Telecom has come a long way—from the old-school SS7-based signaling systems to
today’s ultra-fast, software-driven 5G networks. But here’s the thing: legacy
telecom systems aren’t disappearing overnight. That’s where SIGTRAN in telecom
plays a crucial role.
Even with all the hype around 5G, VoIP, and cloud-native architectures, traditional SS7-based signaling still powers essential services like SMS, call routing, and global roaming. The challenge? These legacy systems were built for circuit-switched networks, while 5G and next-gen networks are fully IP-based. That’s where SIGTRAN steps in—to bridge the gap between old and new.
Let’s break it down!
Here’s why that matters:
But here’s the problem: SMS fraud is on the rise. Hackers exploit SS7 vulnerabilities to intercept messages and steal login credentials. Telecom operators use SIGTRAN to enhance security and monitor SS7 traffic more efficiently. This is a perfect example of why SIGTRAN is still relevant even in a 5G world.
But as 5G Standalone (SA), VoNR (Voice over New Radio), and next-gen signaling solutions evolve, SIGTRAN’s role will gradually decline. However, for the next decade or so, it remains a crucial part of telecom networks.
Learn more about Sigtran Gateway here: hSenid’s SIGTRAN Gateway Solution.
Even with all the hype around 5G, VoIP, and cloud-native architectures, traditional SS7-based signaling still powers essential services like SMS, call routing, and global roaming. The challenge? These legacy systems were built for circuit-switched networks, while 5G and next-gen networks are fully IP-based. That’s where SIGTRAN steps in—to bridge the gap between old and new.
Let’s break it down!
What is SIGTRAN and Why Should You Care?
SIGTRAN (Signaling Transport) is basically the modern-day upgrade of SS7 signaling, allowing it to run over IP networks instead of old-school TDM links. It keeps legacy systems relevant without forcing telecom operators to rip everything apart and start from scratch.Here’s why that matters:
- Keeps costs low:Instead of replacing entire infrastructures, SIGTRAN lets telecom providers gradually transition to IP networks.
- Supports hybrid networks:Many mobile operators still run 2G, 3G, and LTE alongside 5G. SIGTRAN ensures these systems talk to each other seamlessly.
- Critical for global roaming:Believe it or not, SS7 is still widely used for international roaming. Over 50% of global voice roaming traffic still relies on SS7, according to GSMA. SIGTRAN enables roaming between legacy and IP-based networks.
- Essential for services like SMS & fraud detection:Banks, enterprises, and government agencies still rely on SS7 for SMS notifications, authentication, and fraud detection. SIGTRAN helps keep these services running efficiently.
The Role of SIGTRAN in Telecom for 5G & Beyond
So, where does SIGTRAN in telecom fit into the future of 5G and next-gen networks? Surprisingly, it’s still a big deal. Here’s why:- Bridging Legacy and 5G Networks:Not every telecom operator is switching to 5G Standalone (SA) right away. Many are running a mix of 4G, 3G, and even 2G networks. SIGTRAN helps maintain interoperability between legacy SS7-based systems and modern IP-based networks.
- Keeping Global Roaming Alive:A lot of roaming agreements between mobile operators still use SS7 for authentication. Without SIGTRAN, international travelers wouldn’t be able to seamlessly connect between older and newer networks.
- Handling Critical Services Like SMS & Voice:Even though WhatsApp, iMessage, and RCS are popular, SMS is still the backbone for things like bank OTPs, airline alerts, and government notifications. SIGTRAN keeps SS7-based SMS services running smoothly over modern networks.
- Supporting IoT & M2M Communication:Many IoT (Internet of Things) devices still use SS7-based signaling, especially in industries like healthcare, transportation, and security. SIGTRAN ensures these devices can communicate over IP networks without disruption.
Real-World Example: Why Telecoms Still Rely on SIGTRAN
Did you know that 90% of A2P (Application-to-Person) SMS traffic still relies on SS7 signaling? Companies use SS7-based SMS to send bank alerts, login codes, and other important notifications.But here’s the problem: SMS fraud is on the rise. Hackers exploit SS7 vulnerabilities to intercept messages and steal login credentials. Telecom operators use SIGTRAN to enhance security and monitor SS7 traffic more efficiently. This is a perfect example of why SIGTRAN is still relevant even in a 5G world.
Does SIGTRAN Have a Future in an All-IP World?
The short answer: Yes—for now. Even though telecom is moving toward full IP-based architectures, legacy SS7 infrastructure won’t disappear overnight. In fact, telecom operators still rely on SS7 for critical services like roaming, SMS, and fraud prevention.But as 5G Standalone (SA), VoNR (Voice over New Radio), and next-gen signaling solutions evolve, SIGTRAN’s role will gradually decline. However, for the next decade or so, it remains a crucial part of telecom networks.
hSenid’s Sigtran Gateway: Future-Proof Your Network
If you’re in the telecom space and need a reliable way to handle SS7/IP interworking, global roaming, and secure signaling, hSenid’s Sigtran Gateway is the solution.- Seamless SIGTRAN integration: Ensures flawless communication between SS7 and IP-based networks.
- Global roaming support: Helps operators maintain roaming agreements between legacy and 5G networks.
- Advanced security: Protects against SS7 fraud, SMS interception, and signaling threats.
Learn more about Sigtran Gateway here: hSenid’s SIGTRAN Gateway Solution.
Final Thoughts
Despite the rapid shift to 5G and cloud-based telecom, SIGTRAN in telecom remains a key player in bridging legacy networks with modern IP-based infrastructures.- It keeps SS7 services like SMS, roaming, and fraud detection alive
- It ensures smooth interoperability between legacy and IP-based networks.
- It provides a cost-effective way for telecom operators to upgrade infrastructure.
