Sign in Subscribe

How does the 5G core network support service-based architecture?

Last updated on 


The 5G core network is designed to support a service-based architecture (SBA), which is a fundamental shift from the traditional monolithic architecture used in previous generations of mobile networks. In an SBA, network functions are modularized into independent services that communicate with each other via well-defined interfaces. This approach enhances flexibility, scalability, and agility in deploying and managing network services.

Here's a technical breakdown of how the 5G core network supports service-based architecture:

  1. Network Function Services (NFS): In an SBA, traditional network functions are decomposed into smaller, more specialized services known as Network Function Services (NFS). NFSs perform specific tasks or functions, such as authentication, session management, policy control, etc.
  2. Service-Based Interfaces (SBIs): These are standardized interfaces that enable communication and interaction between NFSs within the network. SBIs define how NFSs interact, allowing for seamless integration and interoperability between different network functions.
  3. Service-Based Architecture (SBA) Principles: The 5G core network is built upon the principles of SBA, emphasizing the following key aspects:
    • Decoupling of Functions: Each NFS operates independently and can be scaled, upgraded, or replaced without affecting other functions. This decoupling ensures flexibility and facilitates rapid innovation.
    • Standardized Interfaces: SBIs are standardized using protocols like HTTP/2, RESTful APIs, or other protocols defined by organizations like 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project). These interfaces ensure compatibility and interoperability between different network components from various vendors.
    • Dynamic Service Orchestration: SBA allows for dynamic service orchestration, enabling efficient resource allocation, load balancing, and service optimization based on real-time network conditions and user demands.
  4. Support for Network Slicing: Network slicing is a key feature of 5G enabled by SBA. It allows the creation of multiple virtual networks (slices) on a shared infrastructure, each tailored to specific use cases or applications. Slicing is implemented through the orchestration of NFSs and resources to meet the diverse requirements of different services, such as enhanced mobile broadband, ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC), and massive machine-type communications (mMTC).
  5. Cloud-Native Deployment: The 5G core network embraces cloud-native principles, utilizing containerization, microservices, and software-defined networking (SDN) technologies. This approach enhances scalability, resilience, and agility by enabling rapid deployment, elastic scaling, and efficient resource utilization.
  6. Security and Authentication: SBA incorporates robust security measures such as authentication and encryption mechanisms at various levels to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of network communication between NFSs.