5G Network Masterclass

Master 5G Network Technology

Comprehensive training on 5G core networks, RAN, backhaul, and MPN implementations

5G Network Fundamentals

What is 5G?

5G is the fifth generation of cellular network technology, designed to deliver higher data speeds, ultra-low latency, and massive device connectivity. It operates on three main frequency bands: low-band (sub-1GHz), mid-band (1-6GHz), and high-band (mmWave, 24GHz and above).

Key 5G performance metrics include peak data rates up to 20 Gbps, latency as low as 1ms, and support for up to 1 million devices per square kilometer.

5G Key Technologies:

  • Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output)
  • Beamforming and beam tracking
  • Network slicing for service customization
  • Cloud-native core network architecture
  • Edge computing integration

5G Network Components

Core Network (5GC)

The 5G Core (5GC) is a cloud-native, service-based architecture with the following key functions:

  • AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function): Handles connection and mobility management
  • SMF (Session Management Function): Manages user data sessions
  • UPF (User Plane Function): Routes user data packets and performs QoS enforcement
  • AUSF (Authentication Server Function): Provides authentication services
  • UDM (Unified Data Management): Manages subscriber data and authentication credentials

The 5GC uses Service-Based Architecture (SBA) with HTTP/2 interfaces between network functions, enabling microservices deployment.

RAN & gNodeB

The Radio Access Network (RAN) connects user devices to the core network. In 5G, the base station is called gNodeB (gNB).

  • Central Unit (CU): Handles higher layer protocols (PDCP, RRC) and can be centralized
  • Distributed Unit (DU): Manages MAC and physical layer processing
  • Radio Unit (RU): Handles RF processing and beamforming

5G RAN uses split architecture (CU/DU split) with functional splits defined in 3GPP. The fronthaul between DU and RU uses eCPRI protocol.

Backhaul & Fronthaul

5G transport network consists of fronthaul (RU-DU), midhaul (DU-CU), and backhaul (CU-5GC) segments.

  • Fronthaul: Requires ultra-low latency (<100μs) and high bandwidth (25Gbps+ for mmWave)
  • Midhaul: Carries partially processed data with relaxed latency requirements (~1ms)
  • Backhaul: Connects RAN to core with fiber, microwave, or IP/MPLS networks

Emerging technologies include xHaul (integrated transport), time-sensitive networking (TSN), and enhanced CPRI (eCPRI) for efficient fronthaul.

5G Network Architecture

End-to-End 5G Architecture

5G architecture is designed with a service-based approach in the core network and a cloud-RAN approach in the radio access network.

User Equipment (UE)

5G NR capable devices with multiple antennas for MIMO operation

Radio Access Network (RAN)

gNodeB with CU/DU split architecture supporting massive MIMO and beamforming

Core Network (5GC)

Cloud-native, service-based architecture with network slicing capabilities

Key Interfaces in 5G Architecture

NG gNB ↔ 5GC (N2 for control, N3 for user plane)
Xn gNB ↔ gNB (inter-base station communication)
F1 CU ↔ DU (functional split interface)
E1 CU-CP ↔ CU-UP (control-user plane separation)

Mobile Private Network (MPN) Implementations

Standalone MPN

Complete private 5G network

Technical Implementation

  • Dedicated 5G core network deployed on-premises
  • Private spectrum allocation (licensed or unlicensed)
  • Full control over network functions and policies
  • Isolated from public networks

Use Cases

  • Industrial IoT in manufacturing
  • Mission-critical communications
  • Military and defense applications

Pros & Cons

✓ Complete control

✓ Highest security

✓ Customization

✗ High cost

✗ Complex management

Hybrid MPN

Combination of private and public networks

Technical Implementation

  • Private RAN with shared or dedicated spectrum
  • Core network functions split between private and public
  • MEC (Multi-access Edge Computing) integration
  • Secure interconnection with public 5G core

Use Cases

  • Enterprise campuses
  • Smart ports and logistics
  • Healthcare facilities

Pros & Cons

✓ Balanced cost

✓ Public network fallback

✓ Flexible deployment

✗ Shared security

✗ Limited customization

Virtual MPN

Network slicing-based private network

Technical Implementation

  • Network slicing on public 5G infrastructure
  • Dedicated virtual network functions
  • Isolated QoS and security policies
  • Shared RAN with slice-aware scheduling

Use Cases

  • Smart city applications
  • Large-scale IoT deployments
  • Temporary event networks

Pros & Cons

✓ Lowest cost

✓ Rapid deployment

✓ Scalability

✗ Least isolation

✗ Dependent on MNO

5G Deployment Considerations

Spectrum Options for MPN

Licensed Spectrum

Dedicated frequency bands allocated by regulators (e.g., 3.7-3.98GHz CBRS in US, 3.7-3.8GHz in EU). Provides guaranteed QoS but requires spectrum licensing.

Unlicensed Spectrum

Shared bands like 5GHz (802.11ac) or 6GHz (802.11ax). Lower cost but subject to interference. 5G NR-U extends 5G to unlicensed spectrum.

Shared Spectrum

Models like CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) with three-tier sharing between incumbents, priority access, and general authorized access.

Network Slicing in MPN

Network slicing creates multiple virtual networks on shared physical infrastructure, each with dedicated resources and characteristics.

Slice Types

eMBB URLLC mMTC

Slice Components

  • RAN slice: Dedicated PRBs, scheduling policies
  • Transport slice: QoS, bandwidth allocation
  • Core slice: Dedicated network functions

Management

Slice lifecycle management through NSSMF (Network Slice Subnet Management Function) and CSMF (Communication Service Management Function).

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