Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2019-2029F

The Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market was valued at USD 1.23 Billion in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 2.40 Billion by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 11.59%. The Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) market refers to the global industry surrounding the SS7 telecommunications protocol, which is used for exchanging signaling information in telecommunication networks. SS7 enables efficient and reliable communication for setting up and managing phone calls, routing messages, and ensuring the secure transmission of data. It is integral to the operation of public switched telephone networks (PSTNs) and mobile networks, enabling features such as call setup, billing, text messaging, and roaming services.

The SS7 protocol is critical for both traditional circuit-switched networks and modern packet-switched IP networks, serving as the backbone for ensuring communication between network elements like switches, databases, and gateways. As telecom infrastructure continues to evolve, SS7 remains foundational to the performance of legacy networks and is a key enabler of interoperability across various carriers and service providers. The market for SS7 solutions includes hardware, software, and services that facilitate the deployment, management, and security of SS7 networks. With the rise of next-generation communication systems, including 5G, SS7 plays an important role in bridging legacy systems with newer technologies, supporting hybrid network environments, and ensuring seamless connectivity.

The SS7 protocol has faced security challenges over the years due to vulnerabilities that can be exploited for malicious purposes, such as eavesdropping or fraud. This has led to growing demand for advanced SS7 monitoring and security solutions, which help detect and prevent potential threats. The SS7 market is driven by the increasing need for efficient communication protocols, the expansion of mobile networks, the demand for secure and reliable voice and data services, and the modernization of network infrastructure. With the continued growth of mobile communication, internet of things (IoT) applications, and smart devices, SS7’s role in managing signaling and facilitating secure communication remains indispensable.

Additionally, emerging trends in network virtualization, cloud computing, and 5G technology are expected to influence the evolution of SS7, as telecom operators look to leverage the protocol’s capabilities in more dynamic, software-defined environments. Market players in the SS7 sector include telecom equipment vendors, network service providers, and software developers who offer solutions for SS7 signaling, monitoring, and security. As telecom operators continue to adapt to evolving demands, the SS7 market is expected to see ongoing developments, including innovations in security, efficiency, and integration with next-gen networking technologies. While SS7 faces challenges from the growth of IP-based networks and protocols like SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), its continued relevance in legacy systems and hybrid networks ensures a steady market presence, driven by the need for comprehensive signaling solutions in telecommunications.

Key Market Drivers

Increased Demand for Mobile Data Services and Communication Networks

The growing demand for mobile data services and the expansion of communication networks are key drivers for the Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) market. As mobile networks continue to evolve, with more users relying on mobile devices for internet access, video streaming, social media, and other data-intensive applications, the need for a robust signaling infrastructure becomes crucial. SS7 plays a vital role in the management and control of calls, texts, and data transmissions in mobile networks, ensuring seamless communication between various network elements.

With the increase in mobile data consumption, network providers require SS7 protocols to handle complex signaling tasks such as call setup, routing, handovers, and mobility management. Furthermore, the growing number of connected devices in the era of the Internet of Things (IoT) contributes to the demand for signaling systems capable of managing large volumes of traffic. SS7 remains essential for delivering reliable and efficient communication in both traditional telecommunications systems and next-generation networks. As mobile service providers expand their coverage, upgrade their infrastructure, and enhance service offerings to meet consumer demand, SS7 continues to be a foundational technology for ensuring secure, efficient, and scalable communications.

Network Infrastructure Upgrades and 5G Rollouts

The global rollouts of 5G networks and ongoing network infrastructure upgrades are driving the growth of the SS7 market. As telecommunications operators migrate to 5G, the underlying signaling systems must adapt to the increased data throughput and more complex communication requirements. While SS7 is primarily associated with legacy systems, it remains integral to the signaling infrastructure, supporting interconnectivity between different generations of networks, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G. SS7 provides essential signaling functions such as call control, SMS routing, and subscriber authentication, which are still required even in 5G environments.

As 5G networks are deployed globally, SS7 must be integrated with newer signaling systems to maintain compatibility and facilitate smooth operation across multi-generation networks. The transition to 5G also brings new demands for network slicing, edge computing, and enhanced security protocols, where SS7 plays a role in managing the communication flows and maintaining operational continuity. Additionally, SS7 supports emergency services and number portability, which are critical components for the success of 5G networks. The need for seamless migration and interoperability between existing SS7-based systems and new 5G infrastructures creates a sustained demand for SS7 solutions as telecom operators continue to modernize their networks.

Growing Cybersecurity Threats and SS7 Vulnerabilities

The increasing prevalence of cybersecurity threats is another significant driver for the SS7 market, particularly as vulnerabilities in SS7 have become a major concern. As cyberattacks on communication networks become more sophisticated, there is a growing need for enhanced security measures to protect SS7 signaling infrastructure. SS7, while being a critical protocol for communication, has been criticized for its security weaknesses, such as the susceptibility to interception, spoofing, and unauthorized access. These vulnerabilities have prompted telecom providers to implement advanced security solutions and invest in the protection of SS7 networks.

As a result, the SS7 market is experiencing growth in security-related products and services that aim to secure signaling traffic, detect anomalies, and prevent attacks such as SIM swapping and call interception. Moreover, the demand for more robust SS7 security measures is increasing as governments, financial institutions, and enterprises rely on secure communication channels for sensitive data transmission. As the industry faces escalating concerns over privacy and data breaches, the integration of secure SS7 solutions and the adoption of new security standards are becoming key focus areas. In response, vendors are developing SS7 protection technologies that offer end-to-end encryption, real-time monitoring, and advanced threat detection capabilities, ensuring the continued reliability and safety of SS7-based communication networks.

Key Market Challenges

Security Vulnerabilities and Threats

One of the primary challenges facing the Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) market is the increasing security vulnerabilities associated with its use. SS7, while a critical protocol for enabling communication across telecommunications networks, has long been criticized for its outdated security mechanisms. As mobile networks and internet technologies continue to evolve, SS7 has remained largely unchanged, making it a prime target for cyberattacks. Hackers have exploited these weaknesses to intercept calls, track users, conduct fraud, and even manipulate network traffic.

The lack of encryption in SS7 signaling allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, including users' personal data, location, and even call contents. Despite efforts to patch some of the vulnerabilities, the inherently insecure nature of SS7 remains a significant concern for telecommunications operators and service providers. As mobile operators migrate towards newer technologies like 5G, the risk associated with SS7 remains heightened, as many legacy systems continue to rely on this older signaling protocol. The challenge lies in modernizing SS7 security while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure.

This task becomes even more complex as operators aim to balance the need for security with the high cost and technical difficulties of upgrading their signaling systems. Furthermore, as SS7 remains integral to global roaming and inter-network communications, any disruption in its operation or a successful cyberattack could have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the service provider but also end-users across multiple regions. For the SS7 market to thrive, stakeholders must prioritize comprehensive security frameworks, implement robust monitoring systems, and accelerate the transition to more secure alternatives without disrupting the existing telecommunication ecosystem.

Transition to Next-Generation Networks

Another significant challenge in the SS7 market is the gradual transition to next-generation networks, such as 5G, which are pushing telecommunications operators away from reliance on legacy signaling systems. While SS7 has been the backbone of global telecommunication for decades, its continued use is increasingly being seen as incompatible with the capabilities and demands of newer, more advanced networks. 5G networks, which promise faster speeds, lower latency, and enhanced connectivity, require signaling protocols that can handle a much higher volume of data and provide a more scalable, flexible, and secure foundation.

SS7, with its age-old infrastructure and limitations, is ill-equipped to meet the demands of these next-gen networks, especially in handling IoT devices, massive machine-type communications, and ultra-reliable low-latency communications. As a result, telecommunications providers are faced with the challenge of transitioning from SS7 to more modern signaling protocols, such as Diameter and GTP (GPRS Tunneling Protocol), which are better suited for the performance needs of 5G. This transition is complicated by the need for backward compatibility, as many telecom systems still depend heavily on SS7 for legacy services, including voice calling, messaging, and roaming.

The ongoing coexistence of SS7 with newer technologies creates a fragmented environment where operators must manage and integrate multiple protocols. Additionally, the financial cost of upgrading infrastructure to support newer signaling systems can be prohibitive, especially for smaller operators or those in regions with limited resources. For the SS7 market, this shift represents a critical challenge: businesses must either invest in the modernization of SS7 systems to align with future technologies or completely phase out SS7 in favor of next-generation solutions. Moreover, as 5G becomes more widespread, the urgency to evolve from SS7 grows, and telecom providers face increasing pressure to innovate and adopt future-proof signaling systems that can support the demands of the digital era. The transition is complex and requires a careful balance of cost, compatibility, and forward-looking strategy.

Key Market Trends

Adoption of SS7 Vulnerability Management Solutions

The growing need for robust network security solutions is one of the key trends driving the Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) market. As telecommunications networks increasingly rely on SS7 for managing call routing, messaging, and billing, the vulnerabilities associated with this signaling protocol have become a major concern. Hackers have exploited these vulnerabilities to intercept sensitive data, manipulate call traffic, and even launch denial-of-service attacks. Consequently, there is a rising demand for SS7 vulnerability management solutions. These solutions focus on detecting, monitoring, and mitigating SS7 security threats in real time.

The trend is further fueled by the increasing prevalence of mobile devices, IoT connectivity, and the proliferation of 5G networks, which rely on SS7 for signaling between base stations and mobile devices. As telecommunications providers and service operators strive to secure their networks against potential attacks, investing in SS7 security monitoring tools and employing effective vulnerability management strategies has become critical.

The implementation of advanced cybersecurity solutions, such as real-time analytics, AI-powered threat detection, and secure SS7 gateways, is enabling telecom providers to safeguard the integrity of their networks while maintaining regulatory compliance. Additionally, industry standards and regulations such as the GSMA’s Security Assurance Framework (SAF) are encouraging the adoption of SS7 protection tools, further driving the growth of this segment. The need for effective SS7 security is also contributing to the development of more sophisticated signaling protocols, as providers move towards adopting alternatives that offer higher security levels while maintaining backward compatibility with SS7-based systems.

Integration of SS7 with Next-Generation Networks

The integration of SS7 with next-generation networks, particularly 5G, is emerging as a crucial trend in the market. While SS7 has long been the backbone of telecom networks, the introduction of 5G technology is pushing the need for more advanced and flexible signaling protocols. However, due to the vast global infrastructure still reliant on SS7, a significant portion of telecommunications systems needs to maintain compatibility with SS7 while transitioning to next-generation networks. This trend is prompting telecom operators to seek solutions that allow for the seamless integration of SS7 with 5G signaling, ensuring interoperability between older and newer network technologies.

By combining SS7 with 5G, telecom operators can support both legacy applications and modern services that require high-speed, low-latency communication. This integration involves the use of advanced signaling gateways and hybrid solutions that bridge the gap between SS7 and newer protocols like Diameter and SIP (Session Initiation Protocol). These hybrid systems enable operators to manage complex signaling traffic while transitioning to IP-based networks. Additionally, the integration facilitates smoother network migrations, minimizing disruptions to services and ensuring continuity during the 5G rollout.

As more IoT devices, autonomous vehicles, and other smart technologies become integrated into 5G networks, the demand for signaling systems that can support high-volume, real-time communication will continue to increase. The ability to adapt SS7 for future network needs is essential for telecom operators seeking to maximize the value of their existing infrastructure while embracing next-generation technologies. This trend will likely drive continued innovation in SS7 signaling solutions, as vendors develop new hybrid solutions that support both legacy SS7 networks and next-gen systems, optimizing the performance and scalability of telecom services.

Segmental Insights

Deployment Type Insights

The cloud segment held the largest Market share in 2023. The Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) market in the cloud segment is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for cloud-based communication solutions, scalability, and cost efficiency. SS7, a set of protocols used for telecommunications signaling, has traditionally been deployed in on-premise systems. However, with the rapid digital transformation and the shift toward cloud computing, telecommunications providers and enterprises are increasingly adopting cloud-based SS7 solutions to meet the demands of modern communication networks.

Cloud deployment offers enhanced flexibility, enabling companies to scale their signaling infrastructure according to changing traffic volumes and business needs. This shift is particularly crucial in the context of the growing adoption of 5G networks, which require advanced signaling solutions capable of handling high data rates and complex communication processes. The integration of SS7 with cloud platforms allows for seamless communication between legacy systems and next-generation technologies, such as 5G and IoT, facilitating smooth transitions and minimizing disruptions.

Cloud-based SS7 solutions provide significant operational cost savings by eliminating the need for costly hardware infrastructure, maintenance, and on-site support, making them a more attractive option for businesses looking to reduce capital expenditures and optimize operational efficiency. The cloud environment also offers improved reliability and availability, with built-in redundancy and disaster recovery capabilities, which are critical for ensuring uninterrupted service in mission-critical applications such as financial transactions, emergency services, and mobile communications.

The ability to manage and monitor SS7 traffic through centralized cloud platforms also provides enhanced security and real-time analytics, allowing telecom operators to detect and mitigate potential threats such as fraud or signaling attacks, which are common in SS7 networks. As the demand for global connectivity increases and as enterprises and telecom providers look for ways to future-proof their infrastructure, cloud-based SS7 solutions offer a scalable, cost-effective, and secure alternative to traditional on-premises deployments.

Furthermore, with the rise of hybrid cloud models, telecom operators can now seamlessly integrate cloud-based SS7 systems with existing on-premises infrastructure, creating a flexible and hybridized signaling environment that optimizes both legacy and modern technologies. The growing demand for mobile applications, video streaming services, and over-the-top (OTT) services is also driving the need for efficient signaling systems capable of handling large volumes of real-time data, making SS7 in the cloud an essential component for next-generation communication platforms. In summary, the market for SS7 in the cloud segment is fueled by the growing shift towards cloud adoption, the need for scalability and flexibility in telecommunications, the increasing complexity of networks with 5G and IoT, operational cost savings, and the desire for enhanced security and reliability in signaling systems.

Regional Insights

North America region held the largest market share in 2023. The Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) market in North America is driven by the increasing demand for reliable and secure communication networks, particularly within telecommunications and mobile infrastructure. As the region continues to witness significant advancements in 5G technology and IoT adoption, SS7 remains a crucial component for enabling seamless communication between telecom networks, ensuring uninterrupted call setup, routing, and billing functions.

The widespread adoption of mobile services, the growth of data consumption, and the need for high-quality, low-latency communication are contributing to the steady demand for SS7 in North America. Additionally, as enterprises and telecom providers strive to meet the growing expectations for enhanced security and operational reliability, SS7 plays a pivotal role in signaling for secure transmission of voice, video, and data services. SS7 also supports the growing need for real-time service delivery, including mobile payment systems, authentication, and fraud prevention, which are increasingly being adopted by organizations across various sectors, from banking to healthcare.

The North American market benefits from strong government regulations and industry standards that push for the maintenance and enhancement of secure communication systems, which further reinforces SS7’s importance. The rising focus on the modernization of legacy telecom networks to support next-generation services, including VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and 5G deployments, continues to fuel the demand for SS7-based signaling systems. As telecom operators aim to balance cost efficiency with advanced capabilities, SS7 remains integral to the smooth transition and integration of next-gen network architectures.

The growing emphasis on network resilience, seamless interoperability between different network generations, and increased integration of cloud-based solutions also provide growth opportunities for SS7 in the region. Furthermore, SS7 is pivotal in ensuring service continuity for legacy systems while facilitating the evolution of next-gen services, enabling telecom operators to maintain robust communication networks that meet both current and future demands. As North America continues to lead in technological innovations, the role of SS7 in enabling reliable, secure, and scalable communication networks remains crucial for the region's telecommunication and IoT infrastructure, thus driving the SS7 market forward.

Key Market Players

• Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
• Cisco Systems, Inc.
• Nokia Corporation
• Juniper Networks, Inc.
• Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
• Ribbon Communications Inc.
• Mavenir Systems, Inc.
• Oracle Corporation

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market, By Deployment Type:

• On-premises
• Cloud
• Hosted

Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market, By Protocol Support:

• SS7 ISUP
• SS7 TCAP
• SS7 SCCP
• SS7 MTP

Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market, By End-User Industry:

• Telecommunications
• Banking & Finance
• Transportation
• Healthcare
• Government

Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market, By Application:

• Network Interconnection
• Signaling & Routing
• Voice over IP (VoIP)
• Fraud Management
• Roaming Services

Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Turkey

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Signaling System Number Seven (SS7) Market.

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With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

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