5G • Core Network
TEID
Tunnel Endpoint Identifier
32-bit identifier in GTP-U header uniquely routing multiplexed data tunnels to the correct bearer context.
Technical Explanation
The TEID is assigned by the receiving GTP-U endpoint (e.g. gNodeB or UPF) and communicated to the transmitting node via control plane signaling (NGAP or PFCP). When packets arrive over UDP port 2152, the receiver uses the 32-bit TEID to instantly de-multiplex the packet to its specific PDU session and QoS flow.
Key Functions
- 32-bit integer distinguishing individual user sessions within GTP-U tunnels
- Allocated by the receiving network node and signaled via NGAP/PFCP
- Enables multiplexing of thousands of concurrent user streams over port 2152
Specifications
3GPP TS 29.281, TS 38.413
Interfaces
N3N9
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