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5G SA/NSA certification

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  1. Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G:
    • NSA refers to an initial deployment mode where 5G networks are built on top of existing 4G LTE infrastructure. In NSA mode, the 5G network depends on the 4G infrastructure for some functionalities, such as signaling and control.
    • NSA certification involves testing and validating the interoperability and compliance of devices (smartphones, IoT devices, etc.) that use NSA 5G. It includes ensuring these devices can seamlessly transition between 4G LTE and 5G networks and utilize the added capabilities of 5G, like enhanced speed and capacity.
    • Certification authorities and organizations conduct rigorous testing to ensure that devices comply with standards set by 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), the organization responsible for defining the specifications for 5G technology.
  2. Standalone (SA) 5G:
    • SA 5G networks operate independently of existing 4G infrastructure. They don't rely on the 4G core network for any functionalities, offering a more comprehensive and efficient use of 5G capabilities.
    • SA 5G certification involves ensuring devices are compatible and can effectively communicate with the entirely new 5G core network. It also involves testing the functionalities unique to SA 5G, like network slicing (dividing the network into multiple virtual networks) and ultra-low latency services.
    • Certification for SA 5G involves more stringent testing as it requires compliance with a wider range of 5G specifications and functionalities.

Certification processes involve various steps:

  1. Interoperability Testing: Ensuring devices from different manufacturers can work together within the 5G network ecosystem without issues.
  2. Compliance Testing: Ensuring devices adhere to 3GPP standards and specifications for 5G technology, including NSA and SA requirements.
  3. Protocol Testing: Checking that devices communicate effectively using the defined protocols for both data and control signaling in 5G networks.
  4. Performance Testing: Evaluating the device's performance in various scenarios, such as speed, latency, and reliability, to ensure it meets the expected 5G capabilities.