How does the 5G Core network enable network slicing for different vertical industries?

Network slicing is a key concept in 5G technology that allows the creation of multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure. These virtual networks, known as slices, are customized to meet the specific requirements of different use cases and vertical industries. The 5G Core network plays a crucial role in enabling network slicing by providing the necessary architecture and functionality. Let's explore the technical details of how the 5G Core network achieves this:

1. Service-Based Architecture (SBA):
   • The 5G Core network is designed based on a Service-Based Architecture (SBA). This architecture is modular and relies on a set of loosely coupled services that communicate via well-defined interfaces.
   • SBA allows for the deployment of network functions as services, making it easier to create, modify, and scale services independently.
2. Network Function Virtualization (NFV):
   • Network functions in the 5G Core are implemented as software-based entities, known as Virtual Network Functions (VNFs).
   • NFV allows for flexible and dynamic deployment of network functions, facilitating the creation of slices with different combinations of functions tailored to specific industry needs.
3. Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF):
   • The NSSF is responsible for selecting the appropriate network slice instance for a given service based on the service requirements, user context, and operator policies.
   • It considers factors such as latency, bandwidth, reliability, and other specific parameters to ensure that the chosen slice meets the demands of the vertical industry.
4. Network Slice Instance (NSI):
   • A Network Slice Instance represents a specific instantiation of a network slice tailored for a particular use case or vertical industry.
   • Each NSI consists of a combination of virtualized network functions and resources allocated from the underlying physical infrastructure.
5. Network Exposure Function (NEF):
   • The NEF enables authorized third-party applications to request and subscribe to specific network slices, services, or capabilities. This allows external applications to dynamically adapt to changing requirements or user demands.
6. Policy Control Function (PCF):
   • The PCF is responsible for managing policies related to network resource allocation, quality of service (QoS), and other parameters.
   • Policies are crucial in ensuring that each network slice adheres to the specified service level agreements and meets the performance expectations of the vertical industry it serves.
7. User Plane Function (UPF):
   • The UPF handles the data plane processing, including packet forwarding, routing, and traffic management.
   • It ensures that the user data within a network slice is processed efficiently according to the requirements of the specific use case.
8. Security and Isolation:
   • Network slicing is designed with strong isolation mechanisms to ensure the security and privacy of each slice.
   • Security functions, such as encryption and authentication, are integral parts of the 5G Core network to protect data and communication within each slice.