Sign in Subscribe

5g network slicing call flow

Last updated on 

Network slicing in 5G is a concept that allows the creation of multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure. Each slice is a logically isolated network tailored to specific requirements, such as low latency, high bandwidth, or massive IoT connectivity. In a 5G network slicing call flow, various steps take place to establish communication between the devices involved. Below is a technical explanation of the key elements and steps involved in a 5G network slicing call flow:

  1. UE (User Equipment) Attachment to the 5G Network:
    • The process begins with the user equipment (e.g., a smartphone or IoT device) attaching to the 5G network.
    • The UE initiates a connection request by sending a Registration Request (RR) to the 5G Core (5GC).
  2. Access Authentication and Security Setup:
    • The 5GC performs access authentication and authorization for the UE.
    • A secure connection (e.g., using the NAS - Non-Access Stratum - security procedures) is established between the UE and the 5GC.
  3. Network Slice Selection:
    • The UE or the network determines the required network slice based on the specific service requirements.
    • The network slice selection may consider factors such as latency, bandwidth, and reliability.
  4. UE Context Establishment:
    • Once the network slice is selected, the 5GC establishes a UE context, which includes information about the UE, the network slice it belongs to, and the QoS (Quality of Service) parameters associated with the slice.
  5. Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection Setup:
    • The 5GC initiates the setup of the RRC connection with the radio access network (RAN).
    • This involves the allocation of radio resources and the configuration of parameters such as modulation and coding schemes.
  6. Data Session Establishment:
    • The 5GC establishes a data session with the UE. This involves the setup of the user plane for transporting user data between the UE and the 5GC.
  7. Slice-specific Configuration:
    • The 5GC configures the network elements involved in the specific network slice, including the core network functions, transport network, and edge computing resources.
  8. Data Transfer:
    • Data transfer takes place over the established connection, adhering to the QoS parameters and requirements of the selected network slice.
  9. Dynamic Resource Allocation and Optimization:
    • Throughout the communication session, the 5G network continuously monitors the performance of the network slice and dynamically allocates resources to optimize the QoS parameters.
  10. Session Release:
    • When the communication session is complete or the UE detaches from the network, the network releases the allocated resources and terminates the session.

It's important to note that the specifics of the call flow can vary based on the network architecture, deployment scenario, and the particular standards implemented by the network operator. The above steps provide a generalized overview of the key elements involved in a 5G network slicing call flow.