Network slice method, apparatus, computer device and storage medium thereof

Abstract

This application discloses a network slicing method, apparatus, computer device, and storage medium thereof, relating to the field of communication technology. The method includes: receiving a policy association request sent by a Session Management Function (SMF) network element, the policy association request including a terminal identifier and a service identifier; determining the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier; and sending a policy association response to the SMF network element, the policy association response including the identifier of the target network slice. This application achieves independence from terminal dependence during network slicing, solving the problem of low flexibility in network slicing due to limitations imposed by terminal versions and development levels, and improving the flexibility of network slicing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a network slicing method, apparatus, computer equipment and its storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of 5G technology, all industries are moving towards network informatization. Since different enterprises have different needs for network mobility, security, etc., multiple virtual networks can be separated based on network slicing technology to meet the different network needs of different enterprises.

[0003] However, in the existing technology, the flexibility of network slicing is low due to limitations imposed by the terminal version and the degree of terminal development. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a network slicing method, apparatus, computer equipment, and storage medium that can improve the flexibility of network slicing in response to the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a network slicing method applied to PCF network elements, the method comprising:

[0006] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0007] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0008] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0009] In one embodiment, determining the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier includes:

[0010] The identifier of the target network slice is determined by querying the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the service identifier in the local storage. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

[0011] In one embodiment, the policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element based on the first session establishment request of the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0012] Secondly, this application provides a network slicing method applied to SMF network elements, the method comprising:

[0013] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0014] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0015] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0016] Determine the user plane cells corresponding to the target network slice;

[0017] Based on the user plane unit, resource configuration is performed on the target network slice.

[0018] In one embodiment, before sending the policy association request to the PCF network element, the method further includes:

[0019] Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal;

[0020] If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element.

[0021] In one embodiment, session establishment authentication is performed on the terminal, including:

[0022] Obtain the authentication information corresponding to the terminal and send the authentication information to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal.

[0023] Receive the validity verification results from the data network.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request, and the second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0025] Thirdly, this application provides a network slicing method applied to a terminal, the method comprising:

[0026] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0027] Fourthly, this application also provides a network slicing device applied to a PCF network element, the device comprising:

[0028] The receiving module is used to receive policy association requests sent by the Session Management Function (SMF) network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0029] The determination module is used to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0030] The sending module is used to send policy association responses to SMF network elements. The policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0031] Fifthly, this application also provides a network slicing device applied to an SMF network element, the device comprising:

[0032] The sending module is used to send a policy association request to the PCF network element in response to receiving a first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0033] The receiving module is used to receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0034] Sixthly, this application also provides a network slicing device for use in a terminal, the device comprising:

[0035] The sending module is used to send a second session establishment request to the AMF network element, and to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0036] Seventhly, this application also provides a computer device. The computer device includes a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0037] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0038] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0039] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0040] Eighthly, this application also provides a computer device. The computer device includes a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0041] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0042] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0043] Ninthly, this application also provides a computer device. The computer device includes a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0044] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0045] Tenthly, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0046] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0047] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0048] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0049] Eleventhly, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0050] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0051] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0052] In a twelfth aspect, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program thereon, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0053] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0054] In a thirteenth aspect, this application also provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0055] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0056] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0057] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0058] In a fourteenth aspect, this application also provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0059] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0060] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0061] In a fifteenth aspect, this application also provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0062] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0063] The aforementioned network slicing method, apparatus, computer equipment, and storage medium, by sending the terminal identifier and service identifier to the PCF network element, enable the PCF network element to determine the identifier of the target network slice of the terminal based on the locally stored correspondence, terminal identifier, and service identifier. Since the above process can determine the network slice without the participation of the terminal, it eliminates the dependence on the terminal during the network slicing process, solves the problem of low flexibility in network slicing due to limitations imposed by terminal versions and development levels, and improves the flexibility of network slicing. Attached Figure Description

[0064] Figure 1 An application environment diagram of a network slicing method provided in this application embodiment;

[0065] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the first network slicing method provided in this application embodiment;

[0066] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the second network slicing method provided in this application embodiment;

[0067] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the steps of configuring resources for a target network slice, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0068] Figure 5 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the steps for establishing and authenticating a session on a terminal, as illustrated in an embodiment of the present application.

[0069] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the third network slicing method provided in this application embodiment;

[0070] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the fourth network slicing method provided in this application embodiment;

[0071] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating the fifth network slicing method provided in this application embodiment;

[0072] Figure 9 Signaling diagram of a network slicing method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 10A structural block diagram of the first network slicing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0074] Figure 11 A structural block diagram of a second network slicing device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 12 A structural block diagram of the third network slicing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 13 A structural block diagram of the fourth network slicing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0077] Figure 14 A structural block diagram of the fifth network slicing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0078] Figure 15 A structural block diagram of the sixth network slicing device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0079] Figure 16 An internal structural diagram of a computer device in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0080] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0081] The network slicing method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to, for example... Figure 1 In the application environment shown, terminal 102, PCF network element 103, SMF network element 104, and AMF network element 105 all communicate via the network. The data storage system within PCF network element 103 can store the data to be processed. By receiving a policy association request, it obtains the terminal identifier and service identifier; based on the terminal identifier and service identifier, it determines the identifier of the target network slice, and then sends a policy association response including the identifier of the target network slice to SMF network element 104. Terminal 102 can be, but is not limited to, various personal computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, IoT devices, and portable wearable devices. IoT devices can be smart speakers, smart TVs, smart air conditioners, smart vehicle devices, etc. Portable wearable devices can be smartwatches, smart bracelets, head-mounted devices, etc.

[0082] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, a network slicing method is provided, which is applied to... Figure 1 Taking the PCF network element as an example, the explanation includes the following steps:

[0083] Step 201: Receive a policy association request sent by the Session Management Function (SMF) network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0084] The terminal identifier refers to a unique character corresponding to each terminal within its home network; it can be understood as each terminal in the network system uniquely corresponding to a terminal identifier, and different terminals have different terminal identifiers. The service identifier refers to a unique character corresponding to each service; it can be understood as different services having different service identifiers.

[0085] It should be noted that the policy association request sent by the Session Management Function (SMF) network element does not carry the identifier of the target network slice. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and service identifier in the policy association request.

[0086] To further clarify, the policy association request may include information other than the terminal identifier and service identifier to determine the target network slice of the terminal.

[0087] As one implementation method, the policy association request can also include the DNN (DotNetNuke management system) information corresponding to the terminal. If the PCF network element stores the correspondence between DNN information and network slice identifiers, the identifier of the target network slice of the terminal can be determined according to the DNN information contained in the policy association request.

[0088] As can be seen from the above, the policy association request needs to include relevant information for determining the target network slice of the terminal. However, there are many types of relevant information for determining the target network slice of the terminal. Therefore, this application does not limit the types of relevant information included in the policy association request.

[0089] Step 202: Determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0090] It should be noted that determining the target network slice for a terminal may include the following: based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier, filtering is performed in a pre-defined network slice correspondence to determine the network slice corresponding to the terminal identifier and the service identifier. This network slice is the target network slice for the terminal.

[0091] The correspondence includes the correspondence between terminal identifier, service identifier, and network slice; therefore, the target network slice of the terminal can be determined based on the terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0092] To further explain, when determining the target network slice of a terminal, it is necessary to use the information contained in the policy association request and the correspondence between the information and the network slice. Therefore, different correspondences can be selected according to the different information contained in the policy association request. Then, the target network slice of the terminal can be determined according to the correspondence between various types of information and the network slices respectively.

[0093] As one implementation method, when it is necessary to determine the target network slice of the terminal, if the policy association request only contains the terminal identifier, then it is necessary to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the network slice.

[0094] Specifically, if the policy association request only contains the terminal identifier, the network slice corresponding to the terminal identifier in the policy association request is determined by filtering the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the network slice. This network slice is the target network slice of the terminal.

[0095] As one implementation method, when it is necessary to determine the target network slice of the terminal, if the policy association request only contains the service identifier, then it is necessary to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the correspondence between the service identifier and the network slice.

[0096] Specifically, if the policy association request only contains a service identifier, the network slice corresponding to the service identifier in the policy association request is determined by filtering the correspondence between the service identifier and the network slice. This network slice is the target network slice of the terminal.

[0097] In one embodiment of this application, if the policy association request contains at least two types of information (e.g., the policy association request contains both terminal identifier and service identifier), the correspondence between each piece of information and the network slice can be determined separately, and the network slice corresponding to each piece of information can be determined according to the correspondence between each piece of information and the network slice; if the network slice corresponding to each piece of information is the same network slice, then the network slice is the target network slice of the terminal; if the network slice corresponding to each piece of information is different network slice, then the network slice corresponding to each piece of information is fed back to the staff, and the staff is instructed to verify the network slice corresponding to each piece of information, and then the target network slice of the terminal is determined according to the verification result sent by the staff.

[0098] For example, if the policy association request contains identifier A and identifier B, then the correspondence between identifier A and network slice, and the correspondence between identifier B and network slice, are determined respectively. Furthermore, based on the correspondence between identifier A and network slice, network slice 'a' corresponding to identifier A is determined, and based on the correspondence between identifier B and network slice, network slice 'b' corresponding to identifier B is determined. If network slice 'a' and network slice 'b' are the same network slice, then network slice 'a' (or network slice 'b') is the target network slice for the terminal. If network slice 'a' and network slice 'b' are different network slices, then network slice 'a' and network slice 'b' are fed back to the staff, and the staff are instructed to verify network slice 'a' and network slice 'b'. Finally, the target network slice for the terminal is determined based on the verification results sent by the staff.

[0099] The verification results include the target network slices identified by staff from network slice a and network slice b.

[0100] Step 203: Send a policy association response to the SMF network element. The policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0101] It should be noted that by sending a policy association response to the SMF network element, it is ensured that the identifier of the target network slice is included in the policy association response and sent to the SMF network element.

[0102] To further explain, in order to ensure the security of the identifier of the target network slice sent to the SMF network element, the identifier of the target network slice is encrypted in advance, and the encrypted identifier of the target network slice is used as the policy association response sent to the SMF network element.

[0103] As an implementation method, there are many ways to encrypt the identifier of a target network slice. For example, the identifier can be encrypted using symmetric encryption methods, or it can be encrypted using asymmetric encryption methods. Symmetric encryption methods include, but are not limited to, DES (Data Encryption Standard) and AES (Advanced Encryption Standard). Asymmetric encryption methods include, but are not limited to, ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography) and RSA encryption algorithms. In summary, there are many methods to encrypt the identifier of a target network slice, and this paper does not limit the methods used to encrypt the identifier of a target network slice.

[0104] The aforementioned network slicing method sends the terminal identifier and service identifier to the PCF network element, enabling the PCF network element to determine the target network slice identifier of the terminal based on the locally stored correspondence, terminal identifier, and service identifier. Since the network slice determination can be achieved without terminal involvement, it eliminates the dependence on the terminal during the network slicing process. This solves the problem of low flexibility in network slicing caused by limitations in terminal version and development level, thus improving the flexibility of network slicing.

[0105] It should be noted that, due to the large number of network slices and the fact that different network slices correspond to different application scenarios, it is necessary to determine the target network slice corresponding to the terminal based on the terminal identifier and service identifier to ensure the accuracy of network slice determination, thereby enabling data transmission between the terminal and the data network.

[0106] Specifically, when it is necessary to determine the target network slice corresponding to a terminal, the local storage correspondence can be queried based on the terminal identifier and service identifier to determine the target network slice. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, service identifier and network slice.

[0107] To further explain, the correspondence between network slices can be updated according to the actual situation. For example, it can be determined whether the application scenario corresponding to a network slice has changed. If it has changed, the terminal identifier and service identifier corresponding to that network slice can be updated to ensure that the updated terminal identifier and service identifier correspond to the same application scenario as that network slice.

[0108] The network slicing method described above determines the target network slice by using the correspondence stored locally, ensuring that the target network slice can be determined without relying on the terminal, and preventing the low flexibility of network slicing due to terminal version and terminal development level.

[0109] It should be noted that, to reduce the reliance on the terminal during the network slice determination process, the target network slice needs to be determined within the PCF network element. Therefore, the terminal will not send the identifier of the target network slice to the AMF network element.

[0110] To further clarify, the policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element's first session establishment request based on the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0111] The network slicing method described above reduces the dependence on the terminal in the process of determining network slices because the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice. This ensures the flexibility of the network slice determination process.

[0112] As various industries continue to develop towards network informatization, and given the different needs of different enterprises for network mobility, security, and other aspects, network slicing technology, which separates multiple virtual networks, has emerged. However, limitations imposed by terminal versions and development levels result in a high dependence on terminals during network slicing, leading to low flexibility. To address these issues, this embodiment can... Figure 3 The method shown provides a network slicing method, which can be applied to... Figure 1 Taking the SMF network element as an example, the explanation includes the following steps:

[0113] Step 301: In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0114] The first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element contains the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0115] It should be noted that there is a correspondence between AMF network elements and SMF network elements. Therefore, after receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, the SMF network element can generate a policy association request to be sent to the PCF network element based on the terminal identifier and service identifier contained in the first session establishment request. This policy association request also contains the terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0116] To further explain, the AMF network element can filter out the SMF network element that is compatible with the terminal based on the relevant data of the terminal. After determining the SMF network element that is compatible with the terminal, the AMF network element sends the first session establishment request to the SMF network element.

[0117] The relevant data from the terminal may include, but is not limited to: S-NSSAI (Single Network Slice Selection Assistance information), DNN information, and the terminal's current location.

[0118] In one embodiment of this application, the first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request, and the second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0119] Step 302: Receive the policy association response from the PCF network element; the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0120] It should be noted that when receiving a policy association response, the information source needs to be verified to determine whether it is a policy association response fed back by a PCF network element; if not, the policy association response should be rejected.

[0121] To further explain, after receiving the policy association response from the PCF network element, if the identifier of the target network slice in the policy association response is in an encrypted state, the identifier of the encrypted target network slice is decrypted according to the decryption method determined in advance with the PCF network element to obtain the identifier of the decrypted target network slice.

[0122] In one embodiment of this application, after determining that the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice, the validity of the identifier of the target network slice is verified to determine whether the corresponding target network slice can be determined based on the identifier of the target network slice. If the corresponding target network slice cannot be determined based on the identifier of the target network slice, information feedback is sent to the PCF network element to instruct the PCF network element to send the policy association response again.

[0123] The aforementioned network slicing method sends the terminal identifier and service identifier to the PCF network element, enabling the PCF network element to determine the target network slice identifier of the terminal based on the locally stored correspondence, terminal identifier, and service identifier. Since the network slice determination can be achieved without terminal involvement, it eliminates the dependence on the terminal during the network slicing process. This solves the problem of low flexibility in network slicing caused by limitations in terminal version and development level, thus improving the flexibility of network slicing.

[0124] In one embodiment, after receiving the identifier of the target network slice, resource configuration can be performed on the target network slice, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the method includes:

[0125] Step 401: Determine the user plane cell corresponding to the target network slice.

[0126] It should be noted that since different network slices may correspond to different user plane units, when it is necessary to determine the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice, the correspondence between network slices and user plane units can be determined in advance. Then, based on the correspondence between network slices and user plane units, the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice can be determined.

[0127] The correspondence between network slices and user plane units records the user plane units corresponding to different network slices. Different network slices can correspond to the same user plane unit, and different network slices can also correspond to different user plane units.

[0128] In one embodiment of this application, when it is necessary to determine the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice, the identification of the target network slice can be used to filter in the correspondence between network slices and user plane units to determine the network slice with the same identification as the target network slice. The user plane unit corresponding to this network slice in the correspondence is the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice.

[0129] To further clarify, the correspondence between network slices and user plane units can be adjusted in real time according to actual conditions. For example, when the application scenario corresponding to a network slice and / or the resources required by the network slice change, the user plane unit corresponding to that network slice will also change. Therefore, the correspondence between network slices and user plane units needs to be updated in real time to ensure the accuracy of user plane unit determination.

[0130] In one embodiment of this application, an update frequency can be preset. When the update frequency is reached, the correspondence between network slices and user plane units is updated. For example, if the preset update frequency is once per hour, then every hour, it is checked whether the application scenario and required resources corresponding to the network slice have changed. If they have changed, the new user plane unit corresponding to the changed network slice is determined based on the staff's historical experience, thereby completing the update operation of the correspondence between network slices and user plane units.

[0131] Step 402: Configure resources for the target network slice based on the user plane unit.

[0132] It should be noted that when resource configuration of the target network slice is required, the following may be included: establishing the N4 session interface and other related interfaces corresponding to the user plane unit. At this time, the AMF network element sends an interface session management request to the base station. After the base station receives the interface session management request, it establishes the radio network resources corresponding to the terminal. After the radio network resources are established, it sends an interface session management response to the AMF network element, thereby completing the operation of resource configuration of the target network slice.

[0133] The interface session management request and interface session management response can be for the N2 (Interface between RAN nodes, a standard interface) interface.

[0134] The network slicing method described above determines user plane cells and then configures resources for the target network slice based on these user plane cells, ensuring that users can perform uplink and downlink data transmission operations with the data network.

[0135] In one embodiment, before sending a policy association request to the PCF network element, session establishment authentication can also be performed on the terminal. In this case, such as... Figure 5As shown, the method includes:

[0136] Step 501: Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal.

[0137] It should be noted that the system determines whether the data network corresponding to the terminal requires authentication. If authentication is required, session establishment authentication is performed on the terminal; otherwise, session establishment authentication is not required.

[0138] To further explain, when it is necessary to authenticate the terminal for session establishment, the authentication information corresponding to the terminal can be obtained and sent to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal; and the validity verification result fed back by the data network can be received.

[0139] The authentication information corresponding to the terminal may include the account identifier corresponding to the terminal and the account password corresponding to the account identifier;

[0140] As one implementation method, the database of the data network stores at least one account identifier and the corresponding account password for each account identifier. When it is necessary to verify the validity of the terminal, the following steps are taken: Based on the account identifier corresponding to the terminal in the authentication information, the database of the data network is filtered. If the account identifier cannot be found in the database of the data network, the terminal session establishment authentication is deemed to have failed. If the account identifier is found in the database of the data network, the account password in the database is checked against the account password in the authentication information sent by the terminal. If they are the same, the session establishment authentication is successful; if they are different, the session establishment authentication fails.

[0141] In one embodiment of this application, when session establishment authentication is required for the terminal, the terminal's display interface can pop up a window for filling in the account identifier and account password. After the account identifier and account password are filled in, the account identifier and account password are sent to the data network. The data network verifies the validity of the account identifier and account password and sends the verification result back to the SMF network element.

[0142] Step 502: If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element.

[0143] It should be noted that if authentication is successful, it proves that a trust relationship exists between the terminal and the data network, and the terminal can send a policy association request to the PCF network element. If authentication fails, it proves that no trust relationship exists between the terminal and the data network, and the terminal does not need to send a policy association request to the PCF network element.

[0144] The aforementioned network slicing method improves the security of interactions between the terminal and the data network by establishing session authentication for the terminal, reduces security risks during the network slice determination process, and ensures the smooth progress of subsequent network slice determination.

[0145] To prevent network slicing from becoming less flexible due to high dependence on terminals during the process, this embodiment can achieve the following: Figure 6 The method shown provides a network slicing method, which can be applied to... Figure 1 Taking the terminal in the example, the explanation includes the following steps:

[0146] Step 601: Send a second session establishment request to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0147] It should be noted that the second session establishment request contains relevant terminal data. The terminal sends the second session establishment request containing the terminal data to the AMF network element so that the AMF network element can select the SMF network element that is compatible with the terminal based on the relevant terminal data.

[0148] The relevant data from the terminal may include, but is not limited to: S-NSSAI, DNN information, and the terminal's current location.

[0149] In one embodiment of this application, the PCF network element determines the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier, and feeds back the policy association response to the SMF network element; the SMF network element establishes resources for the target network slice, determines the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice, and establishes the N4 session interface and radio-related interface; the AMF network element sends an interface session management request to the base station; when the base station receives the interface session management request from the AMF network element, the terminal establishes radio network resources with the base station to ensure that the terminal can subsequently perform uplink and downlink data transmission through the established radio network resources, thereby achieving the establishment of radio network resources without the terminal participating in the target network slice determination process.

[0150] The aforementioned network slicing method ensures that the AMF network element sends a second session establishment request to the SMF network element based on the second session establishment request, thereby guaranteeing that the PCF network element can subsequently determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and service identifier. This achieves the determination of the target network slice without carrying the identifier of the target network slice in the second session establishment request.

[0151] In one embodiment, when determining network slices based on PCF network elements, the following applies: Figure 7 As shown, it may specifically include the following:

[0152] Step 701: Receive a policy association request sent by the Session Management Function (SMF) network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0153] Step 702: Query the correspondence in the local storage based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier to determine the target network slice. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

[0154] Step 703: Send a policy association response to the SMF network element. The policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0155] In one embodiment, when determining network slices based on SMF network elements, the following applies: Figure 8 As shown, it may specifically include the following:

[0156] Step 801: In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element.

[0157] Step 802: Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal.

[0158] Step 803: If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0159] Step 804: Receive the policy association response from the PCF network element; the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0160] Step 805: Determine the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice.

[0161] Step 806: Configure resources for the target network slice based on the user plane unit.

[0162] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 9As shown, when it is necessary to determine a network slice, the terminal sends a second session establishment request to the AMF network element. The AMF network element selects the corresponding SMF network element and sends a first session establishment request to the SMF network element. The SMF network element sends a second session establishment response back to the AMF network element. At this time, session establishment authentication is performed on the terminal and the data network. If the authentication is successful, the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The PCF network element determines the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and service identifier, and sends a policy association response back to the SMF network element. The SMF network element establishes resources for the target network slice, determines the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice, and establishes the N4 session interface and radio-related interfaces. The AMF network element sends an interface session management request to the base station. When the base station receives the interface session management request, it establishes the radio network resources corresponding to the terminal. After the radio network resources are established, it sends an interface session management response to the AMF network element, thereby completing the resource configuration operation for the target network slice.

[0163] The aforementioned network slicing method sends the terminal identifier and service identifier to the PCF network element, enabling the PCF network element to determine the target network slice identifier of the terminal based on the locally stored correspondence, terminal identifier, and service identifier. Since the network slice determination can be achieved without terminal involvement, it eliminates the dependence on the terminal during the network slicing process. This solves the problem of low flexibility in network slicing caused by limitations in terminal version and development level, thus improving the flexibility of network slicing.

[0164] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the above embodiments are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the above embodiments may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages of other steps.

[0165] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a network slicing apparatus for implementing the network slicing method involved in the first aspect described above. The solution provided by this apparatus is similar to the implementation scheme described in the above method. Therefore, the specific limitations in one or more network slicing apparatus embodiments provided below can be found in the limitations of the network slicing method above, and will not be repeated here.

[0166] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, a network slicing device is provided, including: a receiving module 10, a determining module 20, and a sending module 30, wherein:

[0167] The receiving module 10 is used to receive policy association requests sent by the Session Management Function (SMF) network element. The policy association request includes terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0168] The determination module 20 is used to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0169] The sending module 30 is used to send a policy association response to the SMF network element. The policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0170] In one embodiment of this application, the policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element based on the first session establishment request of the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0171] Specifically, the determination module is used to: query the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the service identifier in the local storage to determine the target network slice. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

[0172] The aforementioned network slicing device sends the terminal identifier and service identifier to the PCF network element, enabling the PCF network element to determine the identifier of the target network slice for the terminal based on the locally stored correspondence, terminal identifier, and service identifier. Since the network slice determination can be achieved without terminal involvement, it eliminates the dependence on the terminal during network slicing, solving the problem of low flexibility in network slicing due to limitations imposed by terminal versions and development levels, and thus improving the flexibility of network slicing.

[0173] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a network slicing apparatus for implementing the network slicing method involved in the second aspect above. The solution provided by this apparatus is similar to the implementation scheme described in the above method. Therefore, the specific limitations in one or more network slicing apparatus embodiments provided below can be found in the limitations of the network slicing method above, and will not be repeated here.

[0174] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, a network slicing device is provided, including: a first transmitting module 40 and a receiving module 50, wherein:

[0175] The first sending module 40 is used to send a policy association request to the PCF network element in response to receiving a first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0176] In one embodiment of this application, the first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request, and the second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0177] The receiving module 50 is used to receive the policy association response fed back by the PCF network element; the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0178] In one embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, a network slicing device is provided, which further includes: a determination module 60 and a configuration unit 70, wherein:

[0179] The determination module 60 is used to determine the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice.

[0180] Configuration unit 70 is used to configure resources for the target network slice based on the user plane unit.

[0181] In one embodiment, such as Figure 13 As shown, a network slicing device is provided, which further includes: an authentication module 80 and a second sending module 90, wherein:

[0182] Authentication module 80 is used to authenticate the terminal during session establishment;

[0183] The second sending module 90 is used to send a policy association request to the PCF network element if the authentication is successful.

[0184] In one embodiment, such as Figure 14 As shown, a network slicing device is provided. The authentication module 80 in this device includes: an acquisition unit 81 and a receiving unit 82, wherein:

[0185] The acquisition unit 81 is used to acquire the authentication information corresponding to the terminal and send the authentication information to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal.

[0186] The receiving unit 82 is used to receive the validity verification result fed back by the data network.

[0187] In one embodiment, such as Figure 15 As shown, a network slicing device is provided, including: a sending module 100, wherein:

[0188] The sending module 100 is used to send a second session establishment request to the AMF network element, and to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier for determining the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0189] Each module in the aforementioned network slicing device can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in the processor of a computer device in hardware form or independent of it, or stored in the memory of a computer device in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the operations corresponding to each module.

[0190] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, which may be a terminal, and its internal structure diagram may be as follows: Figure 16 As shown, the computer device includes a processor, memory, input / output interfaces, a communication interface, a display unit, and an input device. The processor, memory, and input / output interfaces are connected via a system bus, and the communication interface, display unit, and input device are also connected to the system bus via the input / output interfaces. The processor provides computing and control capabilities. The memory includes non-volatile storage media and internal memory. The non-volatile storage media stores the operating system and computer programs. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs stored in the non-volatile storage media. The input / output interfaces are used for exchanging information between the processor and external devices. The communication interface is used for wired or wireless communication with external terminals; wireless communication can be achieved through Wi-Fi, mobile cellular networks, NFC (Near Field Communication), or other technologies. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements a network slicing method. The display unit is used to form a visually visible image and can be a display screen, a projection device, or a virtual reality imaging device. The display screen can be an LCD screen or an e-ink screen. The input device of the computer device can be a touch layer covering the display screen, or buttons, trackballs, or touchpads set on the casing of the computer device, or external keyboards, touchpads, or mice, etc.

[0191] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 16 The structure shown is merely a block diagram of a portion of the structure related to the present application and does not constitute a limitation on the computer device to which the present application is applied. Specific computer devices may include more or fewer components than those shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0192] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, including a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0193] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0194] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0195] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0196] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0197] The target network slice is determined by querying the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the service identifier in the local storage. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

[0198] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0199] The policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element based on the first session establishment request of the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0200] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, including a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0201] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0202] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0203] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0204] Determine the user plane cells corresponding to the target network slice;

[0205] Based on the user plane unit, resource configuration is performed on the target network slice.

[0206] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0207] Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal;

[0208] If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element.

[0209] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0210] Obtain the authentication information corresponding to the terminal and send the authentication information to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal.

[0211] Receive the validity verification results from the data network.

[0212] In one embodiment, the processor, when executing a computer program, also performs the following steps:

[0213] The first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0214] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, including a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to perform the following steps:

[0215] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0216] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program performing the following steps when executed by a processor:

[0217] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0218] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0219] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0220] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0221] The target network slice is determined by querying the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the service identifier in the local storage. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

[0222] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0223] The policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element based on the first session establishment request of the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0224] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program performing the following steps when executed by a processor:

[0225] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0226] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0227] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0228] Determine the user plane cells corresponding to the target network slice;

[0229] Based on the user plane unit, resource configuration is performed on the target network slice.

[0230] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0231] Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal;

[0232] If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element.

[0233] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0234] Obtain the authentication information corresponding to the terminal and send the authentication information to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal.

[0235] Receive the validity verification results from the data network.

[0236] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0237] The first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0238] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program performing the following steps when executed by a processor:

[0239] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0240] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0241] Receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements. The policy association requests include terminal identifier and service identifier.

[0242] The target network slice of the terminal is determined based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier;

[0243] The policy association response sent to the SMF network element includes the identifier of the target network slice.

[0244] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0245] The target network slice is determined by querying the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the service identifier in the local storage. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

[0246] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0247] The policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element based on the first session establishment request of the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0248] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0249] In response to receiving the first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier.

[0250] Receive policy association responses from PCF network elements; the policy association responses include the identifier of the target network slice.

[0251] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0252] Determine the user plane cells corresponding to the target network slice;

[0253] Based on the user plane unit, resource configuration is performed on the target network slice.

[0254] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0255] Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal;

[0256] If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element.

[0257] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0258] Obtain the authentication information corresponding to the terminal and send the authentication information to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal.

[0259] Receive the validity verification results from the data network.

[0260] In one embodiment, when the computer program is executed by a processor, it also performs the following steps:

[0261] The first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0262] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps:

[0263] A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes the terminal identifier and service identifier used to determine the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

[0264] It should be noted that the user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) involved in this application are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties, and the collection, use and processing of the relevant data shall comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions.

[0265] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the computer program can include the processes of the embodiments of the above methods. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0266] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0267] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed. However, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A network slicing method, characterized in that, The method, applied to policy-controlled PCF network elements, includes: Receive a policy association request sent by a Session Management Function (SMF) network element, wherein the policy association request includes a terminal identifier and / or a service identifier; If the policy association request only contains a terminal identifier, then the target network slice of the terminal is determined according to the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the network slice. If the policy association request only contains a service identifier, then the target network slice of the terminal is determined according to the correspondence between the service identifier and the network slice. If the policy association request contains both a terminal identifier and a service identifier, then the first network slice corresponding to the terminal identifier is determined according to the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the network slice; the second network slice corresponding to the service identifier is determined according to the correspondence between the service identifier and the network slice; if the first network slice and the second network slice are the same network slice, then the first network slice is taken as the target network slice. If the first network slice and the second network slice are not the same network slice, information feedback is sent to the user terminal; and information response is received from the user terminal in response to the information feedback; the information response includes a reference network slice, which is used as the target network slice; wherein the information feedback includes the first network slice and the second network slice; the reference network slice is the network slice selected by the user from the first network slice and the second network slice through the user terminal; A policy association response is sent to the SMF network element, the policy association response including the identifier of the target network slice.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier includes: The target network slice is determined by querying the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the service identifier in the local storage. The correspondence includes the correspondence between the terminal identifier, the service identifier, and the network slice.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The policy association request is triggered by the SMF network element based on the first session establishment request of the AMF network element, and the first session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

4. A network slicing method, characterized in that, Applied to SMF network elements, the method includes: In response to receiving a first session establishment request from an AMF network element, a policy association request is sent to a PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is used to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier. Receive the policy association response fed back by the PCF network element; the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Determine the user plane unit corresponding to the target network slice; Based on the user plane unit, resource configuration is performed on the target network slice.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Before sending the policy association request to the PCF network element, the following steps are also included: Perform session establishment authentication on the terminal; If authentication is successful, a policy association request is sent to the PCF network element.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The session establishment authentication for the terminal includes: Obtain the authentication information corresponding to the terminal, and send the authentication information to the data network. The authentication information is used to instruct the data network to verify the validity of the terminal. Receive the validity verification result fed back by the data network.

8. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first session establishment request is triggered by the AMF network element based on the terminal's second session establishment request, and the second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

9. A network slicing method, characterized in that, Applied to a terminal, the method includes: A second session establishment request is sent to the AMF network element to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier for determining the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

10. A network slicing device, characterized in that, Applied to PCF network elements, the device includes: The receiving module is used to receive policy association requests sent by Session Management Function (SMF) network elements, wherein the policy association request includes a terminal identifier and / or a service identifier; The determination module is configured to: if the policy association request contains only a terminal identifier, determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the network slice; if the policy association request contains only a service identifier, determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the correspondence between the service identifier and the network slice; if the policy association request contains both a terminal identifier and a service identifier, determine the first network slice corresponding to the terminal identifier based on the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the network slice; determine the second network slice corresponding to the service identifier based on the correspondence between the service identifier and the network slice; if the first network slice and the second network slice are the same network slice, then use the first network slice as the target network slice; if the first network slice and the second network slice are not the same network slice, send information feedback to the user terminal; and receive an information response from the user terminal in response to the information feedback; use a reference network slice included in the information response as the target network slice; wherein the information feedback includes the first network slice and the second network slice; the reference network slice is the network slice selected by the user from the first network slice and the second network slice through the user terminal; The sending module is used to send a policy association response to the SMF network element, wherein the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

11. A network slicing device, characterized in that, Applied to SMF network elements, the device includes: The sending module is configured to send a policy association request to the PCF network element in response to receiving a first session establishment request sent by the AMF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier, and is configured to instruct the PCF network element to determine the target network slice of the terminal based on the terminal identifier and the service identifier. The receiving module is used to receive the policy association response fed back by the PCF network element; the policy association response includes the identifier of the target network slice.

12. A network slicing device, characterized in that, Applied to a terminal, the device includes: The sending module is used to send a second session establishment request to the AMF network element, and to instruct the AMF network element to send a first session establishment request to the SMF network element, so that the SMF network element sends a policy association request to the PCF network element. The policy association request includes a terminal identifier and a service identifier for determining the target network slice. The second session establishment request does not carry the identifier of the target network slice.

13. A computer device comprising a memory, a processor, a receiver, and a transmitter, wherein the memory stores a computer program, characterized in that, When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

14. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

15. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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