Deployment architectures

Centralized functions

Distributed functions

Completely centralized

SGSN + GGSN

MME + SGW + PGW

Completely distributed

MME + SGSN + GGSN

SGW + PGW

Centralized bearer/distributed control (traditional 3G)

SGW + PGW + GGSN

MME + SGSN

Centralized control/distributed bearer

MME

PGW + SGW