5G Core Network Architecture

This course presents the 5G System (5GS) as defined by 3GPP, focusing on the functionalities of the 5G core (5GC) network. The relevant basics of NG-RAN are also covered. Roles of the Network Functions (NFs) as specified in the current 3GPP R16 standards are discussed, including the interactions both within the 5GC and between the 5GC and the NG-RAN, external AF for Service Influencing and the EPC for 4G ↔ 5G Interworking. The training explains the challenges the 5GS faces from the huge variety of services it will carry, and presents the new network features that will enable the 5GS to satisfy the various service requirements in an optimal and cost-efficient way: Service Based Architecture approach with specialized NFs, Network Slicing, PDU Sessions with multiple PDU Session Anchors, hosting services closer to the user, traffic influencing from external AFs, and the 5G PCC model used to enforce service-specific subscription and traffic handling rules. The course presents how the 5GC enables the different types of UEs to access services, discussing the 5G Registration, the PDU Session Establishment traffic cases, User Plane resources definitions and handling, UE mobility handling, and the three basic 5G use cases (eMBB – including Vo5G, MIoT/mMTC, URLLC).