The core network is a key component of the next generation of mobile networks. It is in charge of many functions such as authentication, registration, mobility handling, session and user plane establishment and management. It has undergone several evolutions in the last decade, particularly with the advent of 5G and 6G. The latter has completely changed the architecture of the core network, embracing the Service-Based Architecture (SBA), which is well-known in Internet and TCP/IP networks. This evolution is mainly due to the evolution of 5G and 6G use cases that require high flexibility and scalability of the core network functions to adapt to the new requirements that they impose, such as low latency, high bandwidth, high number of subscribers, high mobility, etc.
In this course, we will study the mobile network from the architectural perspective and the evolution from point-to-point model used in 4G to the SBA model of 5G and 6G. We will review the different Non-Access Stratum (NAS) procedures covering authentication, registration, mobility, and session management. We will also discuss how the user plane is established and data forwarding using the PFCP and GTP protocols. Finally, we review the evolution towards more intelligent core networks enabling Machine Learning (ML) through the NWDAF function. The course is a mix of theory and lab sessions.
Teaching and learning methods :
Lectures and lab. sessions.
- 3 lectures
- 4 labs: OAI 5G CN deployment and configuration using Kubernetes, Protocol analysis with Wireshark.
Course Policies :
Attendance at the Lab session is mandatory.
- https://openairinterface.org/oai-5g-core-network-project/
- 5G Core Networks: Powering Digitalization, by Stefan Rommer et al.
This course requires knowledge of networking, Radio Acces Network (RAN), computing, and computer programming.
- 4G Core Network: Point to point architecture
- 5G Service-Based Architecture: Architecture, Network Functions, Virtualization
- Non-Access Stratum: Authentication and Registration procedures, Mobility management, Session establishment
- User plane: PFCP, GTP
- 6G functions: NWDAF, CAPIF, etc.
Evaluation :
- Labs (50%). Labs are Mandatory (attendance + reports).
- Final exams (50%).
Learning Outcomes
- Be able to design a 5G core network architecture.
- Be able to deploy and configure a 5G core network.
- Be able to program a 5G Core network.
