5G Network Architecture Simplified

Summary

In this video, the 5G network architecture is explained in a simplified manner, starting with a basic overview of the components involved. The video details key network nodes like the GNB (Next Generation Node B), Central Unit (CU), Distribution Unit (DU), and core network components such as AMF, UPF, and SMF. These components work together to ensure efficient communication, low latency, and optimal service quality. The explanation also covers how these elements interact in the user and control planes, with a focus on how mobile devices connect to the network and manage policies. The video aims to demystify 5G networks for a broader audience.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video explains 5G Network architecture in a simplified manner.
• 📱 The 5G mobile network includes a base station (GNB) that can be split into two units: the Central Unit (CU) and the Distribution Unit (DU).
• 📍 The DU is located closer to users, handling real-time scheduling functions, such as determining which devices can communicate and when.
• 🔧 The CU handles non-real-time functions and works with higher layers of the network stack, while the DU operates on lower layers like physical, MAC, and RLC.
• 🌍 The split between CU and DU improves performance and supports use cases like Edge Computing by bringing data closer to users.
• 🌐 The 5G core network consists of several key nodes, including AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) and UPF (User Plane Function).
• ⚙️ The architecture has two main planes: the control plane (for signaling and control functions) and the user plane (for user data like video content).
• 📶 The UPF connects mobile devices to outside networks, like the internet, and is linked to SMF (Session Management Function) for session management and policy enforcement.
• 📊 SMF manages device sessions, assigns IP addresses, selects UPFs, and controls the interaction with the PCF (Policy Control Function).
• 🔑 The EMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) handles authentication, access control, and slice selection to determine which AMF serves a user device.
• 📚 UDR (Unified Data Repository) is a centralized database where subscription and application data are stored, enabling unified data management.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on explaining the 5G network architecture in a simplified manner, breaking down complex components like nodes, interfaces, and the relationship with earlier mobile network generations.

What are the key components of the 5G radio network?

The key components of the 5G radio network are the cell tower, Next Generation Node B (GNB), which can be split into a central unit (CU) and a distribution unit (DU).

What are the roles of the Central Unit (CU) and Distribution Unit (DU) in 5G networks?

The DU is responsible for real-time scheduling functions such as deciding which device communicates when and what resources are assigned. The CU handles non-real-time functions, working with the higher layers of the network protocol stack.

How does splitting the GNB into CU and DU benefit the network?

Splitting the GNB into CU and DU allows the DU to be located closer to the user, which is beneficial for use cases like Edge Computing and reducing latency by bringing data closer to the user.

What are the main nodes of the 5G core network?

The main nodes in the 5G core network are the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) and the User Plane Function (UPF).

What is the difference between the control plane and the user plane in 5G architecture?

The control plane carries control functions like signaling and traffic, while the user plane carries user data, such as content from a video being watched on a mobile phone.

What is the function of the UPF in the 5G network?

The UPF is part of the user plane and connects the mobile device to outside networks like the internet. It is also responsible for managing service quality and applying policies sent via the Session Management Function (SMF).

What does the Session Management Function (SMF) do in the 5G network?

The SMF establishes and manages sessions between user devices and the mobile network, manages IP addresses, and controls the UPF while interfacing with the Policy Control Function (PCF) for policy and business rule enforcement.

How does the AMF function in the control plane of 5G networks?

The AMF is responsible for providing access and authentication and handling mobility management, including the selection of AMFs based on the service type the user device is accessing.

What role does the UDR play in the 5G network?

The Unified Data Repository (UDR) is a centralized database that stores subscriber, application, and other relevant data, which is managed by the Unified Data Management (UDM) function.

How does the NEF contribute to 5G networks?

The Network Exposure Function (NEF) exposes the 5G core network's capabilities to third-party apps and developers, allowing them to create tailored services using cellular network services through secure APIs and SDKs.