Methods and apparatus for supporting multiple types of connections to a core network

Abstract

There is proposed a mechanism providing functions of a so-called hybrid home node B (HHNB) where subscribers, depending on their belonging to a specific subscriber group, such as a closed subscriber group or an open subscriber group, are admitted for a connection to the communication network via different connection routes and systems. After a request for connecting a subscriber is received, an identification process is performed whether the subscriber belongs to a first subscriber group (CSG) or to a second subscriber group (OSG). On the basis of this identification, the subscriber is assigned to a first connection route or a second connection route. It is then checked whether available resources on the assigned connection route are sufficient, wherein on the basis of this check the request for connecting is allowed or rejected.