5g core architecture 3gpp
The 5G Core (5GC) architecture, as defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), is a fundamental component of the 5G mobile network. It is designed to support a variety of services and applications, ranging from enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) to massive machine-type communications (mMTC) and ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC). Here is a technical explanation of the 5G Core architecture:
- Service-Based Architecture (SBA):
- The 5G Core architecture is based on a service-oriented and cloud-native design, known as Service-Based Architecture (SBA). This allows for more flexibility, scalability, and efficient deployment of network functions.
- Network Functions:
- The 5G Core consists of several key network functions, each responsible for specific tasks. Some of the major functions include:
- AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function): Manages access and mobility aspects for the user equipment (UE).
- SMF (Session Management Function): Handles session management and control plane functionality for user sessions.
- UPF (User Plane Function): Responsible for user data forwarding, packet inspection, and other user plane functions.
- UDM (Unified Data Management): Manages subscriber data and authentication.
- AUSF (Authentication Server Function): Handles authentication and key management functions.
- PCF (Policy Control Function): Enforces policies related to QoS (Quality of Service) and resource allocation.
- NSSF (Network Slice Selection Function): Selects appropriate network slices based on service requirements.
- NEF (Network Exposure Function): Allows authorized third-party applications to access certain network functions.
- The 5G Core consists of several key network functions, each responsible for specific tasks. Some of the major functions include:
- Control Plane and User Plane Separation (CUPS):
- One of the key features of the 5G Core is the separation of the control plane and user plane functions. This allows for better scalability, flexibility, and resource optimization. The SMF and UPF are examples of network functions that can be separated into control plane and user plane components.
- Network Slicing:
- 5G introduces the concept of network slicing, which allows the creation of virtualized and logically isolated network instances to meet the diverse requirements of different services and applications. Each network slice can be customized with its own set of resources and capabilities.
- Service-Based Interfaces:
- Communication between network functions in the 5G Core is based on service-based interfaces. These interfaces use protocols such as HTTP/2 for efficient communication, allowing for easier integration of new functions and services.
- User Equipment (UE):
- The user equipment (UE) refers to the mobile devices used by subscribers. The 5G Core architecture supports various types of UEs, including smartphones, IoT devices, and other connected devices.
- Authentication and Security:
- The 5G Core places a strong emphasis on security. Authentication and security functions are distributed across various network functions, such as the AUSF, UDM, and SEAF (Security Anchor Function).
- Integration with 4G (LTE):
- The 5G Core is designed to be backward compatible with 4G LTE networks, allowing for a smooth transition from existing technologies to 5G.
The 5G Core architecture is a sophisticated and flexible framework that enables the deployment of diverse services with different requirements, making it a crucial component in the evolution of mobile communication networks.