LTE Handover (X2 and S1)

Moving Between Cells Without Dropping

Handover is the process that transfers an active UE connection from a source eNodeB to a target eNodeB as the subscriber moves through the network. LTE supports two handover types designed for different scenarios. X2 handover uses the direct interface between neighboring eNodeBs, making it the faster and preferred method. S1 handover routes signaling through the MME and is used when no X2 connection exists between the involved eNodeBs or when the handover crosses MME boundaries.