Mobile Phone Technology

The 5G core comprises the functions required for the 5G network to operate. These include user authentication and secure transmission. Unlike the 4G core, the 5G core must support mmWave technology, which operates at a higher frequency than 4G. The 5G Core offers faster speeds, reduced congestion and lower latency, providing a better user experience. While the core still provides similar services to those of 4G (and 3G/2G before that), it is based on a more distributed, cloud-based architecture. This allows for greater edge functionality. It is implemented via a service-based architecture comprising microsystems.

The key features of the 5G core are:
• AMF - Access and Mobility Management Function. This handles the registration of the 5G equipment (phones etc) and authenticates the access to the 5G network.
• SMF - Session Management Function. It manages the phone (or other device) session. A session is the stream of actions betewenn signing onto the network and signing off.
• UPF - User Plane Function. The UDP manages the data transfer from the 5G device to the network (usually the Internet).
• UDM - Unified Data Management. It provides the management of all subscriber data, a single place to access the subscriber information. Similar in nature to the HSS (Home Subscriber Service) in 4G, but designed for a cloud-based implementation. It manages user authentication, authorisation, and access to network services
• PCF - Policy Control Function. Manages the network in terms of network quality, including the control of network slices.

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