F5 Networks, which specialises in Application Delivery Networking, is buying Traffix Systems, which provides 4G Diameter signalling products for telecommunications service providers. The Diameter protocol has been accepted by the 3GPP and GSMA as the standard for network signalling in all 4G/LTE networks.

“Leading industry experts and service providers recognize the need for converged and unified IP solutions across carriers’ control, data, and application planes, which scale, secure, and optimize 3G, 4G/LTE, and IMS traffic,” says F5 CEO, John McAdam. “The result is a dramatic reduction of complexity and costs, making service provider networks more agile. With this move, F5 continues to execute on the company’s vision of delivering an adaptable architecture to enable its customers to create a smart, converged carrier IP infrastructure.”

The Diameter protocol plays a vital role in the management of 4G LTE and IMS networks and 3G charging and policy deployments. Diameter control via routing, load balancing and gateway solutions enable carriers to build and monetize networks by enabling them to offer advanced 4G services.