The Aricent Diameter is based on a modular architecture comprising a base Diameter Node, the Diameter Front Nodes (DFN) and multiple Application Processing Nodes (APNs). The DFN implements the core Diameter functionality whereas APNs add application-specific functionalities. A typical usage would consist of a DFN and one or more APNs depending upon the required functionality. Illustration 1 depicts the modular architecture of the Aricent Diameter Stack.

Diameter Stack Architecture

The Aricent Diameter solution is based on a highly distributed architecture that allows running multiple instances of the DFN and the APN over a single server or multiple servers. This distribution imparts scalability and high performance to the solution. Reliability is achieved through the ACTIVE-STANDBY model in the DFN wherein the ACTIVE Node does the processing. In the event of the termination of the ACTIVE Node, the STANDBY Node assumes the active role and starts processing. This ensures continuous uptime of the solution.

The DFN supports a multithreaded architecture. It consists of multiple threads, each carrying out a specific functionality, which makes the overall system more reliable and efficient. Based on a modular design, the Aricent Diameter is easy to understand and use. It exposes well-defined APIs at each module that allows easy integration with customer applications. The APIs are offered in multiple languages to support varied customer requirements.