Overview of the LTE EPC MME Function

D.

LTE (Long Term Evolution) is a standard for wireless broadband communication. EPC (Evolved Packet Core) is the core network architecture for LTE that consists of various network elements, including MME (Mobility Management Entity). The MME plays a critical role in the EPC network as it handles the control plane signaling for LTE devices.

Option D is the correct answer. The MME is a critical component of the control plane in the EPC network, and it is responsible for managing the states, authentication, paging, and mobility nodes. The MME communicates with the eNodeB (Evolved NodeB) and the S-GW (Serving Gateway) to manage the mobility of the UE (User Equipment) across the LTE network. It also manages the bearer activation and deactivation for the UE and handles the location update and tracking area update procedures.

Option A is incorrect because the SGW (Serving Gateway) acts as the interface between the LTE network and packet data networks such as the internet or IMS networks.

Option B is also incorrect because the MME does not provide user plane support between the 2.5G and 3G networks and the EPC. The S-GW and P-GW (Packet Data Network Gateway) are responsible for providing user plane support.

Option C is incorrect because the MME does not reside in the user plane. It resides in the control plane.

Option E is also incorrect because the MME is not responsible for interworking between the EPC and untrusted non-3GPP networks. The SGW and P-GW handle this responsibility.

In summary, the MME is a crucial element of the EPC network, and it is responsible for managing the control plane signaling for LTE devices, handling the authentication and mobility management of UE across the LTE network.