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TNGF 5G - Trusted Non-3GPP Gateway Function

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The term "Trusted Non-3GPP Gateway Function" (TNGF) is a technical concept within the context of mobile communication networks, particularly in the realm of 5G (Fifth Generation) networks. To understand this concept, let's break down its components:

Trusted Non-3GPP Gateway Function (TNGF):

  1. Non-3GPP Networks:
    • Non-3GPP networks refer to networks that are not part of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) specifications. In the context of mobile communications, 3GPP is a collaboration between telecommunications standards organizations, defining standards for mobile networks, including GSM, LTE, and 5G.
  2. Gateway Function:
    • A gateway function is a network element that acts as an interface between different networks, facilitating communication and data exchange. In the context of 5G, gateways are responsible for managing the flow of data between the 5G network and other types of networks.
  3. Trusted:
    • The term "trusted" implies that the Non-3GPP Gateway Function is recognized and authorized by the 3GPP network as a legitimate and secure entity to handle specific interactions or services.

Technical Details:

In a 5G network, especially in scenarios where 5G needs to interwork with non-3GPP networks (such as Wi-Fi or fixed-line networks), the Trusted Non-3GPP Gateway Function comes into play. Here are some technical details:

  1. Interworking:
    • The TNGF facilitates the interworking between the 5G network and non-3GPP networks. This could involve scenarios where a device moves between a 5G network and a Wi-Fi network, and the TNGF helps manage the handover seamlessly.
  2. Authentication and Authorization:
    • The TNGF is responsible for ensuring that the non-3GPP network is authenticated and authorized to access certain 5G services or functionalities. This involves secure mechanisms to validate the legitimacy of the non-3GPP network.
  3. Policy Enforcement:
    • The TNGF enforces policies related to traffic management, quality of service (QoS), and security when it comes to interactions with non-3GPP networks. This ensures that the 5G network's policies are maintained even when communicating with external networks.
  4. Session Management:
    • It manages sessions between devices and non-3GPP networks. This includes the establishment, maintenance, and termination of sessions, maintaining a seamless experience for users.
  5. Security Considerations:
    • Security is a crucial aspect of the TNGF. It must implement measures such as encryption, authentication, and integrity protection to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data exchanged between the 5G network and non-3GPP networks.
  6. User Plane Functionality:
    • The TNGF may handle user plane functionalities, dealing with the actual data transmission between the device and the non-3GPP network.
  7. Mobility Support:
    • In scenarios involving mobility, the TNGF supports the handover of devices between 5G and non-3GPP networks while maintaining a continuous and reliable connection.

In summary, the Trusted Non-3GPP Gateway Function is a crucial element in 5G networks that enables secure and seamless communication between the 5G infrastructure and non-3GPP networks, extending the capabilities and coverage of 5G services.