5G Core

- Overview

The 5G core network (5GC) is the central, cloud-native component of a 5G system that provides connectivity, handles data traffic, and manages network functions like authentication, policy, and mobility. 

It's a fundamental shift from 4G, using a service-based architecture (SBA) to enable advanced 5G capabilities such as network slicing, reduced latency, and high throughput for use cases like enhanced mobile broadband, massive IoT, and ultra-reliable low-latency communications. 

A. Key functions and features of the 5G core: 

1. Service-based architecture (SBA): The 5G core uses a modular, cloud-native SBA that allows functions to be built as individual software services, making the network more agile, scalable, and flexible.
2. Network slicing: This feature allows operators to create multiple virtual networks on a single physical infrastructure, each customized with specific performance characteristics for different applications (e.g., a high-bandwidth slice for video streaming and a low-latency slice for industrial automation).
3. Separation of control and data planes: By separating these planes, the network can allocate resources dynamically and efficiently, supporting new features like network slicing.
4. Cloud-native foundation: The entire 5G core is built as cloud-native software, enabling it to run on various cloud infrastructures and supporting automation for faster deployment and more resilient operations. 

5. Core network functions: The core is responsible for crucial tasks like:

• Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF): Manages registration, connection, and user mobility.
• User Plane Function (UPF): Handles user data traffic.
• Session Management Function (SMF): Manages user sessions.
• Authentication and authorization: Verifies user identity and permissions.
• Subscriber data management: Manages subscriber information.
• Policy control: Enforces rules for traffic and service management.

B. Role in "Beyond" 5G: 

The 5G core is designed to be future-proof and supports the evolution towards future generations like 6G by being cloud-native and highly programmable. Its flexible architecture allows it to be upgraded and to incorporate new technologies, ensuring it can handle the demands of future mobile communications.

[More to come ...]