5G Network Slicing: Advantages and Disadvantages

This page explores the advantages and disadvantages of 5G network slicing. It outlines the benefits and drawbacks associated with this key 5G technology.

What is 5G Network Slicing?

A 5G network slice spans across multiple parts of the 5G network, encompassing the 5G terminal, 5G RAN (Radio Access Network), and 5GC (Core Network). Network slicing can even be deployed across multiple operators.

A network slice comprises dedicated and/or shared resources, such as storage, processing power, and bandwidth. Critically, one network slice is isolated from other network slices within the system.

Network slice types are defined based on functional or behavioral perspectives. Consequently, mobile network operators can deploy a single network slice type that fulfills the needs of multiple verticals. Alternatively, they can deploy multiple different network slice types packaged as a single product to meet the diverse requirements of different business customers. Network slicing is categorized into Vertical slicing, Horizontal slicing, Static slicing, and Dynamic slicing.

Benefits or Advantages of 5G Network Slicing

The following are the benefits or advantages of 5G network slicing:

• Resource Virtualization: It utilizes NFV (Network Functions Virtualization) and SDN (Software-Defined Networking) to divide the physical network into multiple virtual networks, catering to various customer requirements.

• Service Differentiation: A single network can be used to offer various service-based and specific use-case-based customer requirements.

• Efficient Resource Allocation: Operators can allocate the appropriate amount of resources per network slice. This leads to effective resource utilization. For example, one network slice can be configured for low latency and low data rates, while another can be configured for high throughput.

• Cost Reduction: It helps network operators reduce expenses (OPEX - Operational Expenditure) and capital expenditure (CAPEX).

• Improved Operational Efficiency: It offers improvements in operational efficiency and time to market for the delivery of 5G network services.

• Overcoming DiffServ Limitations: It overcomes the drawbacks of “DiffServ,” a popular QoS (Quality of Service) solution. DiffServ struggles to discriminate and differentiate the same traffic type (e.g., VoIP) originating from different tenants. Moreover, DiffServ lacks the capability to isolate different traffic types. Network slicing addresses these limitations.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of 5G Network Slicing

The following are the drawbacks or disadvantages of 5G network slicing:

• Core Network Focus: It is usually applied in the core network part of the 5G network. While it can also be implemented in the RAN part with resource pooling, the RAN (Radio Access Network) needs to be redesigned to fully leverage the benefits of network slicing.

• Interoperability Challenges: Interoperability needs to be thoroughly tested to ensure network slicing functions as expected across the 5G network.

• Industry Consensus Needed: A common consensus among industry experts is needed to maximize its effectiveness, and this will take time to achieve.

• Sophisticated Resource Management: While it offers more efficient use of shared radio resources, it requires more sophisticated techniques to ensure the isolation of these radio resources.