5G+ not only offers greater speed and lower latency but also introduces a revolutionary functionality: Network Slicing. This technology allows the division of network infrastructure into virtual segments, adapting them to different services and applications according to their needs.
To understand how it works and why it’s so important, let’s review five key terms that explain the impact of Network Slicing on modern connectivity.
1. MVNO – Mobile Virtual Network Operator
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) play a crucial role in the adoption of Network Slicing. Unlike traditional operators, MVNOs do not own their own network infrastructure but instead lease capacity from operators with physical networks.
Thanks to Network Slicing, MVNOs can offer personalized services on specific segments of the 5G+ network, ensuring performance tailored to different types of users. For example, one MVNO might focus on Internet of Things (IoT) services, while another could provide low-latency connectivity for cloud gaming.
In short, MVNOs benefit from Network Slicing by gaining access to optimized and segmented networks, enabling new business models and greater flexibility in service offerings.
2. NFV – Network Function Virtualization
Network Function Virtualization (NFV) is the foundation of Network Slicing. It is a technology that allows network functions to be virtualized, separating them from the physical hardware to run them in software.
Thanks to NFV, operators can create and modify network segments dynamically without the need to install new physical equipment. This means that instead of a single static network, multiple virtual networks can be generated within the same infrastructure, each optimized for specific needs.
For example, a hospital utilizing 5G+ for remote surgeries could have an ultra-secure and low-latency network segment, while a smart factory might use another segment specialized in massive connectivity for IoT sensors.
3. SDN – Software Defined Networking
Software Defined Networking (SDN) complements NFV by allowing centralized and intelligent management of the network. With SDN, operators can control how resources are allocated within different segments of the 5G+ network in real-time.
This control capability allows the adjustment of connectivity according to demand, ensuring that each user or service receives exactly the resources it needs. A clear example is data traffic in a stadium: during a sporting event, the operator can assign more bandwidthBandwidth is the maximum transfer capacity to the segment supporting live broadcasts and reduce the capacity of less prioritized segments.
Moreover, SDN enables network automation, reducing response times to incidents and improving operational efficiency.
4. SLR – Service Level Requirements
For Network Slicing to work correctly, each network segment must meet certain Service Level Requirements (SLR). These requirements ensure that each virtual network has the appropriate characteristics for its purpose.
SLRs include aspects such as:
- Minimum latency for real-time applications like autonomous driving.
- Guaranteed bandwidth for 8K streaming or virtual reality.
- Enhanced security for banking and government services.
- High availability and reliability for emergency and health networks.
By defining these service requirements, operators can allocate network resources efficiently, ensuring that each application operates with the expected level of performance.
5. RAN – Radio Access Network
The Radio Access Network (RAN) is the part of the mobile network that connects user devices to the telecommunications infrastructure. In the context of 5G+ and Network Slicing, the evolution of RAN is key to optimizing network segmentation.
Thanks to virtualization and techniques like Open RAN (O-RAN), access networks can be divided into independent segments, allowing each device to connect to the “slice” of the network that best meets its needs.
For instance, in a smart city, part of the RAN may be dedicated to autonomous vehicles, another for real-time video surveillance, and yet another for emergency services, with no interference between them.
The development of dynamically virtualized RAN is essential to realize the promise of Network Slicing in the 5G+ ecosystem.
Conclusion: The Connectivity of the Future is Flexible and Segmented
Network Slicing with 5G+ is one of the most significant innovations in telecommunications, enabling dynamically, customized, and optimized networks for various sectors.
Thanks to technologies like MVNO, NFV, SDN, SLR, and RAN, 5G+ is not only faster but also more efficient and adaptive, providing an unprecedented connectivity experience across sectors such as healthcare, industry, entertainment, and smart cities.
As operators implement these solutions, we will see a world where every device and application will have access to a network specifically designed for its needs. Network segmentation is no longer just a theory; it is a reality that will define the future of global connectivity.