Sign in Subscribe

ericsson network slicing

Last updated on 

Network slicing is a key concept in 5G networks, and Ericsson, as a major player in the telecommunications industry, has been actively involved in the development and implementation of network slicing technology. Let's delve into the technical details of Ericsson's approach to network slicing:

1. Definition of Network Slicing:

Network slicing involves creating multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure to meet the diverse requirements of various services and applications. Each slice is tailored to specific use cases, with its own unique characteristics, performance levels, and functionalities.

2. Ericsson's Network Slicing Architecture:

Ericsson's network slicing architecture is designed to provide flexibility and efficiency. It generally consists of the following components:

  • Radio Access Network (RAN):
    Ericsson's RAN is a crucial part of the network slicing framework. It is responsible for managing the wireless communication between devices and the network. The RAN is designed to support the isolation of different slices, ensuring that the characteristics of one slice do not affect others.
  • Core Network:
    The core network is where much of the intelligence and control of the network reside. Ericsson's core network is designed to be programmable and flexible, allowing the creation and management of network slices dynamically. This includes the use of technologies like Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) to enable efficient resource utilization.
  • Management and Orchestration (MANO):
    Ericsson's MANO system plays a crucial role in the orchestration and management of network slices. It involves the dynamic allocation of resources, configuration of network functions, and monitoring of slice performance. The MANO system ensures that the network slices are created, modified, and deleted in real-time based on the changing requirements of applications and services.

3. Key Technologies:

  • Software-Defined Networking (SDN):
    SDN allows for the centralized control and programming of the network. In the context of network slicing, SDN enables the dynamic allocation of resources to different slices based on their requirements.
  • Network Function Virtualization (NFV):
    NFV involves virtualizing network functions that traditionally ran on dedicated hardware. This virtualization allows for greater flexibility and scalability in deploying network functions, contributing to the dynamic nature of network slicing.
  • Service Level Agreements (SLAs):
    Ericsson's network slicing implementation includes the concept of SLAs, which define the performance characteristics and service quality for each network slice. These SLAs are enforced through the orchestration and management systems.

4. Use Cases:

  • eMBB (enhanced Mobile Broadband):
    One of the primary use cases for network slicing is to provide high-speed and high-bandwidth connections for applications such as video streaming and augmented reality.
  • URLLC (Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications):
    For applications requiring extremely low latency and high reliability, such as remote surgery or autonomous vehicles, network slicing can be configured to meet these stringent requirements.
  • mMTC (massive Machine Type Communications):
    Network slicing can also be tailored for scenarios with a massive number of connected devices, such as in the Internet of Things (IoT), by optimizing the network for efficient device communication.

5. Security and Isolation:

Ericsson's network slicing implementation includes robust security measures to ensure the isolation and protection of each network slice. This involves encryption, access control mechanisms, and monitoring for any anomalous behavior.

6. Dynamic Resource Allocation:

The dynamic nature of network slicing allows for the efficient allocation of resources based on demand. This includes spectrum resources in the case of the RAN and computing resources in the case of the core network.

7. Interoperability and Standards:

Ericsson's network slicing solutions are designed to be compliant with industry standards, ensuring interoperability with equipment and systems from other vendors. This is essential for the widespread adoption of 5G and network slicing across different networks.

8. Lifecycle Management:

Ericsson's network slicing solution includes mechanisms for the entire lifecycle management of network slices, including creation, modification, and deletion. This ensures that network resources are utilized efficiently and adapt to the changing requirements of services and applications.

Ericsson's approach to network slicing involves a comprehensive architecture that leverages technologies like SDN and NFV to create, manage, and optimize virtual networks tailored to specific use cases. The dynamic allocation of resources, adherence to standards, and robust security measures are key elements in ensuring the success of network slicing in 5G networks.