In a move that will help address regulatory requirements for IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) based networks, SS8 Networks is now providing lawful intercept (LI) capabilities for these service delivery architectures. The company’s Xcipio architecture uses SIP to provide intercept capabilities in both circuit-switched and IMS networks.

Xcipio receives SIP signaling traffic from the call session control function (CSCF) node, and receives both SIP signaling and RTP media traffic from the session border controller (SBC). Xcipio interprets messages and correlates them with a specific warrant, then sends the SIP signaling and RTP voice streams to the collection function nodes at law enforcement agencies per the ANSI T1.678 protocol. The Xcipio architecture can receive traffic from several CSCF nodes in a network simultaneously, which reduces operational complexities for service providers.

The IMS standardized reference architecture enables service providers to offer a range of SIP-based services over packet networks to fixed or wireless customers. It also enables carriers to launch new services more quickly and cost effectively. SS8 Networks’ architecture will allow carriers employing the IMS architecture to meet their CALEA obligations, while also enhancing and migrating their service offerings. AT&T, BellSouth and Cingular have already announced plans to launch new voice, video and data services based on the IMS architecture.

"As service providers deploy IMS-based networks, and start implementing the converged wireline/wireless services for residential and commercial customers, they need solutions that enable them to comply with federal mandates for security, accountability and authentication," said Dr. Cemal Dikmen, general manager of SS8 Networks' Lawful Intercept business. "SS8 Networks continues to work with leading carriers and equipment vendors to deliver these LI solutions as part of next-generation IMS-based networks."
 
"Carriers and service providers are now insisting on compliance with the IMS specification for their entire infrastructure requirement, including a viable lawful intercept solution," said Joe McGarvey, principal analyst, Current Analysis. "SS8 Networks' SIP-based Xcipio platform enables carriers to continue to comply with CALEA requirements as they migrate to IMS-based infrastructures to deliver packet voice and other IP services."

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Laura Stotler writes about IP Communications and related topics for TMCnet. She has covered VoIP and related technologies for seven years, contributing to Internet Telephony magazine and TMCnet, and as a freelance writer. To see more articles, please visit: Laura Stotler’s columnist page.