What Is Network Slicing? Guide to 5G Network Slicing
5G technology promises reduced latency, improving the performance of digital experiences. However, a commercial 5G network is generally shared amongst many users. That means it may not always be able to offer the most ideal performance. Network slicing, a key feature of 5G technology, helps split the network into small virtual networks for specific use. In this article, learn what network slicing is, how its architecture works, and its benefits in 5G.
What is network slicing?
Network slicing is a way to split one 5G network into smaller virtual networks, called “slices.” Each slice is built for a specific use, like video streaming or self-driving cars.
This helps companies use one network to do many different things at the same time. For example, one slice can be fast and powerful for video, while another can be safe and reliable for cars.
Each slice works like its own private network. It follows its own rules, has its own speed, and its own level of security.
5G makes this possible by using software instead of special hardware. That means network providers can set up and change these slices quickly when needed.
Network slicing helps save money, gives better performance, and makes networks more flexible for different users and industries.
In business terms, the infrastructure provider leases parts of their physical network to Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs). These MVNOs then create multiple network slices that suit the applications they support.
How does 5G network slicing work?
Network slicing is a key part of 5G technology. It uses virtualization to split one physical network into multiple virtual ones called "slices." This means things like antennas and cables are controlled by software, not just hardware.
Slicing can happen in different parts of the 5G network, including the radio signals (RAN), the connection between towers and servers (backhaul), and the core network.
Each slice has its own rules and performance goals, such as how fast it sends data (throughput), how quickly it responds (latency), and how reliable it is. These slices work separately, so if one slice gets hit with a cyberattack, the others keep working fine.
The real power of network slicing is its flexibility. Mobile companies can use it to split traffic across different networks, divide one network into smaller parts, or even share resources between networks, all while giving each slice what it needs to work best.
Understanding network slicing architecture
There are different ways to create slices in a 5G network. When developers built the 5G system, they focused on three main use cases: faster Internet, better reliability, and more connections for smart devices. These are known as the following.
- Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB). This type of slice gives users fast Internet, even in crowded places like sports stadiums or on high-speed trains. It’s also useful for areas that need wide coverage. Technologies like massive MIMO antennas and high-frequency signals help deliver fast, strong connections.
- Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC). This slice is made for networks with tons of small devices, like sensors in smart cities. These devices don’t send much data and can handle some delay. But they must use power efficiently to save battery life. This type of slicing works well for the Internet of Things (IoT), with support for up to a million devices in one square kilometer.
- Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC). This slice supports tasks that need both super-low delay and strong reliability. It's perfect for things like remote surgeries, driverless cars, or smart factories. URLLC sends data in under one millisecond and uses advanced technologies to make sure that data arrives correctly and on time.
Benefits of network slicing
Network slicing offers numerous advantages, from security to cost efficiency. If you use this technique, the following could benefit your network.
Enhanced security
In 5G, slice isolation means each slice is kept separate, even though they all use the same physical network.
This separation makes the network safer. If something goes wrong in one slice - like unusual traffic or a technical issue - it won’t affect the others. For example, if hackers attack a slice used for smart home devices, slices used by businesses will still be protected.
Better Quality of Service (QoS)
Network slicing guarantees good Quality of Service (QoS) for different applications. QoS means ensuring that speed, reliability, and connection quality meet specific needs.
For instance, a slice designed for video streaming can prioritize fast connections, while a slice for IoT devices can focus on handling many low-power connections efficiently.
Cost savings
Network slicing helps save money because network operators only build the parts of the network each customer needs. Devices that only use basic features don’t need the full setup.
In the past, mobile networks were built so that all devices shared the same physical network. Slicing lets providers target specific users more easily and affordably.
Efficiency and flexibility
5G supports many different uses, like fast internet, smart homes, and low-power sensors. Each of these needs different speeds and amounts of data. Network slicing lets providers adjust the network to match those needs without wasting resources.
Creates revenue opportunities
Because network slicing makes it easier to offer new services, it opens the door for companies to create new sources of income. These new services can help pay for the large costs of building 5G networks.
Support for emerging technologies
Network slicing is a fundamental tool for supporting new technologies that require high-performance networks. Network slicing facilitates the Internet of Things, which connects millions of devices to the Internet.
A smartphone, for example, needs a network slice that provides stable connections and efficiently handles data.
Faster deployment
Companies can deploy 5G systems more quickly because fewer functions need to be deployed. By skipping the extra steps, they can get their systems up and running faster.
Challenges of network slicing
Network slicing is an effective way to offer new, differentiated services to both operators and their customers. Despite the apparent upsides, however, its adoption isn’t without challenges.
Enterprise security concerns with managing slices
One major issue with network slicing is keeping it secure when businesses manage their own settings. Since companies control how their slice works, hackers could try to break in. If they succeed, they might shut down services or damage key parts of the network.
Uneven security across devices
Another problem is the difference in security between devices. Simple gadgets like IoT sensors often have weak protection. Hackers could attack these devices and move to more secure areas, such as slices that hold personal data from smartphones or smart homes.
Resource overload and slice interdependence
Network slices often share things like memory, processors, and network tools. If one slice uses too much - like during a big reboot - it can slow down or hurt the others. This is a big deal in fields like healthcare, where performance and security must stay strong.
Confusion and lack of awareness
Network slicing is still a new idea. Many businesses don’t fully understand what it does or how it helps. Even companies offering slicing services are still learning how to manage it. This confusion can make some businesses unsure about using the technology.
When is network slicing used?
Most businesses have relied on one shared network for noncritical work. But as more devices require connectivity as part of the Internet of Things, businesses are exploring connectivity use cases that align with performance, high availability, scalability, and security. That’s what network slicing supports.
Teleoperated driving
Teleoperated driving means a person can control a self-driving vehicle from far away, like from an office. This is helpful for jobs that need vehicles to move around big areas, like in factories or farms.
Network slicing helps by making sure the connection is strong, fast, and smooth so the driver can see and control the vehicle in real time.
Remote treatment in emergencies
Remote medical care during emergencies can help save more lives by spotting problems sooner. But for it to work, the video connection must stay clear and smooth. Any delay, freezing, or low quality can make it harder for doctors to understand what’s happening.
A 5G network slice can fix this by offering strong, reliable service. It lets emergency vehicles send high-quality video to hospitals without interruptions, using a connection that works almost all the time.
Surveillance and monitoring
In the government, Public Safety Authorities (PSAs) use surveillance and monitoring to proactively manage public safety. The success of surveillance technologies is dependent on the key enabling factor: connectivity.
Several challenges must be overcome to harness the growing opportunity in the public sector. For one, many government departments operate in silos, with little cooperation between them and their legacy systems.
Network slicing breaks down data silos and enables sharing across agencies while meeting security requirements. The configurability of 5G slicing allows for the management of all wireless access points with a single, secure network.
Media and entertainment
Network slicing can offer special lanes for high-quality streaming, virtual reality (VR), or augmented reality (AR) applications for media and entertainment. These slices ensure users get immersive experiences, whether watching a movie or exploring a virtual world.
Frequently asked questions
What is end-to-end network slicing in 5G?
End-to-end network slicing in 5G means dividing the whole 5G network into separate virtual sections. Each section, or “slice,” is designed to serve a specific purpose or need.
Why is network slicing required in 5G?
Network slicing is important in 5G because different devices and industries have very different requirements. It helps the network handle many types of services at the same time, like streaming, smart factories, or emergency services.
What is an example of 5G network slicing?
One example is in self-driving cars. A car maker might ask for a special network slice that supports ultra-reliable, low-delay communication. This helps the car stay connected to the cloud in real time for safe driving.
