Network connectivity and resource utilization have changed significantly in the last several years. Nowadays, we use a technology called slicing to improve the usage of limited resources. With it, we're able to deliver customized solutions for each user while also minimizing waste.
Basically, slicing allows us to split a physical infrastructure into numerous smaller parts, that is, virtual networks. The concept changes how we manage our network capabilities. It allows us to provide enormous bandwidth to individual users or groups of users while minimizing latencies.
In this article, we will explain the concept, after which we'll break down the biggest benefit of 5G network slicing.
5G network slicing utilizes the same virtualized network functions for the entire provider network architecture. Among others, the concept hinges on support services and radio access networks, associated data center resources, and carrier core networks.
Communication service level agreements are the basis for rapport between businesses and users. With network slicing, companies are able to deliver meaningful guarantees to their clients, such as:
As the name implies, an operator uses slicing for robust traffic management. They're able to set up multiple virtual networks and improve network resource utilization. Instead of "putting all their eggs into one basket," companies are now able to provide exceptional user experience to all their clients.
Through slicing, companies are able to reach a certain level of traffic capacity, spectrum efficiency, and connection density. Each network consists of a separate set of network functions. These functions are configured so they can support the specific requirements of each user. Among others, you're able to modify coverage, speed, capacity, and connectivity to better suit users' particular needs.
We also have to mention that slicing allows the sharing of functional components. Each of them is isolated to prevent traffic interference with other slices. This approach reduces the risk of new service implementation. Slicing supports migration, allowing different apps to be launched on their separate slices.
The fantastic thing about the 5G slicing concept is that it allows companies to fulfill the unique requirements of each user. In a way, slices work as isolated end-to-end networks. The technology has a wide application ranging from the Internet of Things to healthcare, manufacturing, broadband, and entertainment.
If we were to separate all potential applications, we quickly determine there are three unique slices:
Massive machine type communication is primarily used for mobile devices. It allows these devices to operate at a low rate within a specific geographic area. mMTC ensures high latecy of a 10 seconds max during a round trip. It is worth noting that mobile devices that utilize mMTC slicing generate have long battery lives.
As you can expect, massive machine type communication is prevalent among mobile network operators. They utilize the slicing method for connected homes, smart sensors, environmental monitoring, and smart city building. Just to have a better understanding of mMTC's scope, this type of slicing can serve up to 1 million mobile devices within a square mile.
Through eMBB slicing, we're able to introduce services with significantly heterogeneous requirements. The network is being distributed based on dense user collection, highly mobile users, as well as people who are spread around geographically.
The eMBB is heavily dependent on the combo of spectra and numerous MIMO antennas. The spectrum relies on the usual 4G weavelenghts, while also stretching into the millimeter band. That way, eMBB is most commonly utilized for gaming, streamline, and augmented reality/virtual reality.
This type of network slicing is vital for securing communications between users. URLLC offers zero packet loss as well as minimal latencies. Similar to eMBB, this form of slicing needs MIMO antennas to be effective. That way, companies are able to manage different radio networks through signal handling and packet coding.
Today, private and public entities utilize URLLC slicing for autonomous cars, drones, manufacturing automation, healthcare procedures, and other tasks that require high reliability coupled with low latency.
We can use this concept to achieve incredible speed coupled with low latency. 5G network slicing maximizes network resources, thus delivering an unparalleled user experience. The concept provides various benefits when used for multiple networks. For example, it helps us with eCommerce, the Internet of Things, healthcare processes, and other tasks.
These are some of the best examples of how 5G network slicing can help the society at large:
5G concept is vital for businesses that handle sensitive data. For example, hospitals can create their own private systems with enhanced network performance. Through customization, these hospitals are able to keep sensitive patient data on the premises.
5G network slicing provides unparalleled bandwidth vital during the transmission of large image files. Medial experts can rely on enhanced mobile broadband to perform surgeries from afar without being present in the ER.
Another common use case within healthcare is remote patient care. Through multiple logical networks, hospitals are able to treat their clients without physical contact. The same physical network infrastructure that would help on hospital premises can be utilized to provide care for those who can't leave their homes.
Wireless networks with low latency and high bandwidth allow doctors to have face-to-face appointments with patients and decide the next course of action. If network slicing wasn't available, small and medium businesses would have to set up dedicated connections, which are very expensive.
Network slicing ensures cost-effective and flexible MC (mission critical) services. This feature is vital for many governmental institutions that require fast connection and high security, such as the National Security Agency and first responders.
Right now, many 5G services are executed through a dedicated network deployment. Unfortunately, this approach is both expensive and inefficient. Fortunately for users, network slicing is tech that allows a high degree of customization. That way, companies are able to boost their coverage without incurring additional expenses in network equipment and towers.
Through the creation of separate 5G network slices, companies are able to physically segregate traffic. Businesses use this technology to ensure that each user gets the best experience possible with mission critical services.
Through 5G slicing, we're able to improve the efficiency of daily operations, especially when it comes to fixed wireless access and mobile broadband. Every service that a company provides can be connected to a separate slice. This allows us to automate various tasks, such as billing, configuration, and service assurance, which are generally manual tasks.
Modern manufacturing companies have to rely on automation to remain competitive in today's market. In these particular situations, businesses have to rely on slicing to improve their daily operations. Through network slicing, companies are able to send instructions to different robots and equipment on the floor.
Slicing allows robots to change roles when required, hasten software uploads, and move around unattended. Network administrators use slicing to reroute resources toward specific tasks and improve overall performance.
The great thing about slicing is that it allows you to orchestrate and execute unique services. For example, you can modify your 5G network slicing during natural disasters and other emergencies. That way, you can adapt to specific traffic requirements without having to invest too much manual work.
5G network technology has become invaluable for smart cars. Slicing allows vehicles to move around on their own accord while minimizing usage. Besides autonomous vehicles, 5G slicing is utilized for virtual reality and remote control of vital infrastructure. Each of these services has unique latency and bandwidth requirements that can be reliably delivered through a proper configuration.
Spectrum is a critical resource in networking, ensuring the best possible experience for users. Companies are using slice-aware layer management to optimize traffic based on individual service requirements, thus enhancing spectral efficiency. By improving the utilization of this resource, companies are able to improve leadership while achieving a high level of communication.
Another reason why companies utilize 5G network slicing is that it enhances sustainability. This makes slicing especially important for private networks, which come in the form of virtual networks or dedicated physical networks.
The thing that makes dedicated networks so specific is their high power, space, and other resource requirements. By utilizing slicing, we're able to split the network resources among numerous users and, in such a manner, deliver enough benefits to everyone.
Slicing is also important because it minimizes waste. Instead of using a large chunk of space and power, you can separate and optimize resources among numerous users. Specifically, slice trafficking is vital for reducing power usage within radio networks.
Although 5G network slicing is generally a novel concept, it does have its fair share of challenges. Like other types of networks, it is exposed to outside threats that can jeopardize data and operations. Among other things, you need to be wary of DoS and man-in-the-middle attacks as the biggest potential threats.
As with other systems, software vulnerabilities are the most common entrance point for hackers. We also have to consider backdoors that are introduced into network components. Through these vulnerable components, cybercriminals are able to perform sabotage attacks and to spy on our traffic.
The best way to address these threats is by being protective in your cybersecurity practices. Companies should introduce modern AI-driven software with automatic updates. They also need to improve employee training to avoid potential mishandling of devices, software, or data.
Slicing is the best way to improve your network resource utilization. It improves business outcomes by allowing companies to serve a bigger number of users more efficiently. Most importantly, slicing allows better use of modern technologies such as autonomous cars, autonomous equipment, virtual reality, remote medicine, and the Internet of Things.