Core Network Architecture for FWA Operators

Core network architecture is the main part of fwa services. It links users to the internet and controls data movement. In 2024, more than half the world had over 50% of fwa CPE shipments with 5g. Moving from 4G EPC to 5g core gives faster speeds and better 5g fixed wireless access. 5g core allows flexible, scalable, and unified control. Operators need this setup to meet the rising need for fast fwa. 5g core also makes networks more reliable and improves service quality.

Key Takeaways

• 5G core networks make fixed wireless access faster. They also make service quality better.
• Operators can be more flexible with cloud-native architecture. They can also grow their networks easily with service-based design.
• Network slicing lets operators make virtual networks for different users. This helps the network work better for everyone.
• It is important to control and manage user data in real time. This helps give users a smooth experience.
• When OSS and BSS systems work together, operations are easier. This also makes customer service better.
• Picking the right deployment model is important. Centralized, distributed, or hybrid models can help the network work best for users.
• Security is very important. Encryption and access controls keep user data safe and protect the service.
• Operators need to keep changing and improving. This helps them keep up with new 5G technology and what users want.

Core Network Architecture Essentials

EPC and 5G Core Network

The core network for fixed wireless access has changed a lot. It moved from 4G to 5g. The Evolved Packet Core, or EPC, was the main part of 4G. It helped with connections and user data for broadband. Now, the 5g core network brings new features. It supports more services and gives faster internet. The 5g core network uses cloud native architecture. This lets operators manage things with more flexibility. It also helps them scale up or down. The 5g core network supports edge computing. This helps bring fast internet to people in far away places.

The 5g core network makes connections better for fixed wireless access. It supports enhanced mobile broadband and low-latency communication. The core can change quality of service right away. This is important because users want fast and steady connections. The 5g core network uses network slicing. This lets operators make virtual networks for different needs. For example, one slice can give fast internet to homes. Another slice can help businesses get broadband. The core network now gives operators more control and better performance for all broadband users.

Service-Based Architecture

The 5g core network uses a service based architecture. This design uses cloud native architecture. Each network function works as its own service. Operators can manage or update each part by itself. They do not need to change the whole system. This makes the network more flexible and saves money. The service based architecture also uses edge computing. Operators can put network functions closer to users. This lowers delay and makes fixed wireless access work better.

Note: The service based architecture in the 5g core network uses microservices and containerization. This helps operators launch new services fast and manage resources better.

Key Functions and Interfaces

The 5g core network has many important functions and interfaces. These include the Access Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), Unified Data Management (UDM), Policy Control Function (PCF), and User Plane Function (UPF). Each function has a special job. The AMF helps users sign up and connect. The SMF controls sessions and works with the user plane. The UDM manages user data and checks if users can join. The PCF helps set rules for how the network works. The UPF handles user data and sends packets.

The 5g core network uses cloud based infrastructure and edge computing. This helps operators give fast internet to more people. The core network separates control and user data. This means operators can manage each part by itself. The architecture also uses edge computing. This brings network functions closer to users. It makes fixed wireless access faster and lowers delay.

AAA and Subscriber Management

AAA means Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting. It is a big part of the core network for fixed wireless access. AAA systems check if users can join the network. They also control what users can do and keep track for billing. Old AAA systems had trouble growing and working well. New AAA solutions use cloud native architecture. They can handle more users and more data. This is important because more people use fixed wireless access now.

Modern AAA systems use microservices and edge computing. They can grow or shrink as needed. This helps operators manage user data and make connections better. Real-time control is important for users. AAA systems now support real-time updates. This means users get better and faster service. Some solutions, like Huawei’s SDM, manage user data in one place. This makes it easier for operators to control access and make new services. Other solutions, like Titan.ium’s HLR and EIR, give strong performance and security for managing users. They help operators manage connections across different network areas.

• Old AAA systems have trouble growing and working well, which makes it hard to manage users.
• New AAA solutions must handle lots of data and new services, which is very important for managing users in FWA networks.
• Customers want things to work right away, so AAA needs to be advanced to make users happy.

1. Cloud-Native Architecture: Makes it easy to grow and fix, which is important for lots of users.
2. Microservices-Based Components: Lets each part grow or change by itself, making things work better.
3. Intelligent Network Optimization: Makes service better and helps users by managing traffic well.

Huawei’s SDM solution helps users by managing data in one place, making sure they can always get access on different networks. It makes things easier for operators and helps them make new services, which is important for managing users in modern telecom.

Policy and Charging (PCRF/PCF)

Policy and charging are important parts of the core network for fixed wireless access. In 4G, the Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) set network rules and charging. In the 5g core network, the Policy Control Function (PCF) does this job. The PCF uses cloud native architecture and edge computing. It helps operators set rules for connections and user data. The PCF also supports network slicing. This lets operators make special rules for different broadband users.

The table below shows the main differences between 4G and 5g core network parts:

In 4G, devices connect through the MME and SGW. In the 5g core network, devices connect through the AMF and SMF. Both networks can use the same User Plane Function (UPF). The 5g core network uses a service based architecture. This lets operators manage policy and charging in one place. It helps operators manage connections and user data more easily. The PCF in the 5g core network can change rules right away. This is important because users want fast and steady broadband. The core network now gives operators more control and better performance for all broadband users.

Gateways and Data Flow

Gateways are very important in fixed wireless access networks. They help move data between users and the internet. In 4G, the Serving Gateway (SGW) and Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW) do this job. In 5G, the User Plane Function (UPF) takes over. The UPF keeps user data and control signals apart. This helps operators manage traffic and make networks work better.

The UPF is close to the user or at the edge. This makes internet faster and lowers delay. The UPF sends user data to the right place. It can be the internet or a private network. The UPF checks data packets for safety. Operators can add more UPFs for more users. This makes the network easy to grow and change.

Data flow in FWA networks follows a simple path. The customer premises equipment (CPE) connects to the radio access network (RAN). The RAN sends data to the core network. The UPF sends data to where it needs to go. Each step uses safe and fast links. Operators watch these flows to keep service good.

A table shows the main gateways and what they do:

Operators use gateways to support network slicing. Each slice has its own data path. This helps serve homes, businesses, and special services at once. Gateways also help with charging and rules. They make sure users get the right speed and service.

OSS/BSS Integration

OSS (Operations Support Systems) and BSS (Business Support Systems) help operators run networks and manage customers. OSS watches the network, fixes problems, and keeps services working. BSS handles billing, customer accounts, and products. Connecting OSS/BSS to the core network is important for good FWA service.

Operators face some problems when linking OSS/BSS with core network parts:

• Old systems may not work well with new ones.
• Using different vendors makes things harder.
• Standard interfaces and protocols help systems talk to each other.
• Changing from special interfaces to Open APIs needs careful planning.

Operators must keep things running smoothly during integration. They need to keep data correct everywhere. Middleware or adapters help connect different systems.

Note: Good OSS/BSS integration lets operators start new services fast and help customers quickly. It also helps them watch network performance and fix problems fast.

Operators use automation and analytics in OSS/BSS to make service better. They can find problems early and fix them before users notice. This helps FWA networks stay flexible and easy to grow.

5G Fixed Wireless Access Deployment Models

5g fixed wireless access uses different ways to give internet. These ways help homes and businesses get online. Each way sets up the core network in its own style. Operators pick a way based on how much area they cover, how fast they want the internet, and how they want to manage things. The main ways are centralized, distributed, and hybrid or converged architectures.

Centralized Core Network

A centralized core network puts all main jobs in one place. Operators use this when they want to control everything from one data center. The core does user management, policy, charging, and data flow. This setup is good for small or medium fwa networks. It is easy to manage and keep safe.

Centralized architecture helps operators save money on hardware and workers. They do not need to build lots of sites. They can fix or update the core from one spot. This way works best in cities or places with good backhaul. It may not work well in country areas where users are far away.

Tip: Centralized core networks are easy to manage and keep safe, but users far from the core may have delays.

Distributed Core Network

A distributed core network spreads main jobs to many places. Operators use this to bring the network closer to users. They put User Plane Function (UPF) nodes near the edge. This helps fwa networks reach more people and lowers delay.

Distributed architecture gives operators more choices. They can add new UPF nodes when more people join. This makes the network easy to grow. Operators can also send user data in better ways. They make service better for everyone, even as the network gets bigger.

• The distributed core network lets operators put User Plane Function (UPF) nodes where they need them, which helps fixed wireless access grow.
• This way makes user plane traffic move better, so the network works well.
• Moving from 4G to 5g lets more people join without hurting service for others.

Operators must take care of many sites in a distributed model. They need strong tools to manage everything together. These tools help them watch, update, and keep all parts safe. Good management keeps service steady and safe for all users.

Embedded Core in Base Stations

Some operators put small core jobs right in base stations. This means the base station has its own little core. It can handle user data and control at the edge. This works well in far away places. It brings 5g fixed wireless access to spots with weak backhaul.

Embedded cores lower delay and make speed better. They also make the network stronger. If one base station stops, others still work. Operators use this for special needs, like country internet or private networks.

Hybrid and Converged Architectures

Hybrid and converged architectures mix centralized and distributed ways. Operators use these to get the best of both. They can run some core jobs in one place and others at the edge. This helps both mobile and fixed wireless access.

Hybrid ways help operators serve many kinds of users. They can help homes, businesses, and mobile devices with one core network. Converged setups also mix wireline and wireless access. They use one 5g core for both types of networks.

• Mix wireline and wireless access
• Use one 5g core for mobile and fixed networks
• Remove extra jobs like authentication and subscriber databases
• Make Quality of Experience (QoE) better with fixed-mobile convergence
• Bundle wireless and wireline bandwidth for better speed and reliability

Operators pick hybrid and converged ways to save money and make service better. They do not need to run different networks for each service. They can start new products faster and manage everything from one place.

Note: Operators must pick the right way for their needs. They should think about coverage, speed, cost, and how easy it is to manage the network.

5g fixed wireless access gives operators many ways to build networks. Centralized, distributed, and hybrid ways each have good points. Operators can match the way to their service area and what users need. Good core network architecture helps them give fast, strong, and flexible fixed wireless access.

RAN and Core Integration

5G RAN Interfaces

5g RAN interfaces link the radio part to the core. They help move data and control signals. Users and the core talk through these interfaces. There are main integration points in 5g fixed wireless access. These points include mobile packet core, user equipment connection management, user plane traffic handling, baseband processing, and the radio interface. Each point has its own job to help data move well.

These points help operators build 5g fwa networks that work well. They support many users and keep things running smoothly.

CPE Connectivity

CPE means customer premises equipment. It is the device at homes or businesses that connects to the 5g network. Good CPE connectivity is important for fwa. It helps users get fast and steady internet. CPE devices link the radio access network to the core. They must support high speeds and low delay.

CPE connectivity gives several benefits in fwa:

Operators pick CPE devices that fit what their fwa users need. Good CPE helps the core give strong service.

End-to-End Service Flow

End-to-end service flow shows how data moves from the user to the internet and back. In 5g fwa, this flow starts at the CPE, goes through the RAN, and reaches the core. Each part must work together for good service. Operators use best practices to keep the flow smooth.

These practices help operators keep 5g fwa networks working well. They make sure users get fast, reliable service from start to finish.

Scalability and Performance in 5G FWA

High Throughput Strategies

High throughput means sending lots of data fast. It is a big goal for 5g fwa networks. Operators use different ways to make speeds faster and help more users. Millimeter-wave technology lets networks use higher frequency bands. This gives more bandwidth and makes internet faster. Advanced antenna technologies like Massive MIMO and beamforming help signals work better. These tools make the network stronger and more efficient. Network slicing makes special virtual networks for different needs. This way, each app gets the right amount of resources.

Operators also look at channel bandwidth. In 5g, fwa can use up to 100MHz in sub 7GHz bands. It can use up to 400MHz in millimeter-wave bands. Bigger channel bandwidth means users get faster internet. MIMO technology can double the data rate compared to old systems. All these ways help operators give high-speed internet to homes and businesses.

• Millimeter-wave technology gives more bandwidth and speed.
• Network slicing helps with different needs.
• Massive MIMO and beamforming make the network work better.

Low Latency Design

Low latency means less waiting for data to move. It is important for a good user experience in 5g fwa. The core network is designed to bring user plane traffic closer to the edge. This setup makes data travel faster. The 5g standalone architecture lets operators put User Plane Function nodes near users. This helps meet the low latency needs of new apps.

Operators use some design rules to keep latency low:

• Make the network fast to respond
• Use network slicing for special virtual networks
• Put User Plane Function nodes at the edge

5g fwa tries to get a one millisecond round trip delay. This is as fast as old wireline services. The core and edge work together to support many devices and fast connections.

Note: Putting network functions at the edge helps operators reach strict latency and reliability goals.

Reliability and Redundancy

Reliability and redundancy mean the network keeps working even if something breaks. Operators use backup systems to keep service running during problems. The core can switch to a backup if something goes wrong. Edge nodes have backup links to keep users online.

A table shows what operators use for reliability:

Operators watch the core and edge all the time. They use smart tools to find problems early. This helps them fix things before users notice. Reliable 5g fwa networks give users steady and fast service, even when something unexpected happens.

Security and Unified Management

Core Network Security

Security in the 5g core for fwa keeps users safe. It also makes sure services keep working. Operators face many problems that can hurt the core and fwa. They must stop attacks on resources, settings, APIs, and hardware. The table below shows threats and how operators stop them.

Operators use these ways to keep the 5g core safe. They protect fwa networks from attacks and keep user data secret.

Threat Detection

Threat detection in the 5g core for fwa helps operators find problems early. Operators use tools to watch for strange things in real time. They look for signs of attacks, like too many requests or odd data moves. They also check APIs and virtual machines for weak spots.

Operators set alerts for weird actions. They use special tools to find leaks or bad access. Two-step login and watching who gets in help stop attackers. Encryption keeps data safe as it moves in the fwa network.

Operators must update their threat detection tools often. This keeps the 5g core ready for new risks and protects fwa users.

Network Monitoring and Automation

Network monitoring and automation help the 5g core for fwa work well. Operators use tools to watch the network and fix problems fast. Automation stops mistakes and helps operators find errors quickly. It also gives safe access to company resources without needing experts.

Operators use monitoring to check data use and network health. Automation helps them manage settings and logs for fixing issues. API-driven orchestration lets operators change the network quickly when needed. They can make the 5g core for fwa bigger or smaller as needed.

• Smart tools stop mistakes.
• Gives safe access right away.
• Makes fixing problems easier by using network checks and logs.
• Helps the network grow with API-driven orchestration.
• Makes managing data easier by automating checks.

Network automation saves time and money. It lets operators manage the 5g core for fwa without outside help. Reliable connections and mobility management are easier with these tools.

Best Practices and Challenges

Planning and Design Tips

Operators must follow some important steps to build a strong core for FWA. They need to think about signal interference. Other networks and devices can cause problems with signals. Frequency planning and advanced antenna technologies help fix these problems. Weather is also important. Rain, snow, and fog can make signals weak. Operators should use weather-resistant equipment and sealed boxes to keep the core safe. Network congestion happens when many people use the network at once. Operators can use demand forecasting and scalable infrastructure to handle this.

Operators should plan together as a team. People from different groups work together to make sure business plans guide the network. Fixed mobile convergence planning helps save money and makes the network work better. Value-oriented planning means starting in places that matter most. Coordinated investment planning helps operators spend money on important things like optical fibers. This stops them from building too much extra stuff.

Tip: Operators should always check for signal problems, weather risks, and possible congestion before starting a new FWA project.

Common Pitfalls in FWA Core Networks

Many problems can happen when building an FWA core network. The table below shows what operators often face and what each problem means:

Operators must look out for these problems. They need to test the core and the network in different weather and places to make sure it stays strong.

Solutions and Future-Proofing

Operators can use new ideas to keep the core ready for the future. Platforms like AxyomCore help start 4G and 5G services fast. These platforms support new service ideas and let operators offer different types of connections. They also help operators make more money with custom 5G services.

Operators should pick advanced, converged core solutions for better energy use and high performance. Flexible and scalable architecture lets the network grow and change when needed. AI-driven ideas can help make connections better and get ready for new problems.

Operators can also:

1. Use open APIs and vendor-agnostic integration to make sure the core works with other systems.
2. Choose a standards-based approach to launch new services faster.
3. Pick platforms that can change with market needs for quick innovation and lower costs.

Note: Operators who focus on flexibility, scalability, and new ideas will keep their FWA core networks strong as 5G standards change.

A strong core network architecture is the main part of good 5g fixed wireless access. Research shows this setup makes service better, helps new tech, and needs strong security.

Operators can do these things to make their 5g FWA networks better:

• Use a full assurance plan to see the whole network.
• Try different analytics to get more information.
• Add tools to fix problems fast.

Operators must keep changing as 5g technology grows.

FAQ

What is a core network in FWA?

A core network in FWA links people to the internet. It moves data and controls who can join. It helps operators give fast and steady fixed wireless access.

What makes 5G core networks different from 4G EPC?

5G core networks use cloud-native design and service-based architecture. They support network slicing and edge computing. They also give faster speeds. These features help operators serve more users with better quality.

What is network slicing in 5G FWA?

Network slicing makes separate virtual networks for different needs. Operators can give homes, businesses, or special services their own slice. This makes performance and security better for each group.

What role does the User Plane Function (UPF) play?

The UPF handles user data traffic. It sends data to the right place, like the internet or private networks. Operators put UPF nodes close to users to lower delay and make speed better.

What is OSS/BSS integration in FWA networks?

OSS/BSS integration connects network operations and business systems. OSS manages the network. BSS handles billing and customer accounts. Good integration helps operators start services and fix problems fast.

What are the main deployment models for 5G FWA?

Operators use centralized, distributed, embedded, or hybrid core networks. Each model fits different coverage areas and user needs. The choice depends on speed, cost, and how operators want to manage things.

What security measures protect the 5G core network?

Operators use encryption, access controls, and real-time monitoring. They set strong passwords and watch for threats. These steps keep user data safe and services working.

What challenges do operators face with FWA core networks?

Operators face signal interference, weather issues, and network congestion. They must plan for these problems and use advanced tools to keep service strong.