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How does the 5G Core network handle network slicing mobility and handover?

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The 5G Core network is designed to support network slicing, which allows the creation of multiple virtual networks on a common physical infrastructure. This enables the customization of network services for different use cases with varying requirements, such as enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). Mobility and handover are essential aspects of a mobile network, ensuring seamless communication as users move between different locations.

  1. Network Slicing:
    • Virtualization: Network slicing is achieved through virtualization technologies such as Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN). NFV allows network functions to run as software on general-purpose hardware, while SDN enables dynamic network configuration and management.
    • Service Differentiation: Each network slice is a dedicated and isolated logical network that can be customized to meet specific requirements. Slices are created based on the characteristics and needs of the services or applications, allowing for the efficient use of network resources.
  2. Mobility Management in 5G Core:
    • Session Management: In 5G, the Session Management Function (SMF) is responsible for managing user sessions. It handles user authentication, mobility, and IP address allocation.
    • User Plane Function (UPF): The UPF is responsible for the user data plane and manages data traffic forwarding. It plays a crucial role in ensuring seamless mobility by handling the routing of data packets as users move across different locations.
    • AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function): The AMF manages mobility-related procedures such as registration, handovers, and tracking area updates.
    • Location Management: 5G uses a more flexible location management approach, allowing for improved tracking and management of user equipment (UE) movements within the network.
  3. Handover in 5G Core:
    • NG-RAN (Next-Generation Radio Access Network): Handovers involve the transfer of a user's connection from one cell to another. NG-RAN, which includes gNodeB (gNB), manages the radio access part of the handover process.
    • Xn Interface: The Xn interface facilitates communication and coordination between gNBs for inter-gNB handovers. It ensures that the target gNB is aware of the ongoing handover and can prepare to take over the user's connection seamlessly.
    • AMF Handover Management: The AMF is responsible for managing handover procedures, coordinating with the source and target gNBs to ensure a smooth transition. It is also involved in updating the user's location information.
    • Path Switching in UPF: During a handover, the UPF may need to switch the data path to the new gNB, ensuring continuous data transmission without interruption.