The following case study demonstrates how PRA lists can be used with policies on a wireless network.
A wireless carrier, Example Inc., uses PRA lists to apply policies to user equipment within specific areas. Example Inc. implements PRA lists in three scenarios: managing QoS in busy areas, allowing location sensitive services, and managing QoS in residential areas.
To manage QoS in busy areas, Example Inc. uses the Core Network pre-defined PRA list CN1. Whenever any subscriber on the network enters an area included in CN1, the PCRF receives a notification and applies a policy that reduces QoS for that subscriber until the subscriber leaves the area included in CN1.
To allow location sensitive services, Example Inc. uses the UE-dedicated PRA list UE1 to manage a service that can only be used while roaming. UE1 establishes a home area for a subscriber or small group of subscribers. Whenever a subscriber whose home area is included in UE1 and who pays for the roaming service leaves the area included in UE1, the PCRF receives a notification and applies a policy that enables the roaming service. Whenever the subscriber enters the area included in UE1, the PCRF receives a notification and applies a policy that disables the roaming service.
To manage QoS in residential areas, Example Inc. uses the UE-dedicated PRA list UE2 to establish a home area for a subscriber. Whenever the subscriber enters the home area UE2, the PCRF receives a notification to increase QoS for that subscriber until the subscriber leaves the home area UE2.