GGSN (Gateway GPRS Support Node)

The Gateway GPRS Support Node is the 2G/3G packet-core element that connects the mobile network to external IP networks, allocates subscriber IP addresses, and applies charging. It is the predecessor of the 4G PGW. GGSNs terminate GTP tunnels from SGSNs and are reachable from roaming partners over GRX, making them frequent targets of GTP-based abuse such as session hijacking and IMSI disclosure when GTP firewalls are absent or misconfigured.

Categories: Core NetworkSignalingRoaming and Interconnect

GGSN in context

The mobile core carries subscriber sessions, mobility and policy. In 4G it is the EPC (MME, HSS, S/PGW); in 5G it is the Service-Based Architecture with AMF, SMF, UPF, AUSF, UDM and the NRF.

Signaling protocols carry the control-plane messages that set up calls, register subscribers and route SMS. SS7, Diameter, GTP-C and SIP are the four dominant families, and interconnect exposure of any of them is treated by GSMA as top-tier telecom risk.

To place GGSN in the wider telecom-security picture, review FS.07, FS.19, GTP, GTP Firewall, HLR and HSS — each entry cross-references back to this page so you can walk the topic in either direction.

Related terms

More from the TelcoSec Glossary

Browse the full TelcoSec Glossary, the Ultimate Guide to Mobile Network Security, or the P1 Arsenal of telecom-security tools.