The 5G core (5GC) represents the backbone of the next-generation mobile network, providing the foundation for the advanced features and services expected from 5G. As the world transitions to 5G, the core network undergoes a significant transformation compared to previous generations, offering enhanced flexibility, scalability, and efficiency.
The 5G core is designed to support a wide range of use cases, from enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) to ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC) and massive machine-type communications (mMTC), enabling industries to unlock new possibilities in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, and smart cities. The 5G core is the central component of the 5G architecture, responsible for handling data processing, service management, and network control. Unlike the 4G LTE core, the 5G core adopts a service-based architecture (SBA) that provides greater flexibility and modularity. This architecture is cloud-native, meaning it leverages virtualization and containerization technologies to deliver enhanced scalability, faster deployment, and improved resource utilization. The move to a cloud-native 5G core also enables network slicing, allowing operators to create multiple virtual networks within a single physical infrastructure, each optimized for specific use cases or services. The 5G core is composed of several key components, each responsible for specific network functions.
The Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) manages the connection and mobility of user equipment (UE), handling tasks like authentication, registration, and mobility management. The Session Management Function (SMF) is responsible for managing user data sessions, including resource allocation and Quality of Service (QoS) enforcement. The User Plane Function (UPF) handles the routing of user data packets between the device and the internet, ensuring efficient data transmission. The Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) manages network slicing, assigning specific network slices to users or services based on their requirements. Other essential components include the Authentication Server Function (AUSF), which authenticates users and devices, and the Policy Control Function (PCF), which manages policies related to charging and QoS.