IPLOOK 5G Core Network (5GC) Overview
IPLOOK, an experienced mobile core network provider, focuses on delivering professional wireless mobile core network products and solutions for operators and enterprises. IPLOOK 5GC is one of our flagship products, comprising the following key Network Functions (NFs): UPF, SMF, AMF, UDM/AUSF, PCF, NSSF, NEF, and NRF.
Highly compact and efficient, IPLOOK 5GC can be deployed on small-scale servers, including low-end COTS hardware. Moreover, it enables subscribers to register seamlessly across 3G/4G/5G networks, ensuring a smooth migration path to 5G for existing 3G/4G users.
User Plane Function (UPF)
High-performance and highly scalable, the UPF plays a critical role in data transfer within the 5G Core. Designed for distribution and virtualization, it delivers superior user plane performance in 5GC environments. A single IPLOOK 5GC UPF instance supports throughput of up to 100 Gbps.
Session Management Function (SMF)
Building on IPLOOK’s proven 4G SGW solution, the 5GC SMF is a fundamental component of the 5G Service-Based Architecture (SBA). It manages PDU sessions and QoS flows for UEs, ensuring consistent session states across both control and user planes throughout the network.
Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF)
The AMF serves as the control plane anchor for all access networks connecting to the 5G Core. It handles UE access, mobility, and security functions. Key responsibilities of IPLOOK’s AMF include:
- Registration Management
- Connection and Reachability Management
- Mobility Management
- Security and Access Authorization
Unified Data Management (UDM) / Authentication Server Function (AUSF)
As a unified data management center, IPLOOK’s UDM/AUSF delivers converged subscriber data handling across 2G/3G/4G/5G networks. It supports seamless evolution from 4G EPC HSS to cloud-native 5GC UDM/AUSF, enabling full user data migration without service disruption. This carrier-grade solution offers flexibility, cost efficiency, and scalability—ideal for both small and large service providers.
Policy Control Function (PCF)
IPLOOK’s 5GC PCF evolves directly from its EPC PCRF, built on a cloud-native Docker container platform. It retains all legacy 3G/4G policy and charging capabilities while adding full support for 5G-specific QoS policies and 3GPP-defined interfaces (e.g., N7, N15, N5, Rx). Operators can flexibly enable or disable features, protocols, and interfaces based on deployment needs.
Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF)
In the 5G era, “slicing is capability—and slicing is product.” The NSSF is a native 5G function that optimizes network performance and reduces operational costs by assisting the AMF in selecting the appropriate network slice instances for each UE, enabling tailored services for diverse vertical industries.
Network Exposure Function (NEF)
Positioned between the 5GC and external (or internal) Application Functions (AFs), the NEF acts as a secure gateway for exposing network capabilities and data. All third-party applications must interact with the 5GC through the NEF. Using northbound APIs and southbound 3GPP interfaces (e.g., N29 to SMF, N30 to PCF), IPLOOK’s NEF enables seamless integration between network services and business applications.
Network Repository Function (NRF)
The NRF is the central registry of the 5G service-based architecture. It supports service discovery by receiving registration and query requests from NFs and returning information such as NF type, address, and supported services. As the “DNS of 5GC,” the NRF ensures dynamic, automated interconnection among network functions.
Contact us for more information about IPLOOK’s 5GC network elements—and let us help you accelerate your 5G business success.
