How does the 5G Core network handle network slicing resource management?

Network slicing is a key feature of 5G that allows the creation of multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure. Each network slice is designed to meet specific requirements of different use cases, such as enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communication (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). The 5G Core (5GC) network plays a crucial role in managing these network slices and their associated resources.

Here is a technical explanation of how the 5G Core network handles network slicing resource management:

1. Service-Based Architecture (SBA):
   • The 5G Core network is based on a service-based architecture, which means that network functions communicate with each other using well-defined services and interfaces.
   • Network slicing management functions are implemented as part of the Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) and Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF).
2. Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF):
   • The NSSF is responsible for selecting the appropriate network slice instance for a specific user or service request.
   • It takes into account various factors such as user requirements, network conditions, and available resources.
3. Service Management and Orchestration (SMO):
   • SMO is responsible for managing and orchestrating the lifecycle of network slices.
   • It interacts with the NSSF to determine the appropriate slice and with other network functions to allocate and deallocate resources.
4. Network Exposure Function (NEF):
   • The NEF provides a unified API exposure to allow external applications and services to request and manage network resources dynamically.
   • It enables third-party applications to interact with the 5G Core for network slicing resource management.
5. Policy Control Function (PCF):
   • The PCF is responsible for enforcing policies related to user access, quality of service (QoS), and resource allocation.
   • It plays a crucial role in ensuring that network slices meet their defined requirements.
6. Session Management:
   • Network slices are associated with user sessions, and the Session Management Function (SMF) is responsible for managing these sessions.
   • SMF interacts with the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) to set up and release connections based on the user's location and mobility.
7. Resource Management:
   • The 5G Core employs a combination of policy enforcement, network functions, and orchestration to manage resources effectively.
   • This includes allocating radio resources, core network resources, and transport resources based on the requirements of the specific network slice.
8. Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN):
   • NFV and SDN technologies play a crucial role in the flexible allocation and management of network resources.
   • Virtualized network functions (VNFs) can be dynamically instantiated, scaled, and decommissioned to adapt to changing network slice demands.
9. Dynamic Resource Allocation:
   • The 5G Core enables dynamic resource allocation, allowing resources to be adjusted in real-time based on the changing needs of network slices and user services.