dEPC (distributed EPC)

The Evolved Packet Core (EPC) is a critical component of the Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network architecture, responsible for providing end-to-end packet switching and session management for data services in the LTE network. It consists of several functional entities, including the Mobility Management Entity (MME), the Serving Gateway (SGW), the Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW), and the Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF).

Traditionally, the EPC has been deployed as a centralized architecture, where all functional entities are deployed in a single location, known as the EPC node. However, as the demand for LTE services continues to grow, traditional EPC architectures face several challenges in terms of scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. To address these challenges, a new EPC architecture called Distributed EPC (dEPC) has been proposed.

dEPC is an architectural concept that distributes the EPC functions across multiple locations, allowing for greater flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. It involves deploying EPC functional entities closer to the end-user, typically at the edge of the network, rather than in a centralized location. This allows for better management of network traffic and reduces the need for costly backhaul links between the core network and the edge.

dEPC architecture can be deployed in two different ways: horizontal deployment and vertical deployment.

Horizontal Deployment: In a horizontal deployment, the EPC functional entities are distributed across multiple locations, typically in the same geographical region. This allows for better load balancing and reduces the impact of network congestion on the end-user experience. The MME, SGW, and PGW functions can be deployed in different locations, depending on the network topology and the service requirements.

Vertical Deployment: In a vertical deployment, the EPC functional entities are distributed across multiple layers, with each layer providing a specific set of services. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of service deployment and management. The functional entities can be deployed in different layers, depending on the service requirements and network topology. For example, the MME function can be deployed in a separate layer to manage mobility, while the SGW and PGW functions can be deployed in another layer to manage traffic and provide connectivity to the internet.

One of the key advantages of dEPC is its ability to support Network Slicing. Network Slicing is a technique that allows for the creation of virtual networks within a single physical network infrastructure. Each virtual network, known as a slice, can be customized to meet the specific service requirements of different user groups or applications. dEPC architecture allows for the creation of multiple slices, with each slice having its own set of EPC functional entities. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of service deployment and management, and can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with deploying new services.

Another advantage of dEPC is its ability to support edge computing. Edge computing is a technique that allows for the processing and storage of data at the edge of the network, closer to the end-user. This can significantly reduce the latency associated with data transfer and improve the overall quality of service. dEPC architecture allows for the deployment of EPC functional entities at the edge of the network, making it easier to support edge computing and other emerging technologies.

dEPC architecture also offers several benefits in terms of cost-effectiveness. By distributing the EPC functions across multiple locations, dEPC reduces the need for costly backhaul links between the core network and the edge. This can significantly reduce the cost of deploying and maintaining the network infrastructure. Additionally, dEPC architecture allows for greater flexibility in terms of service deployment and management, which can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with deploying new services.

In conclusion, dEPC is a new EPC architecture that offers several advantages over traditional centralized EPC architectures. By distributing the EPC functions across multiple locations, dEPC allows for greater flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. It also supports Network Slicing and edge computing, making it easier to deploy and manage new services and technologies. However, dEPC also poses several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its successful deployment and operation.

One of the main challenges of dEPC is ensuring the coordination and synchronization of EPC functional entities across different locations. This requires the development of new protocols and technologies to ensure seamless communication and coordination between the different functional entities. Additionally, dEPC also requires the deployment of additional hardware and software at the edge of the network, which can increase the complexity of the network infrastructure and pose additional security risks.