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Abstract

An apparatus, system, and method are provided for interworking the public telephone network and the IP network. The public telephone network transports a TCAP message in a first format, and the IP network transports an encapsulated TCAP message in a second format. A first interface communicates with the public telephone network, and exchanges TCAP messages therewith. A second interface communicates with the IP network, and exchanges encapsulated TCAP messages therewith. A processor operably connected to at least one of said first interface and said second interface translates TCAP messages in the first format to/from the encapsulated TCAP message in the second format. The processor is further adapted for forwarding TCAP messages in both formats to the respective network. The first format can be an SS7 protocol format, while the second format can be an IP protocol format as used in the IP network. Various message structures and encapsulation techniques are provided. Network addressing and routing functions are included. An apparatus for exchanging encapsulated TCAP messages with the IP network is provided. A system for interworking a public telephone network and an IP network is provided. The system comprises a first network node, a second network node, and at least one interworking apparatus having a processor adapted for exchanging TCAP messages with the public telephone network and the IP network, as described. Related methods for interworking between the IP network and the public telephone network are provided.

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First Claim