WO2002060190A2 - A short message point-to-point protocol gateway having a standard interface - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention comprises a system (200) for allowing an external short message entity (202) to submit messages to be delivered to a wireless device (236). The system (200) involves implementing an external interface to the messaging complex (216) of a wireless system. The interface enables all ESMEs (202) to communicate with the messaging complex (216) using a consistent standard interface. The system comprises a short messaging point-to-point router (222), a message complex (216), a home location register (226) and a mobile switching center (232). The external short message entity (202) connects to the short messaging point-to-point router (222) and requests delivery of a message to a wireless device (236), and the short message point-to-point router (222) the request to an appropriate messaging center (224).

Description

A SHORT MESSAGE POINT-TO-POINT PROTOCOL GATEWAY HAVING

A STANDARD INTERFACE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a gateway for delivering messages to wireless devices and, more specifically, to a short message point-to-point protocol gateway that interfaces with external message sources using a single protocol and routes messages to wireless devices.

2. Discussion of Related Art

Wireless devices such as mobile telephones and the like can transmit and receive short messages from a variety of different sources. One example of a source of a short message destined for a wireless device is a short message entity (SME). Examples of such short message entities include computers, interactive voice response systems (IVR), teleservice servers, and intelligent peripherals. Examples of short messages that may be sent include voice mail and email. A device operating as a message source external to a wireless network is commonly called an external short message entity (ESME). Typically, and in the context of this disclosure, an ESME is a device associated with a wired network that operates as a message source delivering a message to a mobile device. ESME messages destined for mobile devices are called herein mobile terminated (MT) messages since they originate from a wired ESME device and terminate with a mobile device. The following discussion relates primarily to MT messages. In addition to operating as the source for a short message, ESMEs may also receive short messages from other devices, such as mobile devices. In this regard, messages originating from mobile devices are referred to herein as mobile originating (MO) messages. A basic protocol for delivering messages from a wired network using a teleservice server to a wireless or mobile device is called the short message peer-to- peer (or point-to-point) protocol (SMPP). In addition to this basic protocol that may be used for a variety of ESMEs, the exact message flows from the ESME to the mobile device varies for each teleservice provider. A basic network architecture by which a message is delivered from a message source to a message-receiving device is shown in FIG. 1. As discussed below, numerous logical interfaces are presently necessary between an ESME and a wireless network in order to send and receive short messages. The different logical interfaces are necessary because numerous teleservices associated with ESMEs require different protocols for interfacing their ESME with routers in order to deliver the messages.

The architecture shown in FIG. 1 illustrates a system for delivering short messages from an ESME to a wireless network device. An external short messaging entity 108, 110, 112, 114 or 102 is the source of a short message. Examples of an ESME may include the telephone, cellular phone, computer connecting through the Internet 106 to a network, or the like. A plurality of messaging (or message) centers 124ι - 124_x (MCs) each receives messages from one of the ESMEs. Since there are many different protocols for communicting short messages to the messaging centers, each messaging center can only receive messages sent by ESMEs 102 delivering messages according to a known protocol for that messaging center. If the destination of the ESME 102 message is a wireless device, the MCs 124χ - 124_x transmit the short messages to a wireless network having network nodes and network switching centers 128, 130. The wireless network includes a home location register 126, a mobile switching center 132 and antennas in order to deliver the message using the over-the-air interface. The mobile receiving device, or wireless device 136, receives and displays the intended message to a user.

As the demand for messaging services increases, the number of messages delivered by message centers will also increase. The increased demand poses difficulties in scaling the message complex to handle numerous ESME requests. Furthermore, non-standard ESMEs or ESMEs that do not recognize a messaging protocol for a phone number or pager number may be the intended destinations or message sources for a message, thus increasing the complexity of the network requirements for delivering messages.

Having discussed MT messaging, we now turn to a discussion of messages that originate from a mobile device. These are referred to herein as mobile originated (MO) messages. Delivering MO messages, like MT messages, suffers from the probem discussed above wherein numerous interfaces are necessary for the variety of protocols used for the numerous teleservices. MO messages are transmitted from the mobile device through the wireless network to an MC 124} - 124_x. However, each mobile device transmits messages to its associated MC 124ι - 124_x, wherein routing tables or a translation process are needed to route the message in the direction of the destination ESME. Many different messaging interfaces are necessary for transmitting the message from the MC 124ι - 124_x to an ESME 102. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

What is needed in the art is a single logical interface to the messaging complex. The single logical interface to the messaging complex according to the present invention is called a short messaging point-to-point (SMPP) gateway (SG) and will provide one consistent interface for ESMEs to request delivery of service. ESMEs will also be isolated from any knowledge of the underlying messaging complex or wireless network implementation. With this implementation of a standard interface, non-standard ESME's may be allowed to connect to a messaging complex and transmit short messages. In order to address the needs in the art, the invention disclosed herein provides a single logical interface for all SMPP messages going to and from the Messaging Complex and eliminates the need for ESMEs to have any implementation knowledge of the Messaging Complex or wireless network. The invention provides routing from an ESME to the destination MC based on service being delivered and provides MC reconfiguration capability that does not require reconfiguration of ESMEs. The present invention also provides efficient scaling in the SG as traffic increases and achieves minimal delay in message delivery. The SG routing system minimizes or eliminates the modification of any parameters in SMPP messages and is configurable to support all SMPP message types.

In order to achieve the advantages of the present invention, the following system is proposed. To enable an ESME to submit messages for delivery to a wireless device. The first embodiment of the invention relates to mobile terminated (MT) messages. The system involves implementing an external interface to the messaging complex and enables all ESMEs to communicate with the messaging complex using a consistent standard interface.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a system for allowing an external short message entity to submit a message to be delivered to a message-receiving device in a wireless network comprises an SG communicating with a plurality of messaging centers and communicating with a plurality of ESMEs. The ESME connects or "binds" to the SG and requests delivery of a message to a wireless device. The SG routes the request to an appropriate messaging center. The SG is configured such that any external short messaging entity need only to have knowledge of a single protocol for requesting delivery of messages from the SG.

The ESME also connects to the SG by submitting a bind request signal including a system identification, password and system type. The SG responds to the bind request with a bind response signal including a system identifier and an error message if a bind is not successful. If a bind is not successful, the bind response signal includes an error signal indicating why the bind was not successful.

An important feature of the invention is that the SG determines the routing method based on a service type. The SG communicates with a plurality of messaging centers and determines the routing method to a destination message center according to the service type. The routing method may be one chosen from a group comprising: message center specific, load balancing, MDN range, equal allocation, and ESN. Other routing methods may also be added, such as inter-carrier routing and multi- network routing methods. Accordingly, such routing methods for delivery of messages between different carriers and across different network technologies may also be within the scope of the present invention. These routing methods apply to both MO and MT messages .

The method according to the present invention enables an ESME to submit messages to be delivered to a wireless device. The method comprises requesting delivery of a service to a wireless device from an SG, routing the request to a message center accordmg to a service type and a routing method, and delivering the request to a wireless network.

Another embodiment of the invention comprises a system for transmitting short messages from a mobile station to an ESME. These are the so-called MO messages. This embodiment of the invention comprises a system for allowing a message source to submit a message to be delivered to a message-receiving device. The system comprises a short messaging point-to-point gateway communicating with a plurality of messaging centers. The messaging centers communicate with a wireless network associated with the message-originating source. The message source transmits the message to one of the plurality of messaging centers, and the one of the plurality of messaging centers requests from the SG delivery of a message to the message-receiving device. The SG routes the request to the messaging receiving device. The SG determines a routing method based on a service type. The short messaging point-to-point gateway is configured to inquire whether anti-spamming is enabled according to a service type. An anti-spam check of MT or MO messages is an attribute of the service type defined at the SG. According to the embodiment of the invention related to MO messages, the message source connects to the one of the plurality of messaging centers by submitting a short message containing teleservice ID (TED), bearer data, source address and destination address. One of the plurality of messaging centers transmits a delivery short message signal to the SG. The SG determines a routing method based on a service type, cindluign ESME-specific, load balancing, equal allocation, destination IP address, and destination address.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The various embodiments of the invention may be understood with reference to the attached drawings, of which:

FIG. 1 shows a diagram illustrating the prior art architecture for delivering short messages through a messaging complex;

FIG. 2 illustrates the architecture of the system according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 shows the process of an ESME binding to the SG;

FIG. 4 shows the process of the SG binding to MCs;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a mobile-terminated message flow;

FIG. 6 shows exemplary routing of a message based on the service type; FIG. 7 illustrates another example of a mobile-terminated message delivery flow;

FIG. 8 shows flow control between an ESME and the SG;

FIG. 9 shows a message delivery with anti-spam check process for mobile- originated messages;

FIG. 10 shows a flow diagram for anti-spam logic for both mobile-originated and mobile-terminated messages;

FIG. 11 shows a mobile-terminated message processing logic;

FIG. 12 shows a flow control message sequence for a scenario where the MC is congested and alternate MC s may or may not be available;

FIG. 13 illustrates a message flow for a mobile-originated message;

FIG. 14 illustrates exemplary message processing for a mobile-originated message;

FIG. 15 shows an exemplary message cancel process; FIG. 16 shows a message replacement process;

FIG. 17 shows a check link status process;

FIG. 18 shows an alert notification process;

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of message flow for an activation process; and

FIG. 20 shows an example of the hardware associated with the SMPP gateway.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The first embodiment of the present invention comprises a system architecture for allowing external sources to connect using the short message point-to-point (SMPP) protocol and request delivery of short messages to wireless subscribers. In the context of this disclosure, an SMPP Router (SR) and SMPP Gateway (SG) may be considered the same apparatus. An overview of the system may be understood with reference to FIG. 2. In this disclosure, since a messaging complex and message center both may be shortened to "MC", typically a message center will be shortened herein to "MC" to reduce any confusion. Message complexes are referred to using the full name.

As shown in FIG. 2, the system architecture 200 comprises at least one External Source of a Message Entity (ESME) 202. Each ESME is connected via a firewall 204 to a message complex 216, described in more detail below. Messages may also come from the Internet 206 via an ESME email hub 208. Other sources of ESMEs include an ESME Over-The-Air Activation Facility - OTAF 210, an ESME paging system such as the Teknow system 212 using Dual Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF), Telocator Alphanumeric Paging Protocol (TAP), or TNPP protocols, or an ESME Voice Mail System (VMS) 214. The Teknow system 212 is a paging system that receives paging requests and forwards the request to the message center for delivery using the TNPP protocol. The Teknow interface may also use other protocols for delivery, such as SMPP or DTMF for tone encoding. The Comverse system 214 is a voice mail system that forwards voice mail waiting notifications to a gateway. Examples of the kinds of messages that may be sent from an ESME include weather reports, stock quotes and the like. The overall system accordmg to the present invention may also be called an "SMPP Receivership."

The SMPP Receivership 200 relies on implementing an external interface to the messaging complex 216. The messaging complex 216 comprises a plurality of messaging centers 224ι - 224_x. The subscripts "1" through "x" with respect to the messaging centers indicates that there may be only one messaging center in the message complex 216 or as many as "x" messaging centers in the message complex 216. The interface uses SMPP over TCP/TP and allows all ESMEs 202 to communicate with the messaging complex 216 using a consistent standard interface. To accomplish this task, a SMPP Gateway (SG) 222 is introduced into the messaging complex 216 architecture. The ESMEs 202 know only about the SG 222 and have no knowledge of the underlying implementation of the messaging complex 216 or wireless network. Requiring ESMEs 202 to know only about the SG 222 eliminates the need for the message complex 216 to maintain knowledge of the underlying implementation or characteristics of the ESMEs 202.

The SG 222 receives a message delivery request and routes the message, based on service type and routing methods, to the appropriate message center MC 224ι-224_x for delivery to a wireless subscriber 236 in the wireless network. The wireless network includes a home location register 226, mobile switching center 232, base stations 234, and other standard wireless nodes 228 and 230. These nodes 228, 230 may be, for example, a mobile switching center, home location register, a mobile station and the like. The SMPP Receiver 200 does not communicate directly with these nodes. One kind of message that may be transmitted through the SMPP Receiver 200 is a mobile terminated (MT) message. An MT message originates at an ESME 202 and is meant to be delivered to a wireless service subscriber or a wireless device 236. To achieve deliverance of a MT message, an ESME 202 connects to the SG 222 and requests delivery of a specific service to a specific wireless device or mobile station 236. The SG 222 routes the request to the appropriate MC 224ι-224_x for subsequent delivery in the wireless network. The SG 222 maintains service to MC 224i-224_x relationships and routing rules. Responses from the MC 224ι-224_x are sent to the SG 222 and subsequently to the ESME 202.

Another type of message that may be transmitted on the system 200 includes a mobile originated (MO) message or service. This type of message originates with a mobile device 236 to be delivered to an ESME 202. For MO services, the SG 222 routes the message received from the MC 224 224_x to an ESME 202. The SG 222 maintains service to ESME 202 relationships and routing rules. Responses from the ESME 202 are sent to the SG 222 and subsequently to the MC 224ι-224_x.

In addition to routing messages, spam control is desirable in the SMPP Receivor 200. The network element D2220 is an enhanced version of a Detection of Undesirable E-mail (DUE) processor 218 that the SG 222 queries for spam control. The D2 220 may be a separate server or a module running on the DUE 218 or on the SG 222. The D2 220 is an enhanced spam control server or processor separate from the undesirable message detection server (DUE) 218. If the D2 220 is implemented as a separate server, then the functionality described herein is implemented according to hardware elements common to servers, such as a processor, memory, interface controls, etc. These elements are known to those of skill in the art and do not need to be further discussed herein. According to the present invention, the standard DUE capability, for example from a DUE server 218, is enhanced to support queries from the SG 222. For MT messages, spam is defined as the number of MT delivery requests for a specific subscriber 236 exceeding a predefined number within a specific time interval. For example, spam for a particular service type may be defined as 20 delivery requests within three minutes. For MO messages, spam is defined as the number of MO delivery requests from a specific subcriber 236 exceeding a predefined number within a specific interval. The following list provides some of the major functions of the D2 220:

1. The D2220 receives a query from the SG 222 contaimng the service type, source address and destination address;

2. For MT service, the D2220 updates its message delivery request counters for the mobile destination number (MDN) contained in the destination address parameter. If the number of delivery requests have been exceeded for the time interval, then D2220 returns a status of 'deny'. Otherwise, the D2 220 returns a status of 'allow' ;

3. For MO service, the D2220 updates its message delivery request counters for the MDN contained in the source address parameter. If the number of delivery requests have been exceeded for the time interval, then the D2 220 returns a status of 'deny' . Otherwise, the D2 220 returns a status of

'allow' ; and

4. The D2220 maintains a list of denied MDNs. If the MDN is on the denied list, the D2220 returns a status of 'deny'.

According to the preferred mode of the first embodiment of the present invention, the following assumptions are made: Numerous ESMEs 202 will attach to the Messaging Complex 216; the ESMEs 202 may be wireless or non-wireless; the Messaging Complex 216 will consist of a number of physical MC platforms; the interface between ESMEs 202, MCs 224 224_x, and SG 222 will be SMPP over TCP/IP; for capacity and redundancy puiposes, a teleservice may be delivered by more than one MC 224ι-224_x; one MC 224j-224_x may deliver more than one teleservice; physical MC 224_!-224_x platforms may be supplied by more than one vendor; Teleservice applications may be supplied by more than one vendor; teleservices will be delivered in a number portability environment; services, except for activations, will be mobile directory number (MDN) based; ESMEs 202 will communicate with the SG 222 using dedicated network connections; traffic between the ESMEs 202 and SG 222 may or may not travel over the Internet depending on the security desired; and two over-the-air-activation processor (OTAP) nodes will be required for activations.

The SG 222 supports protocol data units (PDUs) defined by the SMPP v 3.4 specification and is backwards compatible to older versions. The SG 222 also supports vendor-specific error codes returned in a command_status parameter. These error codes include, for example: "Service Type Not Available" (0x00000410); "ESME Not Authorized for Service Type" (0x00000411); "Service Denied" (0x00000412); "Invalid Service Type" (0x00000413); "ESME Prohibited" (0x00000414); "Congestion" (0x00000400). These error code values are implemented using the block of error code values reserved for vendor-specific errors. The SG 222 requires the introduction of the new SMPP error codes described in the following Table 1 :

Now we turn to a discussion of the binding process between ESMEs 202 and the SG 222. In order for an ESME 202 to request and deliver a message according to the present invention, the ESME 202 must "bind" to the SG 222. This process is illustrated in FIG. 3. The "bind" operation is comparable to logging into a computer system. The external system requests a session with the gateway by presenting an ID and a password. If the ID and password are successfully authenticated, a session is established between the gateway and the ESME 202. An ESME 202 binds to the SG 222 as a transmitter for mobile terminated (MT) services. A bind request (Bind_Transmitter) includes the systemjd, a unique identifier for the ESME 202, password, and system_type. Systemjype identifies the type of service that the ESME 202 will deliver. The SG 222 verifies that the ESME 202 is authorized using system_id, password, and systemjype. The MCs 224ι-224_x repond with a Bind_Transmitter_Resp signal including system Jd and MC signals. The system_id identifies the SG 222. If a bind is not successful, the SG 222 returns the appropriate command_status including Bind Failed, Invalid Password, and Invalid System ID.

An ESME 202 binds to the SG 222 as a receiver for mobile originating (MO) services using the Bind_Receiver PDU. All other steps are the same as described in the Bind_Transmitter signal above. In general, the response from a bind operation indicates whether the bind attempt was successful or the response is an error code describing the error that prevented the connection.

An ESME 202 binds to the SG 222 and all defined MCs 224 224_x configured for MT and MO services as a transceiver/receiver for interactive services using the Bind Transceiver PDU. All other steps are the same as described in the Bind_Transmitter signal. At initialization, the SG 222 binds to all of the MCs 224 224_x that it is configured to know about.

The SG 222 enables the introduction of a different binding concept from previous concepts. For MT messages, an ESME 202 binds to the SG 222. The SG 222 binds and maintains binds to many MCs 224]-224_x. The mapping of many binds from the SG 222 to MC 224_x-224_x for MT services and the mapping of many binds from the SG 222 to many ESMEs 202 for MO services is a critical functionality for the SG 222.

For MT services, the SG 222 mantains binds to many MCs 224 224_x while maintaining a single bind to the ESME 202. The ESME 202 does not need to know how or to which MC 224i-224_x to bind. The same concept applies in reverse to MO Messages. The SG 222 maintains binds to many ESMEs 202 while maintaining a single bind to the MC 224_t-224_x. The MC 224ι-224_x does not need to know how or to which ESME 202 to bind. The many binds from the SG 222 to the MCs 224_r224_x are mapped for MT services and the many binds from the SG 222 to many ESMEs 202 are mapped for MO services. The communication between the ESME - SG - and MC is accomplished using TCP/IP for transport. The TCP/IP protocol transports the SMPP protocol messages.

The process of the SG 222 binding to the MCs 224 224_x is illustrated in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 4, the SG 222 maintains the availability status of each of the MCs 224i-224_x and attempts to rebind in case a bind is lost or fails. As discussed above, there are different binding methods for respective services available: MT service, MO service and MT and MO service.

The SG 222 populates the BindJTransmitter, BindJReceiver, and Bind_Transceiver PDUs according to the bind parameters configured for the MC 224ι-224_x. The SG 222 updates its internal routing tables to indicate the status of each MC 224ι-224_x. The SG 222 also maintains an association between services and available MCs 224j-224_x. In this scenario, the SG 222 maintains a static reference between services and each MC 224ι-224_x. In the preferred mode of the first embodiment of the invention, the SG 222 queries the MCs 224ι-224_x to determine the services each MC 224 224_x delivers and their status. The SG 222 then preferably binds to the MC 224ι-224_x. In another aspect of the invention, the SG 222 may bind to a service type, rather than to an MC 224ι-224_x.

The binding process includes protocols for handling failed binding scenarios. For example, if a bind attempt between the SG 222 and an MC 224_r224_x fails, the SG 222 may issue an alarm. The bind fail alarm, if provided, contains, at a minimum, MC systemjd, time, and bind failure reason. Additional information may be provided.

If an established bind between the SG 222 and an MC 224 224_x fails, the SG 222 issues an alarm. The bind lost alarm shall contain, at a minimum, MC systemjd, time, and bind loss reason if known. Additional information may also be provided. If a bind attempt between the SG 222 and MC 224 224_x fails, the SG 222 periodically attempts to establish the bind. If a bind between the SG 222 and a MC 224ι-224_x is lost, the SG 222 periodically attempts to reestablish the bind. The SG 222 maintains a configurable bind retry interval. The bind retry interval applies to failed and lost binds. In the preferred embodiment, the bind retry interval has a resolution of 1 minute and a default value of 5 minutes. However, other values may be used as retry intervals or default values.

All bind attempts to MCs 224ι-224_x, successful or unsuccessful, are logged in the event log. The minimum information provided includes time, MC systemjd, system type, and bind status. If bind status returns as "unsuccessful," the failure reason is provided, along with other information if desired. Bind parameters for each MC 224ι-224_x are configured at the SG 222. A further discussion of the details of bind parameter provisioning is provided below.

It is necessary for the SG 222 to support ESMEs 202 and MCs 224_!-224_x operating at different SMPP interface version levels. For mobile terminated (MT) service, the level of service available in the wireless network is determined by the interface version available at the MC 224 224_x. An ESME 202 should not be able to request services using an interface version that is not yet supported by the MC 224ι- 224_x. If an ESME 202 binds to the SG 222 and requests message delivery at the SMPP interface version that is greater than the version supported at the destination MC 224₁-224_x, the message is rejected at the SG 222. Basic backward compatibility rules apply. The SG 222 routes messages to the selected MC 224ι-224_x only when the SMPP interface version of the selected MC 224ι-224χ is equal to or greater than the SMPP interface version of the originating ESME 202. The SG 222 rejects messages routed to the selected MC 224ι-224_x when the SMPP interface version of the selected MC 224_t-224_x is less than the SMPP interface version of the originating ESME 202. The SG 222 then returns a System Error (0x00000008) error code to the originating ESME 202.

For mobile originated message service, if an MC 22Aι-22A requests message delivery at an SMPP interface version that is greater than the version supported at the destination ESME 202, the message is rejected at the SG 222. Basic backward compatibility rules apply. The SG 222 routes messages to the selected ESME 202 only when the SMPP interface version of the selected ESME 202 is equal to or greater than the SMPP interface version of the originating MC 224 224_x. The SG 222 rejects messages routed to the selected ESME 202 when the SMPP interface version of the selected ESME 202 is less than the SMPP interface version of the originating MC 224 224_x. The SG 222 in this case returns a System Error (0x00000008) error code to the originating MC 224ι-224_x.

The message flow for a mobile terminated (MT) message is illustrated in FIG. 5. In the MT mode, the ESME 202 sends a Submit_SM signal to SG 222. The servicejype parameter identifies the service to be delivered. The SG 222 invokes a routing method based on servicejype and routing method dependent parameters to select destination MC 224 224_x. The MT routing methods apply for ESME 202 to MC 224i-224_x communication and include such methods as MC specific, load balancing, MDN range, equal allocation and ESN. These will be discussed in more detail below. Using the appropriate routing method, a primary destination MC 224ι- 224_x is first selected. If the primary destination MC 224ι-224_x is not available, a secondary MC 224 224_x is selected.

FIG. 6 illustrates the routing 450 based on servicejype. Each service type 452 has an associated routing method 454. The SG 222 determines a primary 456 or secondary 458 destination using the routing method, routing data 460, and parameters in the SMPP message. Service types are defined independently of the teleservice used to deliver the service. This approach allows service types to be created that are not identified by the underlying teleservice.

An ESME 202 requests delivery of a message for a specific service type. The SG 222 routes the message to the MC 224 224_x that delivers that service type. The MC 224ι-224_x uses a specific teleservice type to deliver the message. With this approach new service types, from an ESME perspective, can be introduced without the introduction of new teleservices. Additional service types are configurable in the SG 222. Service types do not have be teleservice-specific as long as there is end-to- end continuity of service definition. For example, different priority CMT messages could be assigned different service types in the SG 222 and routed to MCs 224ι-224_x dedicated to high or low priority messages.

For example, the following service types could be defined in Table 2:

The routing methods described herein require that the message Jd parameter uniquely identify the message and the MC 224 224_x that delivered the message. The message Jd parameter is intended to uniquely identify each message sent between the ESME 202 and an MC 224 224_x. When a number of MCs 224 224_x are used to deliver messages, it cannot be guaranteed that the message Jd returned by a MC 224ι- 224_x will be unique across all MCs 224ι-224χ. To eliminate this ambiguity, each message passing through the gateway requires a unique message Jd. The message Jd must uniquely identify the message and the MC 224ι-224_x that delivered it. A unique message Jd parameter that identifies both a message and message center is required to support Query_SM, Cancel_SM, and Replace_SM operations.

To support these operations it is necessary for the SG 222 to return a unique message Jd to the ESME 202 with each message submitted. The ESME 202 then can use the message Jd in these operations to uniquely identify the subject message. Several options are possible for providing a unique message Jd. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, option 1 below is chosen. These are:

Configure each MC 224ι-224_x so that it uses a specific range for the message Jd. This will uniquely identify each message and the message center that delivered it. The message Jd is recycled within its defined range on each MC 224ι-224_x. Up to 65 octets are allowed for message Jd. 2. Have the SG 222 assign a unique message Jd to Submit SM_Resp, Submit JvlultiJResp, Data_SM_Resp, and Deliver_SM_Resp. This could be accomplished by prepending a message center key to the message Jd returned to from the MC 224ι-224_x. For example, a new message Jd = MC_key + MC message Jd.

The routing methods introduced above establish the rules used to route messages to a destination. Different routing rules are used for MT and MO messages. MT routing methods apply to ESME 202 to MC 224 224_x routing. A MT service type can have one of the following routing methods shown in Table 3:

The following Table 4 describes the SMPP PDUs and parameters used for each MT routing method.

We first discuss the MC Specific routing method. The SG 222 routes all Submit 5M, Data_SM, or Submit vIulti PDUs with the same servicejype to the same MC 224ι-224_x. The MC Specific routing method allows a primary and alternate destination MC to be defined, although definition of an alternate MC 224j-224_x is not mandatory. The MC Specific routing method routes the MT message to the primary destination MC 224 224_x if the primary MC 224 224_x is available. If the primary destination MC 224ι-224_x is not available, the MC Specific routing method routes the MT message to the alternate destination MC 224 224_x.

If both primary and alternate MCs 224ι-224_x are unavailable, the MC specific routing method responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp, Data_SM_Resp, or Sumibt_Multi-Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an MC 224 224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

The Load Balancing routing method routes messages to a group of MCs 224 224_x based on load capabilities of each MC 224ι-224_x in the group. Each MC 224 224_x in the group is allocated messages based on its capacity. For example, Table 5 illustrates the proportioning of messages:

The SG 222 provides a Load Balancing routing method for MT messages. The Load Balancing routing method routes Submit _SM, Data SM, or SubmitJvIulti PDUs with the same servicejype to one of a group of MCs 224p224_x based on the message allocation established for each MC 224ι-224_x. The Load Balancing routing method allows a group of MCs 224ι-224_x delivering the same servicejype to be defined. The group contains two or more MCs 224ι-224_x. This routing method also allows the proportion of messages allocated to each MC 224ι-224_x in the group to be defined. The proportion is defined as a percentage of messages allocated to each MC

The Load Balancing routing method routes messages to each of the MCs 224 224_x in the load balancing group based on proportion of messages allocated to each MC 224ι-224_x. Using the example above, if 100 messages are routed for a service type in some time interval, MC-1 will receive 25 messages, MC-2 will receive 50 messages and MC-3 will receive 25 messages. If an MC 224ι-224_x in a Load Balancing routing method group becomes unavailable, the messages destined for the unavailable MC 224ι-224_x are routed to the remaining MCs 224ι-224_x. The messages are allocated to the remaining available MCs 224j-224_x based on the remaining MCs 224ι-224_x allocation of total capacity. The allocation added to each remaining MC 224ι-224_x equals the allocation lost / number remaining MCs 224i-224_x. Using the example above, suppose MC-3 becomes unavailable. Allocation added to each remaining MC = allocation lost / number of remaining MCs. Allocation added to each of the remaining MCs = 25% / 2 (=12.5%). MC-1 is now allocated 37.5% of the total (25% + 12.5% from MC-3). MC-2 is allocated 62.5% of the total (50% + 12.5% from MC-3).

If both primary and alternate MCs are unavailable, the Load Balancing routing method responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not

Available in the SubmitJ5M_Resp, Data SMJResp, or Submit JVIulti-Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an MC 224 224_x because all MCs 224_!-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

The MDN range routing method routes messages to a specific MC 224i-224_x based on the MDN range of the destination address. The objective of this routing method is to provide deterministic routing for a group of MCs 224 224_x delivering a service that requires guaranteed message delivery order or Replace If Present (RIP). For RIP to be effective, messages for the same destination must be routed to the same MC 224ι-224_x for delivery. The MDN range routing method has two possible configurations:

First, a complete range of MDNs is defined for the MDN routing group (from 000-000 through 999-999). This is illustrated in Table 6:

Second, an incomplete range of MDNs plus a Default MC is defined for the MDN routing group. Any destination_address not within the defined MDN ranges is routed to the Default MC. In this example any destination_address that is not in the 001-000 to 605-999 range is routed to the Default MC. This is shown by way of example in Table 7:

The MDN Range routing method routes all Submit _SM, Data_SM, or SubmitJvIulti PDUs with the same service ype to one of a group of MCs 224i-224_x based on the value of the MDN in the destination_addr parameter. The MDN Range routing method allows a group of MCs 224ι-224_x delivering the same servicejype to be defined. The group contains two or more MCs 224 224_x.

The MDN range used by the MDN Routing method is defined by a low and a high MDN value with a resolution of NPA-NXX. The MDN Range routing method allows MDN ranges to be assigned to each MC 224ι-224χ in the group. It is possible to assign more than one MDN range to each MC 224i-224_x. The MDN Range routing method does not allow overlapping MDN ranges to be defined for a specific servicejype.

The MDN Range routing method allows a Default MC to be defined. If the MDN received in the destination_address parameter is not within the any of the MDN ranges defined for the group, the message is routed to the Default MC.

The SG 222 issues an alarm when a message is routed to the default MC 224ι- 224_x. The minimum information provided includes the time, service type, source ESME, destination_address of message routed to the default MC, and the default MC. Other information may also be provided. The SG 222 logs all occurances of messages routed to the default MC 224ι-224_x. The minimum information provided includes time, service type, source ESME, destination_address of message routed to the default MC, and the default MC. Other information may be provided.

The MDN Range routing method for a specific servicejype does not become effective unless MDN range definition is complete and provides for routing of any MDN (from 000-000 through 999-999) or a Default MC is defined. The MDN Range routing method allows definition of an alternate MC 224ι-224_x for each MDN range.

If the primary MC 224 224_x for the MDN range is not available and an alternate MC 224ι-224_x is defined and available, the MDN Range routing method routes messages to the alternate MC 224₁-224_x. If the primary MC 224 224_x for the MDN range is not available and an alternate MC 224χ-224_x is not defined or not available, the MDN Range routing method responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp, Data SMJResp, or Submit_Multi-Resp PDUs, if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an MC 224ι-224_x because all MCs 224 224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

The equal allocation routing method routes messages to a group of MCs 224ι- 224_x based on sequentially sending messages to each MC 224χ-224_x in the group. Each MC 224ι-224_x in the group is sent an equal number of messages. The SG 222 provides an Equal Allocation routing method for MT messages. The Equal Allocation routing method routes all Submit SM, DatajSM, or SubmitJvIulti PDUs with the same servicejype to one of a group of MCs 224ι-224_x based on sequentially sending messages to each MC 224ι-224_x in the group. The Equal Allocation routing method allows a group of MCs 224ι-224_x delivering the same servicejype to be defined. The group shall contain two or more MCs 224₁-224_x.

The equal allocation routing method sends an equal number of messages to each MC 224ι-224_x in the group. One message is sent to each of the destination MCs 224ι-224_x before any destination MC 224ι-224_x is sent another message. If a MC 224ι-224_x in an Equal Allocation routing method group becomes unavailable, messages destined for the unavailable MC 224j-224_x are routed to the remaining MCs 224ι-224_x within the group. If all MCs 224ι-224_x in an equal allocation routing group become unavailable, the routing method responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SMJResp, Data SMJResp, or Submit Jvlulti-Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an MC 224 224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

We now turn to an overview of the activation process for a mobile station 236. Activation requests are sent to an over-the-air-activation processor (OTAP) MC 224ι- 224_x delivering the OATS teleservice. For activation, the destination_address parameter in the Submit_SM contains the mobile identification number (MTN) to be assigned to the MS 236. The short_message parameter contains the ESN along with other activation data. Each MS 236 has a unique activation MIN that follows the standard NPA-NXX-XXX format: NPA is always 000; NXX-XXX is derived from the ESN. The MS 236 registers at the OTAP MC 224 224_x using the activation MIN

(not the MIN to be assigned to the MS). The OTAP MC 224 224_x associates the activation MIN with the ESN received in Submit JSM and subsequently sends the activation data to the MS 236. The following example describes how the activation

MIN is derived from the ESN. 1. The ESN is 4 octets in length. The first octet is the manufacture code and the remaining three octets are the ESN. For example, a decimal ESN = 12205092081 (D7 hex 7A EC FI hex).

2. The manufacture code (D7 hex) is dropped leaving 7A EC FI hex.

3. This value is converted to decimal: 7A EC FI hex = 8056049 decimal.

4. The least significant seven digits are used as the NXX-XXX portion of the activation MIN. The least significant seven digits of the ESN are appended to the activation NPA, 000, resulting in an activation MIN of

0008056049.

The ESN routing method is used to route activation requests to two or more

MCs 224ι-224_x delivering the OATS teleservice. If two OATS MCs 224ι-224_x are used, then routing is based on the odd - even value of the decimal ESN. One MC 224ι-224_x receives activation requests with even ESNs, one MC 224 224_x receives activation requests with odd ESNs. If more than two OATS MCs 224ι-224_x are used, then routing is based on an ESN range assigned to each MC 224i-224_x in the group. The ESN range is defined by the last two digits of the decimal ESN. This allows up to 100 MCs 224 224_x in a group. For example, Table 8 illustrates the ESN ranges:

The SG 222 provides an ESN routing method. The ESN routing method shall route Submit_SM PDUs with the same servicejype to one of a group of MCs 224i- 224_x based on the value of the ESN in the short_message parameter. The ESN routing method shall allow a group of MCs 224ι-224_x delivering the same servicejype to be defined. The group shall contain two or more MCs 224ι~224_x. The ESN routing method supports two routing options:

1. When an ESN routing group contains two OATS MCs 224₁-224_x,routing shall be based on the odd or even value of the decimal ESN.

2. When an ESN routing group contains more than two OATS MCs 224ι- 224_x, routing shall be based on the value of the last two digits of the decimal ESN.

When the ESN routing group contains two MCs 224 224_x, one MC 224 224_x is defined to receive activation requests containing even ESNs in the short_message parameter and one MC 224r224_x is defined to receive activation requests containing - odd ESNs in the short_message parameter. The requirements in the following paragraph apply only to routing to more than two MCs 224ι-224_x.

When the ESN routing group contains more than two MCs 224ι-224_x, the ESN routing method requires an ESN range be defined for each destination MC 224ι- 224_x in the group. The ESN range used by the ESN routing method is defined by a low and high value for the last two digits of the ESN. The ESN routing method does not allow overlapping ESN ranges to be defined for a specific servicejype. The ESN routing method for a specific servicejype shall not become effective unless the ESN range definition is complete and provides for routing of any ESN (last two digits from 00 through 99).

If the destination MC 224 224_x for the ESN is not available, the ESN routing method responds to the ESME with a command_status of service type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp, Data_SM_Resρ, or Submit_Multi_Resρ PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an MC 224_x-224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

The column of Table 4 labeled Query Supported represents support for Query_SM, Cancel_SM, and Replace SM operations. The Submit_SMJResp,

Data SMJResp, and Submit VIulti_Resp signals return a unique message Jd to the sending ESME 202 for each message submitted. The message Jd uniquely identifies the message and the MC 224ι-224_x that sent the message. The ESME 202 populates the message Jd parameter in the Query_SM, Cancel SM, and Replace SM operations with the message Jd returned in the original submission. The Query SM,

Cancel_SM, and ReplacejSM operations are discussed in more detail below. The SG 222 uses the message Jd to route the message to the correct MC 224_!-224_x. The MC 224χ-224_x uses the message Jd and associated parameters received in the message to perform the requested operation. To make most efficient use of MC 224ι-224_x and wireless network resources,

RIP are used by the ESME 202 when possible. To effectively implement RIP, all messages for the same service type and destination address (MDN) must be routed to the same MC 224ι-224_x for delivery. If a pending message for the service type and destination address (MDN) is present, it is replaced with the new message. This is not a problem when only one MC 224χ-224_x delivers a service. When a group of MCs 224ι-224_x delivers the same service, the problem is determining which MC 224ι-224_x in the group may contain a pending message that should be replaced by the current message.

Several solutions are possible: 1. Allow all MCs 224ι-224_x delivering a service to access a shared database of pending messages. RIP could then be implemented effectively by a group of MCs 224ι-224_x. Current MC 224ι-224χ architecture does not support this approach. 2. Establish a routing type at the SG 222 that routes a delivery request to the same MC 224_r224_x given service type and destination address.

Routing by MDN range implements option two above. For example, a service type requiring RD? is delivered by multiple MCs 224j-224_x. An NPA range is established, in the SG 222, for each MC 224ι-224χ. The SG 222 routes messages to the MCs 224ι-224_x, based on service type and NPA of the destination address

(MDN). Subsequent messages for the same service type and MDN are routed to the same MC 224ι-224_x using the MDN of the destination address. If RB? is requested and a message is pending, it is replaced at the MC 224ι-224_x.

With this routing method the MDN range has no significance to the MC 224ι~ 224_x or in the wireless network; it is only used as a routing mechanism between the

SG 222 and MC 224 224_x.

We now turn to routing methods for mobile originated messaging. The MO routing methods apply for MC 224ι-224_x to ESME 202 routing. A MO service type can have one of the following routing methods, illustrated in Table 9:

The following Table 10 describes the SMPP PDUs and parameters used for each MO routing method.

For destination address routing, the destination_address parameter contains the ff address of the destination ESME 202. The SG 222 routes to the ESME 202 using the ff address in the destination_address parameter. Routing is subject to destination ESME 202 being bound and anti-spam check based on service ype parameter. For the ESME 202 specific routing method, the SG 222 routes all Deliver_SM and Data JSM PDUs with the same servicejype to the same ESME 202. The ESME Specific routing method allows a primary and alternate destination ESME 202 to be defined. Definition of an alternate ESME 202 is not mandatory. The ESME 202 Specific routing method routes the MO message to the primary destination ESME 202 if the primary ESME 202 is available. The ESME 202 Specific routing method routes the MO message to the alternate destination ESME 202 if the primary ESME 202 is not available. If both primary and alternate ESMEs 202 are unavailable, the ESME 202 specific routing method responds to the MC 224ι-224_x with a commanάjstatus of service type not available in the Deliver SMJ esp or Data_SM_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an ESME because all the ESMEs defined to receive the servicejype are unavailable.

The Load Balancing routing method routes messages to a group of ESMEs 202 based on load capabilities of each ESME 202 in the group. Each ESME 202 in the group is allocated messages based on its capacity. Table 11 illustrates the message allocation:

The SG 222 provides a load balancing routing method for MO messages. The load balancing routing method routes all Deliver_SM or Data SM PDUs with the same service ype to one of a group of ESMEs 202 based on the load allocation established for each ESMEs 202. The load balancing routing method allows a group of ESMEs 202 delivering the same servicejype to be defined. The defined group contains two or more ESMEs 202. The load balancing routing method allows the proportion of messages allocated to each ESME 202 in the group to be defined. The proportion is defined as a percentage of messages allocated to each ESME 202. The load balancing routing method further routes messages to each of the ESMEs 202 in the load balancing group based on proportion of messages allocated to each ESME 202.

Using the example above, if 100 messages are routed for a service type in some time interval, the ESME-1 will receive 25 messages, the ESME -2 will receive 50 messages and the ESME -3 will receive 25 messages. The load balancing routing method routes messages to each of the ESMEs 202 in the group based on the proportion of messages allocated to it. If an ESME 202 in a load balancing routing method group becomes unavailable, the messages destined for the unavailable ESME 202 are routed to the remaining ESMEs 202. The messages are allocated to the remaining available ESMEs 202 based on the remaining ESMEs 202 allocation of total capacity. The allocation added to each remaining ESME 202 equals the allocation lost / number of remaining ESMEs 202.

Using the example above, if the ESME-3 becomes unavailable, then the allocation added to each remaining ESME = allocation lost / number of remaining ESMEs. The result of the allocation added to each of the remaining ESMEs = 25% / 2 (=12.5%). ESME-1 is now allocated 37.5% of the total (25% + 12.5% from

ESME-3) and ESME-2 is allocated 62.5% of the total (50% + 12.5% from ESME-3). If all ESMEs 202 in a load balancing routing group become unavailable, the routing method responds to the MC 224 224_x with a command_status of service type not available in the Deliver JSM_Resp or Data SM_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an ESME 202 because all the ESMEs 202 defined to receive the servicejype are unavailable.

The SG 222 also provides for routing according to the equal allocation method. According to the equal allocation method, all Deliver_SM and Data SM PDUs are routed with the same service ype to one of a group of ESMEs 202 based on sequentially sending messages to each ESME 202 in the group. The equal allocation routing method allows a group of ESMEs 202 delivering the same servicejype to be defined. The group contains two or more ESMEs 202. The equal allocation routing method sends an equal number of messages to each ESME 202 in the group. One message shall be sent to each of the destination ESMEs 202 before any destination ESME 202 is sent another message. If all ESMEs 202 in an equal allocation routing group become unavailable, the routing method responds to the MC 224₁-224_x with a command_status of service type not available in the Deliver SM_Resp or Data_SM_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an ESME 202 because all the ESMEs 202 defined to receive the servicejype are unavailable.

Another routing method is the destination IP address routing method. According to the destination ff address routing method, the SG 222 routes all Deliver JSM and DatajSM PDUs with the same servicejype to the address contained in the destination_address parameter.

The destination address routing method differs from the destination ff address routing method as follows. The SG 222 provides a destination address routing method for MO messages. The destination address routing method routes all Deliver JSM and Data_SM PDUs with the same service ype to a destination ESME 202 based on the value of the first four digits of the destination_addr parameter. The first four digits of the destination_addr parameter identify the ESME 202 to which the message should be routed. The destination address routing method allows destination address values to be assigned to an ESME 202. It is possible to assign more than one destination address value to an ESME 202. The destination address assigned to an ESME 202 is four digits in length. Valid destination address values are 0000 to 9999. The destination address routing method routes the Deliver JSM and DatajSM PDUs to the destination ESME 202 based on the value of the first four digits of the destination_addr parameter received in the Deliver JSM and Data_SM PDUs. The SG 222 maintains an association between the four-digit destination address value and an ESME 202. An example is shown in the following Table 12.

Given the destination address to ESME 202 associations shown in the previous table, the following Table 13 shows example routings.

If the value received in the first four digits of the destination_addr parameter does not correspond to any defined destination address values, the SG 222 returns an Invalid Dest Addr (OxOOOOOOOB) error code to the MC 224₁-22 . The SG 222 issues an alarm when an Invalid Dest Addr (OxOOOOOOOB) error code is sent to a MC 224ι- 224_x. The minimum information provided includes time, service type, source MC 224ι-224_x, and destination_addr of message. Other information may be provided.

The SG 222 logs all occurrences of an Invalid Dest Addr (OxOOOOOOOB) error code being sent to an MC 224ι-224_x. The minimum information provided includes time, service type, source MC, and destination_addr of message. Other information may be provided.

If the destination ESME 202 for the destination address is not available, the SG 222 responds to the MC 224ι-224_x with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Deliver _SM_Resp or Data_SM_Resρ PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an ESME 202 because all ESMEs 202 defined to receive the service ype are unavailable.

Having discussed both the MT and MO routing methods, we now turn to a discussion of the message Jd parameter. The message Jd parameter is returned to an ESME 202 by the MC 224 224_x when a message is submitted for delivery. The message Jd value is used subsequently by the ESME in Query, Cancel, and Replace (QCR) operations. The SG 222 supports three message Jd mapping modes. These are summarized in the following Table 14:

When mode - 1 message Jd mapping is selected, the SG 222 uses the provisioned MC 224χ-224_x message Jd range to route Cancel JSM, Replace JSM, and Query JSM PDUs to destination MCs 224 224_x.

If the MC 224i-224_x cannot provide unique message Jd values in response

PDUs, the SG 222 will provide this function. This is accomplished at the SG 222 by prepending a unique message center ID (MCID) value to the message Jd value returned by the MC 224₁-224_x in the Submit SM_Resp, Submit_Multi_Resp, Data_SM_Resp, and Deliver _SM_Resp PDUs. The SG 222 also is required to remove the prepended MCID values in Query JSM, Cancel_SM, and Replace JSM PDUs.

The modified message Jd will have the form of MCID + message Jd. Note that message ID mapping at SG 222 is only required to support CancelJSM, Replace JSM and Query JSM operations. The discussion below on MC Provisioning provides further details regarding the MCID, message ID mapping at SG 222, and MC message Jd range parameters. The SG 222 provides a message ID mapping at SG master on / off setting for each MC 224ι-224_x. If message ID mapping at SG 222 is set to on for a MC 224ι- 224_x, then the SG 222 requires a unique MCID value be defined for that MC 224 224_x. The MCID values are unique to a MC 224ι-224_x. ff the message ID mapping at the SG 222 is set to off, then the SG 222 does not provide unique message Jd mapping for the MC 224 224_x. The SG 222 assumes that the MC 224 224_x provides unique message Jd values as defined by the MC message Jd range parameter. The SG 222 provides a configurable MCID value for each MC 224 224_x defined at the SG 222. The MCID value is configurable between 001 and 999.

When the SG 222 receives a Submit jSMJResp, Submit JvlultiJResp,

Data SM_Resp, or Deliver SM_Resp PDU and message ID mapping at SG 222 is set to on, then the SG 222 prepends the MCID value to the message Jd value returned from the MC 224 224_x. The SG 222 then sends the response PDU containing the modified message Jd to the destination ESME 202. When the SG 222 receives a Query JSM, Cancel SM, or Replace SM PDU with a message center ID prepended to the message Jd, the SG 222 removes the MCED from the message Jd. The SG 222 then sends the PDU containing the message Jd (with MCID removed) to the destination MC 224_r224_x.

The SG 222 uses the MCID prepended to the message Jd in the Query JSM, CanceljSM, or Replace_SM PDUs to route the PDU to the correct MC 224_r224_x. The PDU is routed to the MC 224 224_x identified by the MCID. If the SG 222 receives a Query JSM, Cancel SM, or Replace SM PDU with a message Jd without a MCID prepended, the SG 222 attempts to route the PDU using the MC message Jd range parameter provisioned for the MC 224ι-224_x. If the routing attempt fails, the SG 222 returns Service type not available error code to the originating ESME 202. When message Jd mapping mode 3 is selected, Query, Cancel, and Replace PDUs are rejected at the SG 222. The SG 222 rejects these PDUs with the appropriate error code. When mode - 3 message Jd mapping is selected, the SG 222 rejects (1) all CanceljSM PDUs with the CanceljSM Failed error code, (2) all Query JSM PDUs with the Query JSM Failed error code, and (3) all ReplacejSM PDUs with the ReplacejSM Failed error code.

The message Jd mapping mode is configurable at the SG 222. Mode one, two, or three may be selected.

We will next discuss the query, cancel, and replace commands. The SG 222 supports receiving Query JSM and Query_SM_Resp PDUs. When the SG 222 receives a Query JSM PDU, it routes the message to the MC 224_r224_x identified by the message Jd parameter. When the SG 222 receives a Query SMJResp, it routes the message to the originating ESME 202. If the destination MC 224ι-224_x is unavailable or the message Jd parameter does not map to a known MC 224 224_x, the SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp, Data JSM_JResp, or Submit_Multi_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to a MC 224ι-224_x because all MCs 224 224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

The SG 222 supports receiving CanceljSM and Cancel_SM_Resp PDUs.

When the SG 222 receives a CanceljSM PDU with a message Jd value that is not null, it will route the message to the MC 224ι-224_x identified by the message Jd parameter. When the SG 222 receives a Cancel_SM_Resp, it routes the message to the originating ESME 202. When the SG 222 receives a Cancel SM PDU with a message Jd value that is null, it routes the message to the MC based on the servicejype parameter. If the servicejype is defined with the MC Specific or MDN Range routing methods, the CanceljSM PDU is routed according to the rules of the routing method. If the servicejype is defined with any other routing method, the SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp, Data JSM jlesp, or Submit JVIulti_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to a MC 224 224_x because all MCs 224_r224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

If the destination MC 224ι-224_x is unavailable or the message Jd parameter does not map to a known MC 224ι-224_x, the SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit SM_Resp,

DataJSM_Resp, or Submit JVIulti_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to a MC 224ι-224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable.

The SG 222 supports receiving ReplacejSM and Replace SMJResp PDUs. When the SG 222 receives a ReplacejSM PDU, it routes the message to the MC 224 224_x identified by the message Jd parameter. When the SG 222 receives a ReplacejSMJResp, it routes the message to the originating ESME 202. If the destination MC 224ι-224_x is unavailable or the message Jd parameter does not map to a known MC 224 224_x, the SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp,

Data 3M_Resp, or SubmitJvIultiJResp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to a MC 224ι-224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable. The SG 222 also supports the Enqu eJ ink and Enquire_Link_Resp PDUs, as well as the AlerLNotification PDU, which the SG 222 routes using the esme_addr parameter. The SG 222 maintains the operation states of MCs 224 224_x, ESMEs 202, and service types. The ESMEs 202 and service type may be disabled administratively. An ESME 202 may be prohibited from binding to the SG 222. A service type may be unavailable at the router because of administrative action or because all of the MCs 224ι-224_x or ESMEs 202 that provide that service type are unavailable. The SG 222 monitors the operating state of all the MCs 22A_X-22A_X that it is configured to route to. A MC 224χ-224_x has states of available or unavailable. The available state indicates that the MC is operating normally. The unavailable state indicates that the MC 224ι-224_x is not available and no messages will be routed to it.

The SG 222 maintains the permission state of all ESMEs 202 that it is configured to route to. An ESME 202 contains states of allowed or prohibited. The allowed state indicates that the ESME 202 is permitted to bind to the SG 222 and send and/or receive messages. The prohibited state indicates that the ESME 202 is not permitted to bind to the SG 222. If an ESME 202 with a state of prohibited attempts to bind to the SG 222 the SG 222 responds with a command_status of ESME Prohibited. If an ESME 202 is bound to the SG 222 and its state is changed to prohibited through administrative action, the SG 222 cancels the ESME's bind.

A service type may become unavailable for two reasons: First, all MCs 224ι- 224_x or ESMEs 202 delivering that service type become unavailable; and second, an administrator changes the state of service type to unavailable at the SG 222 to prohibit access to that service type. The SG 222 maintains the availability state of all service types to which it is configured to route. A service type has the states of available or unavailable. The available state indicates that the service type is available to ESMEs 202 (MT case) or MCs 224 224_x (MO case) for routing. The unavailable state indicates the service type is not available to ESMEs 202 (MT case) or MCs 224 224_x (MO case).

If a service type has a state of unavailable the SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit_SM_Resp, Data_SM_Resp, or Submit_Multi_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to a MC 224χ-224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to deliver the servicejype are unavailable for MT services. The SG 222 responds to the MC 224 224_x with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Deliver _SM_Resp or Data_SM_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an ESME 202 because all ESMEs 202 defined to receive the servicejype are unavailable, for MO services.

All changes to Service Type, ESME, and MC provisioning parameters are logged in an event log. The minimum information provided includes time, user id of person making the change, previous parameter value, and new parameter value. Additional information may also be provided.

The SG 222 provides a user interface for service type provisioning and configuration reporting. At a minimum, the SG 222 provides the following configurable parameters for each service type as shown in Table 15:

MT services are only assigned MT routing methods. MO services are only assigned MO routing methods. For ESME 202 provisioning, the SG 222 provides a user interface for ESME 202 provisioning and configuration reporting. At a minimum, the SG 222 provides the following configurable parameters for each ESME 202 as shown in Table 16:

For MC provisioning, the SG 222 provides a user interface for MC provisioning and configuration reporting. At a minimum, the SG 222 provides the following configurable parameters for each MC 224ι-224_x, shown in Table 17:

We now turn to more details regarding anti-spamming according to the present invention. The D2 220 provides anti-spam check capability for MO and MT messages. For MT messages, spam is defined as the number of MT delivery requests for a specific MS 236 exceeding a predefined number within a specific time interval. For example, spam for a particular service type may be defined as 20 delivery requests within three minutes. For MO messages, spam is preferably defined as the number of MO delivery requests from a specific MS 236 exceeding a predefined number within a specific interval. Other variations on how spam is defined may be provided as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

The following description is based on the following assumptions: (1) From the SG 222 perspective, the D2220 provides MDN-based anti-spam check capabilities; (2) For MT messages from e-mail addresses, a source address anti-spam check will have been performed before the message is delivered to the SG 222; and (3) For performance and capacity purposes, it is preferably assumed that 100% of MO message require anti-spamming (AS) check and 50% of MT messages require AS check.

An interface between the SG 222 and the D2220 will be used to perform the anti-spamming according to the present invention. With the details of the parameters and information disclosed herein, the appropriate interface between the SG 22 and the D2220 may be implemented by those of skill in the art.

An exemplary anti-spam algorithm will next be described. The D2 220 contains a list of barred MDNs. A MDN becomes barred if:

1. The MT anti-spam threshold for the MDN is exceeded;

2. The MO anti-spam threshold for the MDN is exceeded; or

3. The MDN has been placed on the barred list by administrative action.

The D2220 provides a MT anti-spam threshold and a MO anti-spam threshold. The MT and MO anti-spam thresholds are configurable. Their configuration consists of a number of delivery requests and the associated time interval. When a MDN exceeds either anti-spam threshold (MT or MO), it is placed on the barred list for a specific period of time, which may be referred to as the barred interval. When the barred interval expires, the MDN is removed from the barred list. The barred interval is configurable, one value for MO and one value for MT with units of minutes, days, or permanent. The D2 220 allows a MDN to be manually added to or removed from the barred list. When a MDN is added to the barred list manually, the user is given the option of applying the currendy defined barred interval or permanently barring the MDN.

The manner of performing an anti-spam check is next described. The D2220 is capable of receiving an AS JZheck query populated with destination_address, servicejype, and replace Jf_present_flag(RIP).

The RD? flag allows a message pending delivery at an MC to be replaced by a new message. For example, assume that a message for a specific MDN is pending delivery at the MC. A new message arrives for the MDN. Two actions are possible. First, the new message is added to the queue of messages for the MDN and, when available, the mobile receives all messages from the queue. Another possibility is to replace (RIP) the message, so that only one message is pending for a MDN at any one time. When combined with service type, RIP can be useful for delivering messages that are only valuable for a short period of time. For example, with weather reports, a subscriber would only want the most recent report, not all the ones that were missed. Therefore messages for this type of serice would use RIP. This also applies to messages used to program mobiles. E-mail messages would not use RIP because a subscriber wants to receive all of their e-mails, not just the most recent one.

The D2 220 checks if the MDN in destination_address is on the barred list. If MDN is on the barred list, the D2220 returns a "deny" in AS_Check_Resp. If the MDN is not on the barred list, the D2220 returns an "allowed" in AS_Check_Resp. After receiving an AS Jϋheck query and sending an AS_Check_Resp, the D2 220 updates its MT anti-spam threshold counters for the MDN associated with the query. If the MT anti-spam threshold value is exceeded for the MDN, the D2220 places the MDN on the barred list. A mobile originated message anti-spam check is next described. The D2220 is capable of receiving a AS_Check query populated with destination_address, servicejype, and source_address. The D2220 checks if the MDN in source_address is on the barred list. If MDN is on the barred list, the D2220 returns a "deny" in AS_Check_Resp. If the MDN is not on the barred list, the D2220 returns an

"allowed" in the AS_Check_Resp signal. After receiving an AS_Check query and sending an AS_Check_Resp, the D2220 updates its MO anti-spam threshold counters for the MDN associated with the query. If the MO anti-spam threshold value is exceeded for the MDN, the D2220 places the MDN on the barred list.

The D2220 does not require MDNs to be provisioned. The MDNs are added to the barred list based on queries received from the SG 222 or through administrative action.

A transaction is defined as receiving an AS_Check query and responding with an AS_Check_Resp. The D2220 is capable of scaling to meet future capacity requirements for anti-spam checking of MT, MO, and total messages, as described in the following Table 18:

The D2 220 provides a utility to configure and report MT anti-spam threshold, MO anti-spam threshold, MT barred interval, MO barred interval, MDNs on barred list, and MDNs placed on barred list manually. The D2220 also provides a utility to manually add or remove a MDN from the barred list.

The mobile terminated (MT) message delivery protocol, with an anti- spamming check, is next described. The ESME 202 submits messages for MT delivery using Submit JSM including servicejype and destination_address (MDN). The SG 222 checks for the servicejype parameter in Submit SM. If the service type has anti-spam check enabled, the SG 222 sends an 'AS_Check' message to the D2 220. The D2 220 checks the destination address, or mobile destination number (MDN) and service ype against anti-spam thresholds. For example, a query may indicate that thresholds have not been exceeded. If this is the case, the D2 220 returns status of 'allow' to the SG 222. The SG 222 routes the SubmitjSM signal to the destination MC 224ι-224_x. The destination MC 224 224_x returns a Submit JSMJResp signal to the SG 222. The SG 222 also returns a Submit JSMJResp signal to the ESME 202. The D2220 then sends an Update signal to DUE Server 218 to update its anti-spam counters. The DUE Server 218 responds to the D2 220 with an UpdateJResp signal containing the new status.

The MT message delivery protocol for an unsuccessful anti-spam check is next described. The ESME 202 submits a message for MT delivery using the SubmitjSM signal including servicejype and destination_address. The SG 222 checks the service ype parameter in the signal SubmitjSM. ff the service type has anti-spam check enabled, the SG 222 sends an 'AS_Check' message to the D2220. Parameters include servicejype and destination_address (MDN). The D2220 checks the MDN and servicejype against anti-spam thresholds, ff a query indicates that thresholds have been exceeded, the D2220 returns status of 'deny' to the SG 222. The SG 222 sends a SubmitjSG_Resp signal with command_status set to 'service denied' to the ESME 202. The D2 220 sends an Update signal to the DUE Server 218 to update its anti-spam counters. Finally, the DUE Server 218 responds to D2220 with an Update_Resp signal that contains a status.

FIG. 7 illustrates the communication between an ESME 202, SG 222 and MC 224ι-224_x for MT message delivery. An ESME 202 sends a SubmitjSM signal to the SG 222. The servicejype parameter identifies the service to be delivered. The SG 222 invokes routing method based on servicejype and routing method dependent parameters to select destination MC. The primary destination MC 224ι-224_x is selected. If primary destination MC 224ι-224_x is not available, a secondary MC 224 224_x is selected. If no MCs 224j-224_x are available to deliver the service, the SG 222 returns a new error 'service type not available' in command_status. The SG 222 sends SubmitjSM to destination MC 224ι-224χ. The destination MC 224 224_x replies with a Submit SM_Resρ signal. The message Jd parameter uniquely identifies the message and the MC 224ι-224_x that sent the message. The SG 222 sends Submit SMJResp to the ESME 202.

The replace Jf_present_flag (RIP) parameter is an optional parameter in Submit SM and SubmitJvIulti. ff the RIP option is included, the ESME 202 may send a SubmitjSM or SubmitJvIulti signal to the SG 222 with replacejf_present_flag set to 'Replace'.

A message that includes the RIP flag indicates that this message should replace any message pending (for a specific mobile) delivery at the MC. If a message is received with the RIP flag set and a message is pending at the MC 224ι- 224_x, the existing message (if there is one) is replaced. In this manner, the old or existing message is deleted. Therefore there is only one message pending for a mobile at any one time. For the RIP operation to work appropriately in the context of the present invention, the message must be routed using a deterministic routing method. A deterministic routing method is one that routes messages with the same service type and destination address to the same MC 224ι-224_x. All messages for the same service type and destination address must route to the same destination MC 224ι-224_x so it can be determined at the MC 224ι-224_x if a message is pending and needs to be replaced as specified by the Rff flag.

The SG 222 invokes a routing method such that a message is delivered to the MC 224ι-224_x that originally received the message. The primary destination MC 224_r224_x is selected. Some routing methods do not support Rff. If the MC 224 224_x that originally received the message is not available, then the message is sent to the secondary MC 224ι-224_x defined for the service. The original message will not be replaced. However, the new message will be delivered. Thus, the subscriber may receive the same message twice. All other steps are the same as described above.

The message flow for Data SM is the same as for SubmitjSM described previously. The RIP is not a valid parameter in the DataJSM parameter. The Data SM parameter may be used for interactive services.

MT service using the parameter SubmitJvIulti will now be described. An ESME 202 may use SubmitJvIulti specifying up to 254 destination addresses. The dest_address(es) parameter contains either the destination addresses or a Distribution List Name. The distribution list name is a file containing the destination addresses. The Message flow for SubmitJvIulti is the same as for SubmitjSM described previously. Rff is a valid parameter in SubmitJvIulti. Routing is based on the first destination address in the dest_address(es) parameter. For this approach to support RIP, the destination address list must be in the same order for each message to get routed to the correct MC 224ι-224_x. To support the distribution list, name-only routing to a specific MC 224ι-224_x is supported.

The present invention protects the MCs 224i-224_x and wireless network from undesirable or abusive messaging practices by providing address flow control and anti-spam checking. The objective of flow control is to protect the messaging complex 216 and wireless network from undesirably high MT message traffic. Each

ESME 202 has a maximum number of messages it is authorized to send to the SG 222 in a specific period of time. If the limit is exceeded, service is temporarily suspended.

All messages received from the ESME 202 during the suspension period are rejected with a command_status indicating throttling.

The objective of anti-spam checking is to protect the messaging complex 216 and wireless network by prohibiting an unreasonably high number of messages from being sent to or received from a specific MS 236 in a short period of time. If the number of messages sent to or received from a specific MS 236 in a specific time interval is exceeded, then subsequent message delivery requests for that MS 236 are rejected for a configurable time interval.

Flow control may also be applied to MT services. Anti-spam is preferably applied to MT and MO services. For each service type, the SG 222 maintains a flow control limit and anti-spam check (ASC) required parameter. The flow control limit is the maximum number of messages that an ESME 202 is allowed to send to the SG

222 in a specific time interval. The ASC parameter identifies whether messages for the service type require anti-spam check.

The present invention provides MT flow control between an ESME 202 and the SG 222. This is illustrated in FIG. 8. The ESME 202 sends SubmitjSM to the SG 222. The SG 222 determines that ESME 202 has exceeded its flow control limit. The SG 222 returns Submit SM_Resp with command_status set to existing error code 'Throttling error - ESME has exceeded allowed message limits' . Any SMPP message received from the ESME 202 during the suspension interval is rejected with the same throttling error message. Regarding anti-spamming, the existing Detect Undesirable Email (DUE) capability is enhanced to support queries from the SG 222. This capability is referred to herein as the D2220. For MT messages, spam is defined as the number of MT delivery requests for a specific MS 236 exceeding a predefined number within a specific time interval. For example, spam for a particular service type may be defined as 20 delivery requests within three minutes. For MO messages, spam is defined as the number of MO delivery requests from a specific MS 236 exceeding a predefined number within a specific interval.

The major functions of the D2220 are: (1) Receive a query from the SG 222 containing the service type, source address and destination address; (2) For an MT service, the D2 220 updates its message delivery request counters for the MDN contained in the destination address parameter. If the number of delivery requests have been exceeded for the time interval, then the D2220 returns a status of 'deny'. Otherwise, the D2220 returns a status of 'allow'; (3) For an MO service, the D2220 updates its message delivery request counters for the MDN contained in the source address parameter, ff the number of delivery requests have been exceeded for the time interval, then the D2220 returns a status of 'deny' . Otherwise, the D2220 returns a status of 'allow'; and (A) the D2 220 maintains a list of denied MDNs. If the MDN is on the denied list, the D2220 returns a status of 'deny' .

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary protocol for communicating between an ESME 202, SG 222, D2220, MC 224 224_x and MSC 232 for a mobile originated message where the system has an anti-spam check. We will first discuss an example of when the anti-spam check is successful. The MC 224ι-224_x receives an SMDPP signal for MO teleservice for delivery beyond the wireless network. The MC 224r224_x sends Deliver JSM including servicejype and source_address parameters to the SG 222. The SG 222 checks servicejype parameter in Deliver JSM. If service type has anti- spam check enabled, the SG 222 sends an 'AS Jϋheck' message to the D2220. Parameters include servicejype and source_address (MDN). The D2220 checks the MDN and servicejype against anti-spam thresholds. Assume for this example that a query indicates that thresholds have not been exceeded. The D2220 returns status of 'allow' to the SG 222. The D2220 updates counts for MDN and servicejype based on data received in AS_Check and time received. The SG 222 routes a Deliver_SM signal to the destination ESME 202. The ESME 202 returns a Deliver_SM_Resp signal to the SG 222, which returns the Deliver SM_Resp signal to the MC 224ι- 224_x.

Next, we will discuss the example process when the anti-spam check was unsuccessful. The MC 224_r224_x receives the SMDPP signal for MO teleservice for delivery beyond the wireless network. The MC 224_!-224_x sends a Deliver JSM signal including service ype and source_address parameters to the SG 222. The SG 222 checks servicejype parameter in Deliver JSM. ff the service type has anti-spam check enabled, the SG 222 sends 'AS_Check' message to the D2220. The parameters sent include service ype and source_address (MDN). The D2220 checks source address (MDN) and servicejype against anti-spam thresholds. Assume that a query indicates that thresholds have been exceeded. The D2 220 returns status of 'deny' to the SG 222. The D2220 updates counts for MDN and service ype based on data received in AS Check and time received. The SG 222 sends a Deliver JSM_Resp signal with command_status set to 'service denied' to MC 224_x- 224_x.

A combination flow control and anti-spam logic 400 is illustrated in FIG. 10. The logic 400 of FIG. 10 applies for both MT and MO messages. For an MT message, the SG 222 receives the MT message (404) and inquires whether the flow control limit is exceeded for the sending ESME (406). If yes, the SG 222 rejects the message and transmits a message that the flow control limit is exceeded (408). If the flow control limit for the ESME 202 is not exceeded (406), the process inquires whether the anti-spam procedure is enabled for that service type (410). If yes, an anti- spam query is sent to the D2 (412) and an anti-spam status is returned. If the anti- spam status is not allowed (414), the message is rejected and a response is provided that the anti-spam limit is exceeded and service is denied (416). If the anti-spam status is allowed, then the message is routed to the destination MC (418).

For a MO message received by the SG 402, the logic proceeds to step 410, and queries whether the anti-spam service is enabled for the service type 410. If yes, an anti-spam query is sent to D2 (412) and an anti-spam status is returned. If the anti- spam status is not allowed (414), the message is rejected and a response is provided that the anti-spam limit is exceeded and service is denied (416). If the anti-spam status is allowed, then the message is routed to the destination MC (418).

The MT message processing logic 300 at the SG 222 is shown with reference to FIG. 11. The performance requirements for MT message processing logic are that the ST 222 has a response time of 100ms if no D2220 query is required. The response time is defined as the time between receiving a PDU and subsequently routing and sending the PDU to its destination. The SG 222 also imposes not more than 125ms latency if a D2220 inquiry is required. Latency for this purpose is defined as the time between receiving a PDU and subsequently routing and sending the PDU minus the D2220 response time.

FIG. 11 is intended to describe the required message processing logic and not to dictate specific implementation details. When the SG 222 receives (302) a Submit SM, Data JSM, or SubmitJvIulti PDU from an ESME 202, it checks the bind state (304) of the sending ESME 202. ff the ESME 202 is not bound, the SG 222 rejects the message (306) and returns the appropriate error code in the response PDU (342). The SG 222 then waits for the next message 348. ff the ESME 202 is bound, when the SG 222 receives a SubmitjSM, Data SM, or SubmitJvIulti PDUs from an ESME 202, it verifies that the ESME 202 is authorized to request delivery of the service identified by the servicejype parameter (308). If the ESME 202 is not authorized to request delivery of the service identified by the servicejype parameter, the SG 222 rejects the message and responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of ESME Not Authorized for Service Type in the Submit JSMJResp, Data_SM_Resp, or Submit_Multi_Resp PDUs (310). Then the SG 222 waits for the next message (348).

ESMEs 202 are allowed to send messages to the SG 222 at a maximum rate. Messages in excess of the maximum rate are subject to throttle control by the SG 222. Throttle control enables the receivorship 200 to control the messaging traffic through the system according to the system capabilities and available resources. A sliding window algorithm is used to limit an ESME 202 to a maximum message delivery rate. When the SG 222 receives a PDU from an ESME 202, it verifies that the ESME 202 has not exceeded its authorized throttle control limit (312). ff the ESME 202 exceeds its throttle control limit, the SG 222 rejects the message and responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Throttling Error (ESME has exceeded allowed message limits) in the response PDU (314, 342). The SG 222 then waits for the next message. All messages received from an ESME 202 in excess of the throttle control limit are rejected by the SG 222 with a command_status of Throttling Error. None of the excess messages are routed to a destination MC 224ι-224_x. The message flow diagrams according to FIG. 11 may also apply to the SubmitJvIulti and Data_ SM PDUs.

The SG 222 logs all throttle control events to the event log. The minimum information provided includes time, ESME 202 subject to throttle control, number of messages rejected, and throttle control limit. Additional information may also be provided.

The SG 222 may issue an alarm at step 314 when throttle control is invoked for an ESME 202. The ESME 202 flow control alarm contains, at a minimum, time, ESME 202 subject to throttle control, number of messages rejected, and throttle control limit, plus other information if desired.

The logic process shown in FIG. 11 also involves an anti-spam check. The

AS_Check and AS_Check_Resp are logic messages exchanged between the SG 222 and the D2220. When the SG 222 receives a SubmitjSM, Data_SM, or SubmitJvIulti PDU from an ESME 202 with a servicejype defined to require an anti- spam check (316), the SG 222 sends an AS_Check request (318) to the D2220. For MT services, the AS_Check query contains the servicejype, source_addr (if present), destination_addr, and replace-if-present indicator. If the AS JϋheckJResp (320) has a value of deny, the SG 222 shall reject the message and respond to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Denied in the Submit_SMJResp, Data_SM_Resp, or Submit _Multi_Resp PDUs (322). If the AS_Check_Resp (320) has a value of allow, the SG 222 routes the SubmitjSM, Data JSM, or SubmitJvIulti PDU to the destination MC (324).

If the D2220 is unavailable, the SG 222 applies the anti-spam unavailable default action defined for the service type. The default action defined for each service type can be set to allow or deny, ff set to allow, then all messages requiring an Anti- Spam check are routed to the destination MC 224i-224_x when the D2 220 is unavailable. If set to deny, then all messages requiring an Anti-Spam check are rejected with a command_status of Service Denied.

If the D2220 is unavailable and the anti-spam unavailable default action defined for the service type is set to allow, the SG 222 routes all messages requiring an AS_Check as if the AS_Check_Resp returned allow (320, 324). If the D2220 is unavailable and the anti-spam unavailable default action defined for the service type is set to deny, the SG 222 routes all messages requiring an AS jC eck as if the AS_Check_Resp returned deny (320, 322).

The SG 222 logs all D2220 outages to the event log. The minimum information provided includes time and reason for outage, plus additional information if desired. The SG 222 may issue an alarm when the D2220 becomes unavailable. The D2220 unavailable alarm contains, at a minimum, time and reason for outage, plus additional information may be provided.

The SG 222 issues a clearing alarm when the D2 220 becomes available. The minimum information provided includes time and indication that the D2 220 is available. Additional information may be provided. The SG 222 logs when the D2 220 becomes available after an outage. The minimum information provided shall include time and indication that D2220 is available, plus additional information may be provided.

ff the MT message successfully completes bind check, service authorization check, throttle control check, and anti-spam check, the SG 222 invokes the routing method (324) for the service identified by the servicejype parameter. The SG 222 sends the SubmitjSM, Data JSM, or SubmitJvIulti PDU to the MC 224 224_x identified by the routing method to determine whether the identified MC 224i-224_x is available for the service type (326). The SG 222 receives the Submit SM_Resp, Data SM_Resp, or Submit JvIultiJResp PDU from the destination MC 224 224_x and subsequently sends it to the originating ESME 202 unaltered. The SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Service Type Not Available in the Submit _SM_Resp, Data_SM_Resp, or Submit_Multi_Resρ PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to a MC 224ι-224_x because all MCs 224ι-224_x defined to delivery the servicejype are unavailable (328). The SG 222 issues an alarm when a MT Service Type is not available (328). The minimum information provided in the alarm includes the time, Service Type, and indication that MT Service Type is unavailable, plus other information may be provided.

The SG 222 logs when a MT Service Type becomes unavailable. The minimum information provided includes the time, Service Type, and indication that MT Service Type is unavailable. Other information may be provided. The SG 222 issues a clearing alarm when a MT Service Type becomes available. The minimum information provided includes the time, Service Type, and indication that MT Service Type is available plus other information.

The SG 222 also logs when a MT Service Type becomes available. The minimum information provided includes time, Service Type, and indication that MT Service Type is available and optionally other information. The SG 222 logs all occurrences of when the Service Type Not Available command_status is returned to an ESME 202 (MT service type not available). The minimum information provided includes time, service type that could not be routed, and source ESME. Other information may be provided. The SG 222 responds to the ESME 202 with a command_status of Invalid Service Type in the Submit SMJResp, DataJSM_Resp, or Submit JVIultiJResp PDUs if the servicejype parameter contains an unrecognized or undefined service type value.

If the identified MC 224 224_x is available for the service type (326), the process includes inquiring whether the MC 224_!-224_x is subject to flow control and whether no alternate MC 224 224_x is available (330). If yes, the MC 224_r224_x is subject to flow control and no alternate MC 224ι-224_x is available, and if congestion exists, the message is rejected (332) and a response is sent back (342) to the originating ESME 202. The SG 222 then waits for the next message (348). If the MC 224 224_x is subject to flow control and an alternate MC 224ι-224_x is available (330), the message is routed to the destination MC (334). A response from the destination MC 22Aι~22A is sent (344). An MC 22A_i-22A can initiate flow control by returning a command_status of Congestion (346). If the MC 224_!-224_x response indicates congestion (346), and an alternate MC 224₁-224_x is available (336) for the service type, the SG 222 will route the message to the alternate MC 224ι-224_x as the destination MC (334). If an alternate MC 224ι-224_x is not available (336), the SG 222 returns the Congestion command_status to the originating ESME 202 and invoke flow control (338). The message is rejected due to congestion at the MC (340). A response is sent back (342) to the originating ESME 202 and the SG 222 waits for the next message (348). Flow control in this case is described more fully below in connection with FIG. 12.

If no test for congestion is desired, then step 346 shown in FIG. 11 may be omitted. In this case, the down-stream processes 336, 338 and 340 may be removed from FIG. 11 since following the received response from the destination MC 224χ- 224_x in step 344, the process proceeds directly to sending a response signal to the originating ESME 202 in step 342.

FIG. 12 illustrates in more detail the flow control message sequence discussed above in FIG. 11. FIG. 12 shows two scenarios: (1) an MT message, with a congested MC 224 224_x and no alternative MC 224 224_x available and (2) an MT message, the MC 224 224_x is congested, and an alternate MC 224ι-224_x available. We will begin with the first scenario. The ESME 202 submits a message for MT delivery using SubmitjSM including servicejype and destination_address. The SG 222 routes SubmitjSM to destination MC 224₁-224_x. The MC 224 224_x returns Submit JSMJResp to SG 222 with commandjstatus of congestion. No alternate MC 224_r224_x is defined or available for the servicejype. The SG 222 returns a Submit SMJResp signal to the ESME 202 with a command_status indicating congestion. The SG 222 invokes flow control for the MC 224i-224_x that returned the command_status indicating congestion. The SG 222 returns command_status of Congestion for all messages received while MC 224ι-224_x is subject to flow control. Next, suppose that the congestion at the MC 224ι-224_x abates. Then, flow control is discontinued at MC 224ι-224_x and normal message routing resumes.

When flow control is invoked, the SG 222 waits for a predefined gap interval, defined by a gap timer, before sending another message to a congested MC 224^224^ Flow control remains in effect as long as the receiving MC 224ι-224_x returns a Congestion command_status. If message delivery to the MC 224ι-224_x is successful, indicated by a command_status other than Congestion, flow control is discontinued. While flow control is in effect for a MC 224ι-224_x, all messages received by the SG 222 that would be routed to that MC 224ι-224_x receive a response commandjstatus of congestion. This indicates to the ESME 202 to invoke its flow control algorithm.

The SG 222 will return a commandjstatus of Congestion indicating that the ESME 202 should invoke flow control under the conditions described in Table 19:

Next, we will discuss the second scenario where an alternate MC 224i-224_x is available. In this case, the ESME 202 submits message for MT delivery using SubmitjSM including servicejype and destination_address. The SG 222 routes SubmitjSM to the destination MC 224 224_x. The destination MC 224 224_x returns Submit SMJResp to the SG 222 with command_status indicating congestion. An alternate MC 224 224_x is defined and available for the servicejype. The SG 222 routes the SubmitjSM to the alternate destination MC 224i-224_x. The alternate destination MC 224ι-224_x returns a SubmitJSMJResp signal to the SG 222 indicating message accepted. The SG 222 returns Submit JSM_Resp to the ESME 202.

When the SG 222 receives a SubmitJSMJResp, Data_SM_Resp, or Submit JvlultiJResp with a command_status of Congestion and an alternate MC 224 224_x is defined and available for the service type, the SG 222 routes the message to the alternate MC 224_r224_x. When the SG 222 receives a SubmitJSMJResp, DataJSM_Resp, or Submit_Multi_Resp with a command_status of Congestion and an alternate MC 224i-224_x is not defined or available for the service type, the SG 222 returns the Congestion command_status response to the ESME 202 . The SG 222 invokes flow control for the destination MC 224 224_x. The SG 222 starts a gap timer when flow control is invoked for a MC 224ι-224_x. While the destination MC 224ι- 224_x is subject to flow control while the gap timer has not expired, the SG 222 does not route any messages to the destination MC 224χ-224_x. While the destination MC 224]-224_x is subject to flow control while the gap timer has not expired, the SG 222 responds to all messages routed to the destination MC 224ι-224_x with a command_status of Congestion. When the gap timer expires, the next message received for the destination MC 224ι-224_x is sent to the destination MC 224ι-224_x. ff the destination MC 224χ-224_x responds with Congestion in the response command_status, flow control continues, ff the destination MC 224ι-224_x responds with a command_status other than congestion, flow control is discontinued.

The SG 222 issues an alarm when flow control is invoked for an MC 224ι- 224_x. The MC 224ι-224χ flow control invoked alarm contains, at a minimum, time, MC 224ι-224_x subject to flow control, whether messages were routed to an alternate MC 224ι-224_x (if alternate MC is defined), or if congestion indication was returned to originating ESME 202. Additional information may be provided. The SG 222 logs when flow control is invoked for a MC 224ι-224_x. The minimum information provided includes time, MC 224ι-224_x subject to flow control, whether messages were routed to alternate MC 224ι-224_x (if alternate MC is defined), or if congestion indication was returned to originating ESME 202 . Additional information may be provided.

The SG 222 issues an alarm when flow control is discontinued for an MC 224r224_x. The MC 224ι-224_x flow control discontinued alarm contains, at a minimum, the time, MC 224ι~224_x subject to flow control, duration flow control was in effect, and number of messages rejected during flow control. Additional information may be provided. The SG 222 logs when flow control is discontinued for a MC 224i-224_x. The minimum information provided includes time, MC 224 224_x subject to flow control, duration flow control was in effect, and number of messages rejected during flow control. Additional information may be provided.

FIG. 13 illustrates exemplary message processing for a MO message. FIG. 13 shows three different scenarios: (1) An MO message with no anti-spam; (2) an MO message with anti-spam check successful; (3) an MO message with anti-spam check unsuccessful.

We first discuss an MO message with no anti-spamming performed. The MC 224ι-224_x receives a SMDPP signal containing a MO message. The SMDPP contains the TDD, bearer data, source address, and destination address. The MC 224ι-224_x sends DeliverjSM message to the SG 222 and the SG 222 invokes a routing method based on service ype and destination_addr to select a destination ESME 202. If no ESMEs 202 are available to deliver the service, the SG 222 returns an error of 'service type not available'. The MC 224ι-224_x then resends the message to the SG 222 at a later time. The SG 222 sends Deliver SM to the destination ESME 202. The destination ESME 202 replies with Deliver_SM_Resp signal. The SG 222 sends a Deliver SMJResp signal to the MC 224ι-224_x. The replacejf_present_flag parameter is not used in Deliver JSM; therefore the RIP option may not be available for MO messages. The MC 224ι-224χ may use Data JSM for delivering MO messages to the SG

222. Message flow for Data SM is the same as for Delivery JSM described previously. RIP is not a valid parameter in the DatajSM signal.

Next, we discuss the MO message delivery when the anti-spam check is successful. The MC 224r224_x receives a SMDPP for MO teleservice for delivery beyond wireless network. The MC 224ι-224_x sends DeliverjSM including servicejype and source_address parameters to the SG 222. The SG 222 checks servicejype parameter in DeliverjSM. If service type has anti-spam check enabled, the SG 222 sends 'AS_Check' message to the D2220. Parameters include servicejype and source_address (MDN). The D2220 checks source address (MDN) and servicejype against anti-spam thresholds.

A query may indicate that thresholds have not been exceeded. The D2 220 returns status of 'allow' to the SG 222. The SG 222 routes DeliverjSM to the destination ESME 202. The ESME 202 returns Deliver JSMJResp to the SG 222. The SG 222 returns to Deliver JSMJResp to MC 224_r224_x. The D2220 sends Update to DUE Server 218 to update its anti-spam counters. The DUE Server 218 responds to D2 220 with UpdateJResp containing status.

Finally, with FIG. 13, we discuss the scenario where a MO message delivery occurs with the anti-spam check unsuccessful. The MC 224χ-224_x receives an SMDPP for MO teleservice for delivery beyond the wireless network. The MC 224χ- 224_x sends Deliver SM including servicejype and source_address parameters to the SG 222. The SG 222 checks servicejype parameter in DeliverjSM. If service type has anti-spam check enabled, the SG 222 sends 'AS Dheck' message to the D2 220. Parameters include servicejype and source_address (MDN). The D2220 checks the MDN and service ype against anti-spam thresholds. A query may indicate that thresholds have been exceeded. The D2220 returns status of 'deny' to the SG 222. The SG 222 sends DeliverjSGJResp with commandjstatus set to 'service denied' to the MC 224ι-224_x. The D2 220 sends an Update to DUE Server 218 to update its anti-spam counters. The DUE Server 218 responds to D2220 with Update Jlesp containing status. The message flow shown in FIG. 13 also applies to DatajSM PDU.

MO message processing logic 500 at the SG 222 is shown in FIG. 14. When the SG 222 receives a DeliverjSM or DatajSM PDU from an MC 224ι-224_x, it checks the bind state (504) of the sending MC 224 224_x. If the MC 224 224_x is not bound, the SG 222 rejects the message (506) and indicates that the ESME 202 is not bound in the response to the originating MC (526). An appropriate error code is included in the response PDU. The SG 222 then waits for the next MO message (528).

When the SG 222 receives a DeliverjSM or DatajSM PDU 502 from an MC 224ι-224_x with a servicejype configured to require an anti-spam check (508), the SG 222 sends an AS_Check request to the D2 (510). For MO service types, the AS_Check query is populated with destination_address, servicejype, and source_address parameters. If the AS J heck_Resp has a value of deny (512), the SG 222 rejects the message (514) and responds to the MC (526) with a command_status of Service Denied in the Deliver _SM_Resρ or Data_SM_Resp PDUs. The SG 222 waits for the next MO message (528). If the MO message successfully completes bind check (504) and anti-spam check (512)(the anti-spam status is "allowed"), or if the anti-spam service is not enabled for the service type (508), the SG 222 invokes the routing method (516) for the service identified by the servicejype parameter. The SG 222 determines whether an ESME 202 is available for the service type (518). The SG 222 sends the

Deliver SM or DatajSM PDU to the ESME 202 identified by the routing method. The SG 222 receives the Deliver SMJResp or Data JSMJResp PDU from the destination ESME 202 and subsequently sends it to the originating MC 224i-224_x unaltered. The SG 222 responds to the MC 224ι-224_x with a commandjstatus of Service Type Not Available in the Deliver JSMJResp or Data SM_Resp PDUs if the SG 222 cannot route a message to an ESME 202 because all ESMEs 202 defined to receive the servicejype are unavailable (520).

The SG 222 logs all occurrences of when the Service Type Not Available commandjstatus is returned to an MC 224ι-224_x (MO service type not available). The minimum information provided includes time, service type that could not be routed, and source MC 224p224_x. Other information may be provided. The SG 222 may issue an alarm (520) when a MO Service Type is not available. The minimum information provided includes the time, Service Type, and indication that MO Service Type is unavailable. Other information may be provided. The SG 222 logs when a MO Service Type becomes unavailable. The minimum information provided includes time, Service Type, and indication that MO Service Type is unavailable, plus other optional information.

The SG 222 issues a clearing alarm when an MO Service Type becomes available. The minimum information provided includes time, Service Type, and indication that MO Service Type is available. Additional information may also be provided. The SG 222 logs when a MO Service Type becomes available. The minimum information provided includes time, Service Type, and indication that MO Service Type is available, plus other information may also be provided.

If the response from the ESME 202 indicates that it is available for the service type (518), the message is routed to the destination ESME (522) and a response is sent to the SG 222 from the ESNE 202 indicating that the message was received (524, 526). Finally, the SG 222 waits for the next MO message (528). The SG 222 responds to the MC 224 224_x with a command_status of Invalid Service Type in the Deliver_SM_Resp or DataJSM_Resp PDUs if the servicejype parameter contains an unrecognized or undefined service type value.

We now turn to the cancel operation according to the present invention. This is illustrated in FIG. 15. A cancel operation is used by an ESME 202 to cancel one or more previously submitted messages. A specific message can be canceled based on the message Jd and servicejype parameters. A set of messages can be canceled using the servicejype and destination_address parameters. FIG. 15 illustrates the cancel message procedure between an ESME 202, the SG 222, and the MC 224i-224_x.

To cancel a single message, the ESME 202 sends a CanceljSM to the SG 222. The message Jd parameter is populated with the message Jd returned in the original SubmitjSM, DatajSM, or SubmitJvIulti message. The SG 222 routes the CanceljSM to the MC 224 224_x that received the original message. The message Jd parameter uniquely identifies the MC 224ι-224_x that originally received the message. Note that not all routing methods support canceling messages, ff the MC 224r224_x that originally received the message is not available, then the SG 222 returns a new error code 'Service type not available' in commandjstatus. The destination MC 224ι-224_x replies with Cancel jSM_Resp. The SG 222 sends Cancel JSMJResp to the ESME 202.

To cancel all messages previously submitted for a specific destination address and service type, the ESME 202 sends a CanceljSM to the SG 222. The message Jd parameter is set to null; the servicejype is set to the service type of the messages to be cancelled. The destination_addr is set to the destination addresses of the messages to be canceled. The SG 222 routes the CanceljSM to the MC 224i-224_x that received the original messages. Routing is based on servicejype and destination_addr. If the MC 224ι-224_x that originally received message is not available, then the SG 222 returns a new error code 'Service type not available' in commandjstatus. The destination MC 224₁-224_x replies with Cancel_SM_Resp. The SG 222 sends a Cancel _SM_Resp signal to the ESME 202.

Next, the replace opration is described with reference to FIG. 16. The replace operation is used by an ESME 202 to replace a previously submitted message that is pending delivery. An ESME 202 sends a Replace_SM signal to the SG 222. The message Jd parameter is populated with the message Jd returned in the original SubmitjSM, SubmitJvIulti message. The ESME 202 retains the message Jd returned in the original message. The SG 222 routes the ReplacejSM to the MC 224ι-224_x that received the original message. The message Jd parameter uniquely identifies the MC 224 224_x that originally received the message. If the MC 224 224_x that originally received message is not available, then the SG 222 returns a new error code 'Service type not available' in command_status. The destination MC 224j- 224_x replies with ReplacejSM_Resp containing message status. The SG 222 sends ReplacejSM JResp to the ESME 202. FIG. 17 shows an example of a check link status inquiry. In this case, the ESME 202 inquires regarding the link between the ESME 202 and the SG 222. The SG 222 may send Enquire_Link to the MC 224ι-224_x to check the application level communications link between the SG 222 and the MC 224 224_x. The MC 224 224_x responds with Enquire J inkJlesp. The ESME 202 may send Enquire J ink to the SG 222 to check the application level communications link between the ESME 202 and the SG 222. the SG 222 responds with Enquire_Link_Resp.

FIG. 18 illustrates the alert notification protocol used by the MC to notify an ESME 202 that an MS 236 has become available. The ESME 202 sends a DatajSM signal to the SG 222 with set_dpf set for delivery failure request. The SG 222 routes DatajSM to destination MC 224ι-224_x. The MC 224 224_x attempts message delivery. If the MS 236 is not available, the MC 224ι-224_x returns DatajSM JResp to the SG 222 indicating the dpf_status. The SG 222 sends Data JSMJResp to the ESME 202 indicating the dpf_status. At some later time, the MC 224ι-224_x successfully delivers the message to the MC 224 224_x. The MC 224 224_x sends Alert JSfotification to the SG 222 indicating dpf_status. The SG 222 routes Alert JMotification to the ESME 202 using the esme_addr parameter.

Over-the-air activation is also available with the introduction of the SG 222 into the messaging complex 216. FIG. 19 illustrates an example activation message flow according to the present invention. An OTAF sends a SubmitjSM signal to the SG 222. The MS 236 number assignment module (NAM) data is contained in the short_message parameter. The NAM data associates the mobile identification number (MIN) with the electronic serial number (ESN). The destination_address parameter contains activation MUST. For an Initial Over the Air Activition (IOAA), the SG 222 extracts the electronic serial number (ESN) from the MS NAM data in the short_message parameter. The IOAA process refers to the first time a phone is activated over the air. During IOAA, parameters are downloaded to the phone allowing it to operate in the wireless network. For example, the phone receives its MDN (phone number) along with other parameters required for it to operate in the network.

Routing is based on odd or even ESN value. The SG 222 routes SubmitjSM to the destination MC 224 224_x based on the ESN value. If an MC 224 224_x is not available, the SG 222 returns 'service not available' in commandjstatus. The MC 224ι-224_x responds with SubmitJSMJResp with a unique message Jd. The message Jd can subsequently be used to query or cancel request from the OTAF. The SG 222 sends a Submi _SM_Resp signal to the OTAF. The MS 236 registers with activation MIN at the MC 224 224_x. A REGNOT signal is routed to the MC 224ι- 224_x by STP based on odd or even ESN value. Then IOAA can occur using existing procedures. For the operation of reprogramming over-the-air-activation (ROAA), the

OTAF sends a SubmitjSM signal to the SG 222. The MS NAM data is contained in the shortjnessage parameter. The destination_address parameter contains the MIN of the MS 236. Then the steps from the SG 222 extracting the ESN through the SG 222 sending the SubmitJSMJResp to OTAF signal are the same as the IOAA above. The MC 224 224_x sends a SMSGEQ signal to the HLR 226. The HLR 226 responds with a SMSGEQ signal containing the SMS_Address. If the MS 236 is not registered, the standard delivery pending and SMSNOT procedures apply. Then, ROAA can be accomplished using existing procedures.

At the MC 224ι-224χ providing OTAP, Rff is set to 'replace' globally. Any pending activation (IOAA or ROAA) for a specific destination_address is replaced regardless of the RIP parameter in Submit SM. The SG 222 must route IOAA and ROAA requests for the same MS 236 to the same MC 224ι-224_x so pending messages can be replaced if present. The Rff is based on destination_address. The Destination address is the activation MIN for IOAA and MIN for ROAA. Therefore, the SG 222 routing is based on ESN not MUST.

The SG 222 will have certain functions that it performs. These include security, anti-spam and flow control, and ESME - SG flow control. Regarding security issues, the ESMEs 202 will communicate with the SG 222 using dedicated network connections. The SG 222 is not connected to the Internet. The SG 222 implementation and communication with ESMEs 202 must meet established security requirements. The ESME 202 must be authorized to bind to the SG 222. Parameters for binding include System ID, specific socket, and password. The ESME 202 must be authorized to request delivery of a specific service type. The ESME 202 must be authorized for each service type it is allowed to delivery. An ESME 202 may be authorized to deliver more than one service type, ff the ESME 202 requests delivery of a service type for which it is not authorized, the request will be rejected. Encryption of messages between ESME 202 and SG 222 should not be required.

Having discussed the various functions of the SG 222, we now turn to FIG. 20, wherein example hardware requirements for the SG 222 are disclosed. The main components of the SG 222 include at least one switch and at least one router. The ESMEs 202 transmit messages through an ff network 250 to the SMPP gateway 222. The SMPP gateway 222 comprises at least two routing servers, such as the Sun Microsystem Netra T 1400 Dual 440 MHz processor servers with 1GB memory and two 18 GB disks. The SG 222 is scalable from 2 to n routing nodes 264ι - 264_n. Other more current computer servers may also be used and are contemplated as within the scope of the invention. Other features such as slots for removable media devices and other standard equipment are well known to those of skill in the art.

The servers control at least one and preferrably two Cisco Local Director Routers 252, 254 as switches. Preferrably, TCP/IP is the networking protocol to provide communication across the diverse networks. Each switch 252, 254 preferrably contains a primary 256, 260 and a secondary 258, 262 component, respectively, for controlling the destination of each message received from the IP network 250. The destination of each message from the primary 256, 260 or secondary 258, 262 components of the switches 252, 254 is a first routing node 264ι or a second routing node 264₂, up to "n" routing nodes. These routers are preferrably Cisco Local Director Routers comprising LocalDirector 420, a four port 10/100 Ethernet card in a rack-mounted arrangement. The routers 264ι, 264 route the messages to the appropriate message center 224ι, 224₂, or 224_x. While specific hardware components are mentioned as preferable, this is not meant to limit the general components to any type of router, computer server, or switch that performs the functions disclosed herein for the SG 222.

Although the above description may contain specific details, they should not be construed as limiting the claims in any way. Other configurations of the described embodiments of the invention are part of the scope of this invention. For example, the above description discusses messages being passed between an ESME and a wireless device. However, the SG may be modified to route messages between wireless carriers. Thus, messages may be passed from a subscriber of one wireless carrier to a subscriber of another carrier for both MO and MT messages. Accordingly, the appended claims and their legal equivalents should only define the invention, rather than any specific examples given.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A system for allowing an external short message entity to submit a message to be delivered to a message receiving device, comprising: a short messaging point-to-point gateway communicating with a plurality of messaging centers, wherein the external short message entity connects to the short messaging point-to-point gateway and requests delivery of a message to the message receiving device, and the short message point-to-point gateway routes the request to an appropriate messaging center.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway is configured such that any external short messaging entity only needs to have knowledge of a single protocol for requesting delivery of messages from the short messaging point-to-point gateway.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway determines a routing method based on a service type.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the external short messaging entity connects to the short messaging point-to-point gateway by submitting a bind request signal including a system identification, password and system type.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway responds to the bind request with a bind response signal including a system identifier and an error message if a bind is not successful.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein if a bind is not successful, the bind response signal includes an error signal indicating why the bind was not successful.

7. The system of claim 3, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway communicating with a plurality of messaging centers further comprises the short messaging point-to-point gateway determining a routing method to a destination message center according to the service type.

8. The system of claim 3, wherein the routing method is one selected from a group consisting of message center specific, load balancing, mobile directory number (MDN) range, equal allocation, and electronic serial number (ESN).

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the message center specific routing method further comprises routing all messages for the service type of the routed message to a specific messaging center.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the load balancing routing method further comprises routing messages to a group of message centers based on load capabilities of each message center in the group of message centers.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein the MDN range routing method further comprises routing messages to a specific message center based on the MDN range of the destination address.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the MDN range routing method further comprises using service type and destination address for routing decisions.

13. The system of claim 8, wherein the equal allocation routing method further comprises routing messages to a group of message centers based on sequentially sending messages to each message center in the group of message centers such that each message center in the group receives an equal number of messages.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein the ESN routing method further comprises using the service type and a short message parameter for routing decisions.

15. The system of claim 14, wherien the ESN routing method further comprises routing activation requests to two or more message centers delivering over- the-air activation teleservices.

16. The system of claim 8, wherein a primary destination message center is chosen based on the routing method.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein a secondary destination messaging center is chosen if the primary destination messaging center is unavailable.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the primary destination messaging center or secondary destination messaging center are determined using the routing method, routing data, and parameters in the message.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the messaging center receiving the message delivers messages of the service type of the message being delivered.

20. The system of claim 3, wherein the service type is selected from a group consisting of a mobile terminated short messaging service, a high priority short messaging service, a mobile originated short messaging service, an information service, a telematics service, a wireless application protocol service, an over-the-air activation service, or an over-the-air programming service.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway further comprises internal routing tables indicating a status of each of the plurality of messaging centers.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway is configured with bind parameters for each of the plurality of messaging centers.

23. A system for allowing a message source to submit a message to be delivered to a message receiving device, the system comprising: a short messaging point-to-point gateway operatively connected with a plurality of messaging centers, wherein the message source connects to one of the plurality of messaging centers, and the one of the plurality of messaging centers submits a request to the short messaging point-to-point gateway for delivery of a message to the message receiving device, and the short message point-to-point gateway routes the request to the message receiving device.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway determines a routing method based on a service type.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway is configured to inquire whether anti-spamming is enabled according to a service type.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the message source connects to the one of the plurality of messaging centers by submitting a short message containing

TID, bearer data, source address and destination address.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the one of the plurality of messaging centers connects to the short messaging point-to-point gateway by sending a delivery short message signal to the short messaging point-to-point gateway.

28. The system of claim 27, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway uses a determined routing method to select the message receiving device.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein the message receiving device is an external short messaging entity.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the external short messaging entity returns to the short messaging point-to-point gateway a response signal, and wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway transmits the response signal to the one of the plurality of messaging centers.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the routing method is selected from a group consisting of message receiving device specific, load balancing, equal allocation, destination ff address, and destination address.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein the message receiving device specific routing method further comprises routing all messages for the service type to a specific message receiving device.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein the load balancing routing method further comprises routing messages to a group of message receiving devices based on load capabilities of each message receiving device in the group of message receiving devices such that each message receiving device is allocated messages based on its capacity.

34. The system of claim 31, wherein the equal allocation routing method further comprises routing messages to a group of message receiving devices based on sequentially sending messages to each message receiving device in a group of message receiving devices such that each message receiving device receives an equal number of messages.

35. The system of claim 31 , wherein the destination IP address routing method further comprises routing messages to a destination based on the IP address contained in a destination address parameter.

36. The system of claim 31, wherien the destination address routing method further comprises routing messages to a destination message receiving device based on a value of a destination address parameter.

37. A messaging complex for routing messages from a message delivery device to a message receiving device, the messaging complex comprising: a short messaging point-to-point gateway; a plurality of messaging centers, each of the plurality of messaging centers communicating with the short messaging point-to-point gateway,

38. The messaging complex of claim 37, wherein the short messaging point-to-point gateway receives messages from the message delivery device and routes the messages to one of the plurality of messaging centers according to service type.

39. The messaging complex of claim 38, wherein the message delivery device is one of a plurality of message delivery devices, and wherein any of the plurality of message delivery devices communicates with the short messaging point- to-point gateway using a consistent interface.

40. The messaging complex of claim 39, wherein the message receiving device is a wireless device.

41. The messaging complex of claim 40, the short messaging point-to- point gateway further providing throttle control.

42. The messaging complex of claim 41, further comprising: an anti-spam server communicating with the short messaging point-to- point gateway further providing anti-spam checking.

43. A message complex for communicating with at least one message source, the message complex comprising: a gateway adapted to communicate with the at least one message source, the gateway routing short message point-to-point (SMPP) messages received from the at least one message source to a primary or secondary destination according to service type having a routing method, the destination determined according to the routing method, routing data, and parameters in the SMPP messages; a plurality of message centers communicating with the gateway, the gateway providing a logical interface for the SMPP messages going to and from any of the plurality of message centers, the gateway supporting query, cancel, replace and replace-if-present functions, the at least one message source binding to the gateway as a transmitter for mobile terminated services, the at least one message source acting as a receiver for mobile originated services, and the at least one message source acting as a transceiver for both mobile terminated and mobile originated services; and a spam control processor communicating with the gateway, wherein the gateway provides a single interface between each at least one message source and the plurality of message centers, and wherein: the routing method for a mobile terminated message is one of the following routing methods: a message center specific, load balancing, mobile destination number range, equal allocation, and electronic serial number, and the routing method for a mobile originated message is one of the following routing methods: ESME specific, load balancing, equal allocation, destination IP address and destination address.

44. A method of delivering a message from a message source device to a message receiving device through a gateway communicating with a plurality of messaging centers, the method comprising: transmitting a message from the message source device to the gateway, the message being associated with a service type; determining a routing method based on the service type; and routing the message to one of the plurality of messaging centers according to the routing method.

45. A method of delivering a message according to claim 44, wherein the message source device is one of a plurality of different message source devices that communicate with the gateway using a single interface protocol.

46. A method of delivering a message according to claim 45, wherein the routing method is selected from a group consisting of message center specific, load balancing, mobile destination number (MDN) range, equal allocation and electronic serial number.

47. A method of delivering a message according to claim 46, wherein the message center specific routing method routes all messages for the service type of the routed message to a specific messaging center.

48. A method of delivering a message according to claim 46, wherein the load balancing routing method routes messages to a group of message centers based on load capabilities of each message center in the group of message centers.

49. A method of delivering a message accordmg to claim 46, wherein the MDN range routing method routes messages to a specific message center based on the MDN range of the destination address.

50. A method for binding a message source to a gateway for a mobile terminated message, independent of message source or message destination, the method comprising: sending a bind transmitter signal to the gateway including a message source identification, password and system type, wherein the system type identifies the type of service that the message source will deliver; verifying from the gateway that the message source is authorized to bind to the gateway using the message source identification, password and system type; returning a gateway identification signal if the message source is authorized to bind to the gateway; and returning a command status signal including a bind failed signal, invalid password or invalid message source identification if the bind is not successful.

51. A method for binding a message source to a gateway for a mobile originated message, the method comprising: sending a bind receiver signal to the gateway including a message source identification, password and system type, wherein the system type identifies the type of service that the message source will deliver; verifying from the gateway that the message source is authorized to bind to the gateway using the message source identification, password and system type; returning a gateway identification signal if the message source is authorized to bind to the gateway; and returning a command status signal including a bind failed signal, invalid password or invalid message source identification if the bind is not successful.

52. A method for binding a message source to a gateway for interactive services, the method comprising: sending a bind tranceiver signal to the gateway including a message source identification, password and system type, wherein the system type identifies the type of service that the message source will deliver; verifying from the gateway that the message source is authorized to bind to the gateway using the message source identification, password and system type; returning a gateway identification signal if the message source is authorized to bind to the gateway; and returning a command status signal including a bind failed signal, invalid password or invalid message source identification if the bind is not successful.

53. A system for detecting undesirable messages send from a message source, the system comprising: a spam control server; and a short message point-to-point gateway communicating with the spam control server, wherein the spam control server performs an anti-spamming check upon the submission of a message from the message source.

54. The system of claim 53, wherein the spam control server performs an anti-spamming check if a service type associated with the message requires an anti- spam check.

55. The system of claim 54, wherein if the message requires an anti-spam check, the gateway submits an anti-spam check signal to the spam control server.

56. The system of claim 55, wherein the the anti-spamming check is performed with reference to a predetermined anti-spamming threshold.

57. The system of claim 56, wherein the spam-control server checks a destination address and the service type parameter against the predetermined anti- spamming threshold.

58. A method of providing throttle control in a gateway between a message source and a destination message center, the method comprising: receiving a message from a message source at the gateway; determining whether the message source has exceeded a throttle control limit; and transmitting a throttling error to the message source if the message source has exceeded the throttle control limit according to the determining step.

59. The method of providing throttle control of claim 58, further comprising: reducing a message sending rate from the message source after receiving the throttling error.

60. The method of providing throttle control of claim 58, further comprising: invoking throttle control if the message source has exceeded the throttle control limit according to the determining step.

61. The method of providing throttle control of claim 60, wherein throttle control further comprises rejecting messages transmitted by the message source to the gateway while the message source is transmitting messages at a rate exceeding the throttle control limit.

62. The method of providing throttle control of claim 58, further comprising: routing the message to a message center if the determing step determines that the throttle control limit is not exceeded.

63. A method for providing flow control associated with a gateway connecting at least one message source and a primary message center, the method comprising: transmitting from the gateway a message from the message source to the primary message center; determining whether the primary message center is congested; and invoking flow control for the primary message center if the determining step indicates that the primary message center is congested.

64. A method for providing flow control of claim 63, further comprising: returning from the primary message center to the gateway a status of congested if the primary message center is congested; and determining whether an alternate message center is available; and transmitting the message to the alternate message center if an alternate message center is available.

65. A method for providing flow control of claim 64, further comprising: returning from the gateway to the primary message source a status of congestion if the primary message center is congested, wherein invoking flow control further comprises rejecting all messages received at the gateway for the primary message center while the primary message center is subject to flow control.

66. A method for providing flow control of claim 65, further comprising: determining whether congestion has abated at the primary message center; and discontinuing flow control when it is determined that congestion has abated at the primary message center.

67. A method for providing flow control of claim 64, further comprising: returning a response signal from the alternate message center to the gateway indicating reception of the message.

68. A method for providing flow control of claim 65, further comprising: waiting for a predetermined time period before sending another message from the gateway to the primary message center that is congested.