GTPv1

On a GPRS network, Packet Data Protocol (PDP) context is a data structure used by both the Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) and the Gateway GPRS Support Node (GGSN). The PDP context contains the subscribers information including their access point, IP address, IMSI number, and their tunnel endpoint ID for each of the SGSN and GGSN.

The Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) is responsible for the delivery of data packets from and to the mobile stations within its geographical service area. Its tasks include packet routing and transfer, mobility management (attach/detach and location management), logical link management, and authentication and charging functions. The location register of the SGSN stores location information (e.g., current cell, current VLR) and user profiles (e.g., IMSI, address(es) used in the packet data network) of all GPRS users registered with this SGSN.