A network system includes a network node that receives data session start and stop requests from mobile devices, a service controller node, and a data rating element. The service controller node is notified by the network node when a mobile device makes a start request. The service controller enters an authentication time period during which the mobile device can authenticate. Upon successful authentication, the service controller sets the data rating element to operate based on data traffic characterization from the mobile device. For mobile devices that do not authenticate, the data rating element operates without cooperation from the mobile device.