3gpp slicing

Last updated on Dec 5, 2023

Network slicing is a key architectural concept in the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) 5G specifications. It enables the creation of multiple isolated virtual networks on top of a common physical infrastructure. Each network slice is tailored to specific service requirements, providing a flexible and efficient way to meet the diverse needs of different use cases. Here's a technical explanation of 3GPP network slicing:

Service-Based Architecture (SBA):
- Network slicing is closely tied to the service-based architecture (SBA) of the 5G core network (5GC). The SBA is designed to enable the exposure of network functions and capabilities, allowing for more flexible and dynamic service orchestration.
Network Slice:
- A network slice is a logical network that includes a set of network functions and resources. It is created based on specific service requirements, such as latency, bandwidth, reliability, and security.
Key Components:
- The main components involved in network slicing include:
  - Service Management Function (SMF): Manages the creation, modification, and deletion of network slices. It interacts with other network functions to allocate and configure resources for the slices.
  - Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF): Handles access and mobility management functions for devices within a network slice.
  - User Plane Function (UPF): Manages the user plane data forwarding within a network slice. It is responsible for routing data between the device and external networks.
  - Policy Control Function (PCF): Manages policy and quality of service (QoS) control for a network slice.
  - Session Management Function (SMF): Handles session-related functions within a network slice.
Slice Selection:
- When a device connects to the network, the network slice is selected based on the device's characteristics and the service requirements. The slice selection process ensures that the device gets the appropriate level of service for its intended use.
Isolation and Resource Allocation:
- Network slices are isolated from each other to prevent interference and ensure that the performance of one slice does not impact another. Resource allocation is dynamic, allowing slices to scale their resources based on demand.
Customization:
- Each network slice can be customized to meet the specific needs of different services or industries. For example, a network slice for augmented reality applications may prioritize low latency, while a slice for massive machine-type communication may prioritize connectivity for a large number of devices.
End-to-End Network Slicing:
- Network slicing extends beyond the core network to include the radio access network (RAN). End-to-end network slicing involves coordinating resources and functionalities across the entire network, from the core to the edge.
Network Slice Instances:
- Multiple instances of the same type of network slice can coexist, each serving different user groups or geographic areas. This allows for efficient use of resources and customization based on regional or user-specific requirements.
Management and Orchestration (MANO):
- Network slicing relies on management and orchestration mechanisms to automate the lifecycle management of slices. This includes slice instantiation, monitoring, scaling, and decommissioning.
Cross-Domain Orchestration:
- In addition to managing resources within the 5G network, network slicing can also be orchestrated across multiple domains, such as transport and cloud networks. This ensures end-to-end service delivery.
Interworking with Other Networks:
- Network slicing is designed to interwork with non-3GPP networks, allowing for seamless service continuity as devices move between different types of networks.

In summary, 3GPP network slicing is a powerful concept that enables the creation of customizable, isolated virtual networks within the 5G infrastructure. It plays a critical role in delivering diverse services with varying requirements and ensures efficient resource utilization across the network.