IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) Test Environment Simulator

Abstract: The IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) is the key element in the 3G mobile network architecture. IMS makes it possible to provide subscribers with ubiquitous cellular access to all the Internet provided services. This thesis report fully describes the project which aims on investigation and implementation of a test environment simulating key functional entities within the IMS core network. The achieved test environment simulator is intended to be used to facilitate development and test of IMS based systems without requiring access to a live IMS network. This report starts with an overview of IMS concepts and system requirements. Then it will give thorough description on system design and implementation. Several major communication protocols in IMS core network, such as SIP, RTP and Diameter, are implemented. The main IMS network elements, CSCF and HSS, are simulated. In addition, a handset simulator that is capable of depositing and retrieving voice mail is also implemented. Tests are conducted between completed IMS Test Environment Simulator and external IMS Voice Mail System by performing signaling and media communication in between. Finally, the report discusses potential future work based on the accomplished system prototype and summarizes achievements as well as challenges of the project.