RF Drive Test Software & 5G Network Tester along with Framtidssäkrad 5G-infrastruktur
As the telecommunications world evolves, operators are focused on designing 5G networks to support evolved Mobile Broadband (eMBB) services. These services are primarily expected to operate in the mainstream 5G frequency range of band n78 (3.4GHz – 3.8GHz). The current Mobile Management Entities (MMEs) are equipped to handle 5G enhancements as defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), ensuring a seamless transition and integration with existing 4G infrastructure. So, now let us see Is Your 5G Network Ready for the Future along with Reliable LTE RF drive test tools in telecom & RF drive test software in telecom and Reliable 5g tester, 5G test equipment, 5g network tester tools in detail.
Network Model and Redundancy in 5G
In the non-stand-alone (NSA) network model, New Radio (NR) handles the S1 user plane directly towards the serving gateway (S-GW) while the 4G eNodeB remains the signaling point towards the MME. This setup means that, in terms of redundancy, 5G follows the existing LTE protocols. Both LTE and 5G access share the same pool of MME addresses, eliminating the need for new configurations on the Radio Access Network (RAN) side. Gateway (GW) redundancy mechanisms remain unchanged, with multiple GWs configured in the Domain Name System (DNS) to be selected by the MME using round-robin or other established selection mechanisms.
Gateway Selection via DNS
The 3GPP standard introduces a new suffix “+nc-nr” (Network Capabilities – New Radio) to the application protocol name in DNS/Name Authority Pointer (NAPTR) records. This allows the MME to signal to the DNS that an Access Point Name (APN) should be resolved for 5G access. Consequently, the DNS server will provide the IP addresses of the 5G Overlay GWs along with their capabilities.
For Dual Connectivity with New Radio (DCNR) capable User Equipment (UE), the Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) uses service parameters from the DNS server for dynamic gateway selection. This ensures that even when attached in 2G or 3G coverage, 5G terminals are anchored in 5G Overlay GWs.
MME and 5G Profile Configuration
Certain vendor MMEs support a standard preconfigured 5G profile, which allows operators to introduce 5G services without needing specific 5G subscriber profiles in the Home Subscriber Server (HSS). This is particularly useful for operators who face challenges in upgrading their HSS or IT provisions in time for early 5G deployment.
Gateway Configuration and Policy Design
The transition to 5G does not alter the service or policy design for GWs significantly. For Mobile Broadband (MBB) use cases, services applied for 4G will remain in effect for 5G access. The GW configurations for APNs enabled for 5G will mirror existing setups, with throughput and Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) values negotiated via the Gx interface/Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF).
Charging Data Records (CDRs) in 5G
The introduction of 5G NSA has minimal impact on the Charging Data Records (CDRs) structure and attributes. Traffic for gateway charging, whether sent via 5G or 4G, is counted and reported through existing mechanisms. For offline charging/CDRs, operators have the option to either maintain the current structure or activate new containers for 5G-specific counting, depending on IT capabilities.
Roaming Considerations
In the initial phase of 5G deployment, operators are advised to suppress 5G support for inbound roamers. Similar to the rollout of Voice over LTE (VoLTE), it is anticipated that 5G roaming agreements will be established over time. Initially, the MME should suppress any 5G service for inbound roamers even if their subscriptions allow it. In cases where the MME lacks a generic switch for roamers, a Diameter Routing Agent (DRA)-based solution can be implemented to enforce this suppression by manipulating subscriber profiles received from the HSS.
Conclusion
The design and implementation of 5G networks involve leveraging existing LTE infrastructure while introducing enhancements to support the unique requirements of 5G services. Operators must carefully consider network models, redundancy mechanisms, gateway configurations, charging data protocols, and lawful interception requirements to ensure a smooth and effective deployment. As 5G technology continues to evolve, staying ahead with robust planning and strategic implementation will be crucial for delivering next-generation mobile broadband services. Also read similar articles from here.
