DRA (Diameter Route Agent) is a functional network element in a 3G or 4G network, which realizes the aggregation and distribution of Diameter signaling messages and provides the aggregation function of messages within the network, the function of the border gateway between networks, and the forwarding of special signaling. Features. It provides real-time routing capabilities to ensure that messages are routed among the correct network elements in the network. DRA was introduced by 3GPP to solve the increased Diameter signaling traffic and the complexity of 4G LTE networks.
Networks with complex architecture and multiple signaling nodes require advanced Diameter signaling context routing engines. Choosing a DRA capable of advanced context routing is critical to managing network complexity and utilizing all the services provided by 4G LTE.

DEA (Diameter Edge Agent), i.e. Diameter Border Agent, realizes the interconnection function of user roaming between operator networks and is a functional embodiment of DRA.

The DRA and DEA enable smooth Diameter signaling message flow between key components of the IMS convergence-based network architecture, i.e., interworking in service areas such as IMS, PCC and EPC.