconnect network  908 . Users  902  comprise a plurality of end users, who each may use one or more devices  910 . Note that device  910  is referred to as a mobile subscriber (MS) in the description of network shown in  FIG. 11 . In an example, device  910  comprises a communications device (e.g., mobile device  102 , mobile positioning center  116 , network device  300 , any of detected devices  500 , second device  508 , access device  604 , access device  606 , access device  608 , access device  610  or the like, or any combination thereof). Radio access network  904  comprises a plurality of BSSs such as BSS  912 , which includes a BTS  914  and a BSC  916 . Core network  906  may include a host of various network elements. As illustrated in  FIG. 11 , core network  906  may comprise MSC  918 , service control point (SCP)  920 , gateway MSC (GMSC)  922 , SGSN  924 , home location register (HLR)  926 , authentication center (AuC)  928 , domain name system (DNS) server  930 , and GGSN  932 . Interconnect network  908  may also comprise a host of various networks or other network elements. As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , interconnect network  908  comprises a PSTN  934 , an FES/Internet  936 , a firewall  1038 , or a corporate network  940 . 
         [0094]    An MSC can be connected to a large number of BSCs. At MSC  918 , for instance, depending on the type of traffic, the traffic may be separated in that voice may be sent to PSTN  934  through GMSC  922 , or data may be sent to SGSN  924 , which then sends the data traffic to GGSN  932  for further forwarding. 
         [0095]    When MSC  918  receives call traffic, for example, from BSC  916 , it sends a query to a database hosted by SCP  920 , which processes the request and issues a response to MSC  918  so that it may continue call processing as appropriate. 
         [0096]    HLR  926  is a centralized database for users to register to the GPRS network. HLR  926  stores static information about the subscribers such as the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), subscribed services, or a key for authenticating the subscriber. HLR  926  also stores dynamic subscriber information such as the current location of the MS. Associated with HLR  926  is AuC  928 , which is a database that contains the algorithms for authenticating subscribers and includes the associated keys for encryption to safeguard the user input for authentication. 
         [0097]    In the following, depending on context, “mobile subscriber” or “MS” sometimes refers to the end user and sometimes to the actual portable device, such as a mobile device, used by an end user of the mobile cellular service. When a mobile subscriber turns on his or her mobile device, the mobile device goes through an attach process by which the mobile device attaches to an SGSN of the GPRS network. In  FIG. 11 , when MS  910  initiates the attach process by turning on the network capabilities of the mobile device, an attach request is sent by MS  910  to SGSN  924 . The SGSN  924  queries another SGSN, to which MS  910  was attached before, for the identity of MS  910 . Upon receiving the identity of MS  910  from the other SGSN, SGSN  924  requests more information from MS  910 . This information is used to authenticate MS  910  together with the information provided by HLR  926 . Once verified, SGSN  924  sends a location update to HLR  926  indicating the change of location to a new SGSN, in this case SGSN  924 . HLR  926  notifies the old SGSN, to which MS  910  was attached before, to cancel the location process for MS  910 . HLR  926  then notifies SGSN  924  that the location update has been performed. At this time, SGSN  924  sends an Attach Accept message to MS  910 , which in turn sends an Attach Complete message to SGSN  924 . 
         [0098]    Next, MS  910  establishes a user session with the destination network, corporate network  940 , by going through a Packet Data Protocol (PDP) activation process. Briefly, in the process, MS  910  requests access to the Access Point Name (APN), for example, UPS.com, and SGSN  924  receives the activation request from MS  910 . SGSN  924  then initiates a DNS query to learn which GGSN  932  has access to the UPS.com APN. The DNS query is sent to a DNS server within core network  906 , such as DNS server  930 , which is provisioned to map to one or more GGSNs in core network  906 . Based on the APN, the mapped GGSN  932  can access requested corporate network  940 . SGSN  924  then sends to GGSN  932  a Create PDP Context Request message that contains necessary information. GGSN  932  sends a Create PDP Context Response message to SGSN  924 , which then sends an Activate PDP Context Accept message to MS  910 . 
         [0099]    Once activated, data packets of the call made by MS  910  can then go through RAN  904 , core network  906 , and interconnect network  908 , in a particular FES/Internet  936  and firewall  1038 , to reach corporate network  940 . 
         [0100]      FIG. 12  illustrates a PLMN block diagram view of an example architecture that may be replaced by a telecommunications system. In  FIG. 12 , solid lines may represent user traffic signals, and dashed lines may represent support signaling. MS  1002  is the physical equipment used by the PLMN subscriber. For example, drone  102 , network device  300 , the like, or any combination thereof may serve as MS  1002 . MS  1002  may be one of, but not limited to, a cellular telephone, a cellular telephone in combination with another electronic device or any other wireless mobile communication device. 
         [0101]    MS  1002  may communicate wirelessly with BSS  1004 . BSS  1004  contains BSC  1006  and a BTS  1008 . BSS  1004  may include a single BSC  1006 /BTS  1008  pair (base station) or a system of BSC/BTS pairs that are part of a larger network. BSS  1004  is responsible for communicating with MS  1002  and may support one or more cells. BSS  1004  is responsible for handling cellular traffic and signaling between MS  1002  and a core network  1010 . Typically, BSS  1004  performs functions that include, but are not limited to, digital conversion of speech channels, allocation of channels to mobile devices, paging, or transmission/reception of cellular signals. 
         [0102]    Additionally, MS  1002  may communicate wirelessly with RNS  1012 . RNS  1012  contains a Radio Network Controller (RNC)  1014  and one or more Nodes B  1016 . RNS  1012  may support one or more cells. RNS  1012  may also include one or more RNC  1014 /Node B  1016  pairs or alternatively a single RNC  1014  may manage multiple Nodes B  1016 . RNS  1012  is responsible for communicating with MS  1002  in its geographically defined area. RNC  1014  is responsible for controlling Nodes B  1016  that are connected to it and is a control element in a UMTS radio access network. RNC  1014  performs functions such as, but not limited to, load control, packet scheduling, handover control, security functions, or controlling MS  1002  access to core network  1010 . 
         [0103]    An E-UTRA Network (E-UTRAN)  1018  is a RAN that provides wireless data communications for MS  1002  and UE  1024 . E-UTRAN  1018  provides higher data rates than traditional UMTS. It is part of the LTE upgrade for mobile networks, and later releases meet the requirements of the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) Advanced and are commonly known as a 4G networks. E-UTRAN  1018  may include of series of logical network components such as E-UTRAN Node B (eNB)  1020  and E-UTRAN Node B (eNB)  1022 . E-UTRAN  1018  may contain one or more eNBs. User equipment (UE)  1024  may be any mobile device capable of connecting to E-UTRAN  1018  including, but not limited to, a personal computer, laptop, mobile device, wireless router, or other device capable of wireless connectivity to E-UTRAN  1018 . The improved performance of the E-UTRAN  1018  relative to a typical UMTS network allows for increased bandwidth, spectral efficiency, and functionality including, but not limited to, voice, high-speed applications, large data transfer or IPTV, while still allowing for full mobility. 
         [0104]    Typically MS  1002  may communicate with any or all of BSS  1004 , RNS  1012 , or E-UTRAN  1018 . In a illustrative system, each of BSS  1004 , RNS  1012 , and E-UTRAN  1018  may provide MS  1002  with access to core network  1010 . Core network  1010  may include of a series of devices that route data and communications between end users. Core network  1010  may provide network service functions to users in the circuit switched (CS) domain or the packet switched (PS) domain. The CS domain refers to connections in which dedicated network resources are allocated at the time of connection establishment and then released when the connection is terminated. The PS domain refers to communications and data transfers that make use of autonomous groupings of bits called packets. Each packet may be routed, manipulated, processed or handled independently of all other packets in the PS domain and does not require dedicated network resources. 
         [0105]    The circuit-switched MGW function (CS-MGW)  1026  is part of core network  1010 , and interacts with VLR/MSC server  1028  and GMSC server  1030  in order to facilitate core network  1010  resource control in the CS domain. Functions of CS-MGW  1026  include, but are not limited to, media conversion, bearer control, payload processing or other mobile network processing such as handover or anchoring. CS-MGW  1026  may receive connections to MS  1002  through BSS  1004  or RNS  1012 . 
         [0106]    SGSN  1032  stores subscriber data regarding MS  1002  in order to facilitate network functionality. SGSN  1032  may store subscription information such as, but not limited to, the IMSI, temporary identities, or PDP addresses. SGSN  1032  may also store location information such as, but not limited to, GGSN address for each GGSN  1034  where an active PDP exists. GGSN  1034  may implement a location register function to store subscriber data it receives from SGSN  1032  such as subscription or location information. 
         [0107]    Serving gateway (S-GW)  1036  is an interface which provides connectivity between E-UTRAN  1018  and core network  1010 . Functions of S-GW  1036  include, but are not limited to, packet routing, packet forwarding, transport level packet processing, or user plane mobility anchoring for inter-network mobility. PCRF  1038  uses information gathered from PGW  1036 , as well as other sources, to make applicable policy and charging decisions related to data flows, network resources or other network administration functions. PDN gateway (PDN-GW)  1040  may provide user-to-services connectivity functionality including, but not limited to, GPRS/EPC network anchoring, bearer session anchoring and control, or IP address allocation for PS domain connections. 
         [0108]    HSS  1042  is a database for user information and stores subscription data regarding MS  1002  or UE  1024  for handling calls or data sessions. Networks may contain one HSS  1042  or more if additional resources are required. Example data stored by HSS  1042  include, but is not limited to, user identification, numbering or addressing information, security information, or location information. HSS  1042  may also provide call or session establishment procedures in both the PS and CS domains. 
         [0109]    VLR/MSC Server  1028  provides user location functionality. When MS  1002  enters a new network location, it begins a registration procedure. A MSC server for that location transfers the location information to the VLR for the area. A VLR and MSC server may be located in the same computing environment, as is shown by VLR/MSC server  1028 , or alternatively may be located in separate computing environments. A VLR may contain, but is not limited to, user information such as the IMSI, the Temporary Mobile Station Identity (TMSI), the Local Mobile Station Identity (LMSI), the last known location of the mobile station, or the SGSN where the mobile station was previously registered. The MSC server may contain information such as, but not limited to, procedures for MS  1002  registration or procedures for handover of MS  1002  to a different section of core network  1010 . GMSC server  1030  may serve as a connection to alternate GMSC servers for other MSs in larger networks. 
         [0110]    EIR  1044  is a logical element which may store the IMEI for MS  1002 . User equipment may be classified as either “white listed” or “black listed” depending on its status in the network. If MS  1002  is stolen and put to use by an unauthorized user, it may be registered as “black listed” in EIR  1044 , preventing its use on the network. A MME  1046  is a control node which may track MS  1002  or UE  1024  if the devices are idle. Additional functionality may include the ability of MME  1046  to contact idle MS  1002  or UE  1024  if retransmission of a previous session is required. 
         [0111]    As described herein, a telecommunications system wherein management and control utilizing a software designed network (SDN) and a simple IP are based, at least in part, on user equipment, may provide a wireless management and control framework that enables common wireless management and control, such as mobility management, radio resource management, QoS, load balancing, etc., across many wireless technologies, e.g. LTE, Wi-Fi, and future 5G access technologies; decoupling the mobility control from data planes to let them evolve and scale independently; reducing network state maintained in the network based on user equipment types to reduce network cost and allow massive scale; shortening cycle time and improving network upgradability; flexibility in creating end-to-end services based on types of user equipment and applications, thus improve customer experience; or improving user equipment power efficiency and battery life—especially for simple M2M devices—through enhanced wireless management. 
         [0112]    While examples of a telecommunications system in which emergency calls can be processed and managed have been described in connection with various computing devices/processors, the underlying concepts may be applied to any computing device, processor, or system capable of facilitating a telecommunications system. The various techniques described herein may be implemented in connection with hardware or software or, where appropriate, with a combination of both. Thus, the methods and devices may take the form of program code (i.e., instructions) embodied in concrete, tangible, storage media having a concrete, tangible, physical structure. Examples of tangible storage media include floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, DVDs, hard drives, or any other tangible machine-readable storage medium (computer-readable storage medium). Thus, a computer-readable storage medium is not a signal. A computer-readable storage medium is not a transient signal. Further, a computer-readable storage medium is not a propagating signal. A computer-readable storage medium as described herein is an article of manufacture. When the program code is loaded into and executed by a machine, such as a computer, the machine becomes an device for telecommunications. In the case of program code execution on programmable computers, the computing device will generally include a processor, a storage medium readable by the processor (including volatile or nonvolatile memory or storage elements), at least one input device, and at least one output device. The program(s) can be implemented in assembly or machine language, if desired. The language can be a compiled or interpreted language, and may be combined with hardware implementations. 
         [0113]    The methods and devices associated with a telecommunications system as described herein also may be practiced via communications embodied in the form of program code that is transmitted over some transmission medium, such as over electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or via any other form of transmission, wherein, when the program code is received and loaded into and executed by a machine, such as an EPROM, a gate array, a programmable logic device (PLD), a client computer, or the like, the machine becomes an device for implementing telecommunications as described herein. When implemented on a general-purpose processor, the program code combines with the processor to provide a unique device that operates to invoke the functionality of a telecommunications system. 
         [0114]    While a telecommunications system has been described in connection with the various examples of the various figures, it is to be understood that other similar implementations may be used or modifications and additions may be made to the described examples of a telecommunications system without deviating therefrom. For example, one skilled in the art will recognize that a telecommunications system as described in the instant application may apply to any environment, whether wired or wireless, and may be applied to any number of such devices connected via a communications network and interacting across the network. Therefore, a telecommunications system as described herein should not be limited to any single example, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.