In one embodiment, a method for selecting a software interface based on operator policy comprises receiving from a mobile device a message requesting that a packet data session be allocated, wherein the message includes a requested quality of service profile for the packet data session, selecting a software interface, from among a plurality of software interfaces, for communication with a packet node based on the contents of the message, for the packet node to provide the mobile device with access to a packet data network, and allocating the packet data session in communication with the packet node, wherein the requested quality of service profile is conveyed to the packet node using the selected software interface.