Key 5G Core Functions Powering Next-Gen Connectivity

Compared to 4G technology, which primarily hinged on hardware-focused systems, 5G core is reliant on cloud and software solutions. The entire networks are virtualized and established online, giving users much more flexibility in daily operations. 

Furthermore, the fact that all the technology is now stored online means that businesses can introduce 5G into their workflow much faster. It is a modern plug-and-play solution that relies on SBA (Service–Based Architecture). Through the use of SBA, you’re able to split network functions into modular services. Each one of these services can be scaled and modified independently to fulfil your particular business needs.

As one of the most revolutionary services, network slicing represents a function that allows you to partition a network into numerous virtual networks. Each one of the slices can be configured and used for a specific purpose. 

Today, private and public organizations use a 5G core solution to power up smart cities, drive autonomous vehicles, and automate their manufacturing. Let’s take a look at the main 5G core functions. After that, we’ll go through some of the common use cases for these mobile networks. 

Key 5G Core Functions

Unlike the past iterations of mobile networks, 5G core is much more agile. It also overshadows past generations in terms of performance. Here are the main features of 5G networks:

• AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function

The main benefit of using AMF is that you can support NAS ciphering, termination of NAS signaling, connection management, registration management, just to mention a few. 

• UPF (User Plane Function)

With UPF, the network is able to perform QoS handling, packet inspections, packet routing, and packet forwarding. UPF stands as an independent PDU session point. It is vital for connecting DNs (Data Networks). It serves as the focal point of RAT mobility. 

• SMF (Session Management Function)

SMF has a very versatile role within a network. It is a crucial function that allows UE IP address management and allocation, session modification, session establishment, and session release. It works for the termination of NAS signaling and provides a DHCP function. 

Among other things, the Session Management Function allows DL data notification and complex traffic steering configuration. It is an integral tool for traffic routing. 

• UDM (Unified Data Management) 

As one of the core main functions, UDM is integral for AKA credentials (Authentication and Key Agreement). It allows the network to identify users and provides authorization when needed. Unified Data Management handles various data and subscriptions.

• PCF (Policy Control Function)

The main benefit of PCF comes in the form of a unified framework. PCF introduces policy rules to the CP function. The feature is vital for gathering subscription information that is later used in UDR. 

• NEF (Network Exposure Function)

With this function, the 5G core is able to gather data from external apps. The system uses it for event and capability exposure as well as translation of various information, whether it’s coming from internal or external sources.

• AUSF (Authentication Server Function)

As the name implies, the Authentication Server Function is crucial for server authentication. 

• AF (Application Function)

This function is mainly used for routing purposes. AF is able to access NEF and perform policy control by tapping into the existing policy framework. 

• NSSF (Network Slice Selection Function)

Selecting network slices is a common task of the 5G core network. By using NSSF, 5G is able to establish an allowed NSSAI and select the AMF that will be used for UE.

• NRF (Network Repository Function)

Network Repository Function determines available NF instances, maintains the network function profile, and supports service discovery. 

5G Core Network Use Cases

The introduction of 5G core goes hand in hand with technological advancement. By relying on these advanced networks, we’re able to connect thousands of devices in a small geographic area. Furthermore, 5G technology is vital for the Internet of Things.

Industrial Automation

For modern manufacturing robots and systems to work, they must rely on networks with minimal latency. Automation relies on real-time data transfers to issue orders and monitor the situation in the field. Even the smallest hiccups can stall production, costing businesses thousands of dollars.

With fast internet, you no longer need engineers on the manufacturing floor. All actions can be performed from a faraway location, which not only reduces expenses but also increases safety. 5G is a difference-maker for predictive maintenance, continuously monitoring the state of your equipment so it can be repaired in due time. 

Smart Cities and IoT

Nowadays, most new neighbourhoods are based on smart technology. Urban innovation allows for better monitoring, communication, and traffic. With the Internet of Things, people living in these neighborhoods can utilize waste management systems, traffic sensors, and smart grids.

5G core is perfect for facilitating these systems as it relays data in real-time to smart city equipment and systems. It ensures instantaneous data exchange between vehicles, traffic lights, and public safety systems. The best thing yet is that 5G is highly scalable, so the network can expand beyond its original neighbourhood. 

Healthcare 

Healthcare is another industry that benefits from low-latency 5G connections. In the last few years, we’ve seen how powerful telemedicine can be. Through indirect contact with patients, doctors can serve a much bigger number of people during the day. 

But the enhanced video calls aren’t the only positive here. 5G is especially beneficial for wearable health devices, giving patients updates in real time. Similarly, this type of telecommunication technology allows clinical staff to use all sorts of sophisticated, precise equipment that relies on uninterrupted connectivity. 

Last Thoughts 

Most people think that 5G serves nothing more than fast internet browsing. However, you should be surprised by the versatility of potential applications.

Mobile technology is invaluable for autonomous cars, allowing people to get from one place to another without ever driving. 5G core is already widely used in the manufacturing industry, as it allows seamless work of robots. 

The 5G networks’ independence on physical infrastructure makes it that much more potent, given that businesses no longer have to spend lots of money to establish their private networks.