Sign in Subscribe

5g supi

Last updated on 

The 5G Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) is a crucial element in the 5G network architecture that uniquely identifies a subscriber. SUPI is used to distinguish and authenticate subscribers in the 5G system. Let's break down the technical details of the 5G SUPI:

  1. Structure:
    • The SUPI is composed of two main parts:
      • Home Network Identifier (HNI): Identifies the home network of the subscriber.
      • Subscription Concealed Identifier (SUCI): Concealed part of the identifier that includes the temporary identifier used for security and privacy.
  2. HNI (Home Network Identifier):
    • The HNI is a part of the SUPI that identifies the home network of the subscriber. It is allocated by the GSMA (GSM Association) and is used to route signaling messages to the subscriber's home network.
  3. SUCI (Subscription Concealed Identifier):
    • The SUCI is the concealed part of the SUPI and is used for security and privacy reasons. It consists of the following components:
      • Home Network Public Key Identifier (HPLMN-Id): Identifies the public key of the subscriber's home network. It is used for encrypting the SUCI.
      • AMF (Authentication Management Field): Identifies the Authentication Management Field. The AMF is used for authentication purposes.
      • Random Value (RAND): A random value generated by the network and used in the authentication process.
      • Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI): A temporary identifier used for subscriber privacy.
  4. Generation and Use:
    • The SUPI is generated by the subscriber's home network and is used for various purposes, including initial registration, handovers, and security procedures.
    • During the initial registration process, the home network generates the SUPI and sends it securely to the user equipment (UE).
    • The UE uses the SUPI for communication with the 5G network, ensuring that the network can identify and authenticate the subscriber.
  5. Security:
    • The use of a concealed part (SUCI) in the SUPI is designed to enhance security and privacy for the subscriber.
    • The SUCI is encrypted using the public key of the home network, making it challenging for unauthorized entities to decipher the subscriber's identity.
  6. Changes from Previous Generations:
    • Compared to previous generations of mobile networks, 5G introduces a more flexible and dynamic identifier structure with the SUPI. This enhances security and privacy features in the evolving landscape of mobile communications.

The 5G SUPI is a unique identifier that consists of a Home Network Identifier (HNI) and a concealed Subscription Concealed Identifier (SUCI). The SUCI includes elements such as the Home Network Public Key Identifier, Authentication Management Field, Random Value, and Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity, contributing to the security and privacy of subscribers in the 5G network.