Sign in Subscribe

Describe the functions of the Application Function Part (AFP) in the 5G Core network.

Last updated on 

In the 5G Core network architecture, some of the key components include:

  1. User Plane Function (UPF): The UPF is responsible for handling user data forwarding and packet inspection. It plays a crucial role in managing data traffic efficiently, enabling features like Quality of Service (QoS), and supporting various user plane functions.
  2. Session Management Function (SMF): The SMF is responsible for managing session-related information, including session establishment, modification, and termination. It handles mobility, connection setup, and other session-related functionalities.
  3. Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF): The AMF is responsible for managing access and mobility-related functions. It handles user authentication, security, and mobility procedures such as handovers between different cells or network slices.
  4. Authentication Server Function (AUSF): The AUSF is responsible for authentication and key generation. It verifies the user's identity and credentials during the registration process and generates security keys for secure communication.
  5. Network Exposure Function (NEF): The NEF provides a standardized interface for external applications and services to access 5G network functions. It facilitates the exposure of network capabilities and data to authorized third-party applications.
  6. Policy Control Function (PCF): The PCF manages policies related to quality of service, charging, and resource allocation. It ensures that the network resources are used efficiently and according to the defined policies.
  7. Unified Data Management (UDM): The UDM manages subscriber data, including subscription profiles, authentication data, and session-related information. It plays a crucial role in user identity management and authorization.
  8. Application Function (AF): The AF enables the deployment of network services and applications. It communicates with other network functions to provide specific services and functionalities to end-users.