The introduction of 5G tech has sent shockwaves throughout the telecommunication industry. Given the features and capabilities of these networks, 5G has a chance of becoming the base standard within the sector. With its safety, coverage, speed, and connectivity, it is a tech all providers should strive to implement.
The best thing about 5G networks is that they help connect people with businesses on a massive level. This makes it vital for the new generation of apps, which are heavily data-reliant. These new programs also require steady connection, as most of them work in real-time.
In this article, we’ll take a look at service-based architecture, or simply SBA, within 5G networks. We’ll also explain what makes 5G tech stand out from its predecessors.
The New 5G SBA Architecture
The thing you need to know about MCN or Mobile Communication Network, is that it consists of two main elements: CN (Core Network) and RAN (Radio Access Network).
Radio access networks rely on a combination of access points, transceivers, and base stations, all of which provide users with wireless access. On the other hand, we use a core network for macro mobility services.
A mobile communication network represents a system where numerous users are trying to access the service at the same time. By relying on UP (User Plane) and CP (Control Plane), the network is able to determine relationships between users in real-time.
Control Plane has features such as call/session setup, call termination, and maintenance, all of which ensure a certain level of quality. User Plane is vital for basic data transfer between users.
Challenges Related to 4G
5G represents a natural network progression and an advanced technology compared to its predecessor. It builds upon a 4G basis in many ways, allowing us to utilize modern IoT devices. Unlike 4G, 5G is now able to handle large quantities of data, as well as numerous devices connecting to the network at the same time.
Experts predict that future networks will involve even more machines, each connecting via small sensors. As a result, we'll need to build an architecture that will allow the handling of techs such as industrial IoT, driverless cars, and other automation software and machines. Future networks will have to be super reliable while boasting extremely low latency as a way of facilitating all these devices.
What Separates 5G From Previous Generations?
Unlike the past mobile generation, 5G has the following features and capabilities:
- Distinguishes between User Planes and Control Planes.
- Provides full support for distributed and centralized processing.
- Focus on software when tackling IT and network needs (VNF based on Network NFV principles).
- Use of MEC of process and delivery of low latency data and content.
- Network slice methodology when using resources from physical networks.
- Maximized the potential of advanced analytics.
- It gives reliable cellular connection to devices while supporting high density.
- Use of Service Bus and APIs (Application Programming Interface) for network capability exposure.
Understanding 5G SBA
Engineers transformed 5G CN networks by relying on cloud-native and modular methodology. The previous CN architecture turns into SBA, or Service-Based Architecture, which is vital for modern services. In other words, by relying on this setup, providers are able to ensure more flexibility for end users.
The process of evolution from 4G to 5G occurred in two distinct phases:
- First, we made sure the User Plane and Control Plane are different entities.
- Then, engineers altered the basic 4G EPC CUPS functionality into separate services.
The core network is redone on the user, control, and transport plane. The CP signaling within the core network does not rely on Service-Based Architecture design. This changed how the network interacts with external devices, giving it more flexibility when handling web-based tech.
When you have an architecture that focuses on services, you’re able to improve product modularity within the software field. Here, all services hinge on communication protocol over a network. With it, you’re able to split unique products into communication services.
The implementation of SBA into the 5G network will provide numerous perks. It will make it easier to use IoT devices and execute various processes within the public safety and healthcare field. All of this is made possible with modern technology, such as the network repository function.
The network elements within 5G rely on NFs. These functions communicate with each other through SBI or a service-based interface. Through NFs, we're able to maximize the potential of the user plane and control plane. SBA wouldn't be effective without network slicing, which makes it easier to address the requirements of each user app.
Advantages of Using 5G SBA
Our main focus is to improve network capabilities so they provide a basis for modern apps and devices. As such, we had to implement numerous solutions that would make 5G what it is today:
- In service-based architecture, network functions are exposed to REST APIs. They're also made by following the HTTP2.0 protocol. For NFs to work as intended and share data, they need to use the subscribe/notify or requires/response model. This gives SBA more flexibility in using different services. The tech is especially vital for providers who are looking to hasten their time-to-market when rolling out company products.
- Through dynamic programmability and NFs modularity, we're able to introduce the network slicing concept. Splitting the network into separate entities, known as compartments, allows users to maximize the potential of several services at the same time.
- Containers can be deployed in the form of cloud-native and modular solutions. Not only does this improve service delivery, but it also increases user satisfaction while promoting innovation.
- 5G allows you to incorporate various apps as the core network supports plug-and-play solutions.
Last Thoughts
The current 5G architecture represents a quantum leap compared to what we saw with 4G networks. It is a great technological advancement that gives providers much more flexibility. It is especially valuable for IoT devices but will also serve as a basis for all modern, demanding technology.
While the current 5G technology will likely be eclipsed soon enough, it serves as a vital standard at this moment.
