Introduction

The gatekeeper API is offered as a library that contains the API functions, which are designed to work with GKTMP. An external application must link with the GKAPI object code and call the API functions to communicate with the Cisco IOS Gatekeeper.

Gatekeeper Transaction Message Protocol (GKTMP) is a protocol that can be used to provide custom solutions external to the IOS Gatekeeper platform. It allows customers that use H.323 Gatekeepers to develop applications to meet their individual needs and this application can be used to transact with the gatekeeper. Sample applications include:

  • number translation like 800 service or Virtual Private Network (VPN)
  • time-based and/or cost-based routing
  • interface with applications that require subscriber profile and/or persistent database

Benefits

  • Runs on Solaris & Linux
  • Provides GKTMP encoding/decoding and socket handling library to GK for quick application development
  • A quick start for developers

Tech Details

Although the Cisco IOS Gatekeeper provides many functions, there may be the occasion when additional function is desired or needed. For example, an organization may require additional authentication functions, need to implement specific policy controls, or want to use Internet call waiting.

The Gatekeeper Transaction Message Protocol (GKTMP) and the Gatekeeper Application Programming Interface (GKAPI) were developed to allow communication between the Cisco IOS Gatekeeper and an external application.

GKTMP is based on RAS and provides a set of ASCII request/response messages that can be used to exchange information between the Cisco IOS Gatekeeper and the external application over a TCP connection and through the use of the GKAPI.

The GKAPI is object code that contains the GKAPI functions, which are designed to work with GKTMP. An external application links with the object code and calls the functions as necessary.

Using the GKTMP and the GKAPI, organizations can supplement the functions of the external application.

GKTMP API Architecture

Below is a diagram that illustrates the architecture implementation of GKTMP API