Network of networks

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a network of networks. A method includes reading, from each network of a plurality of networks, a first capability indication open by a respective network, where the first capability indication open by the respective network indicates: a first capability that the respective network can provide to a first host with the first host attached to the respective network; for each of the plurality of networks, checking whether a first capability that the respective network can provide matches a first capability required by a first application of the first host; and instructing the first host to attach to the first network of the plurality of networks in response to checking that the first capability that the first network of the plurality of networks can provide matches the required first capability of the first application of the first host.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a network of networks.

[0002] abbreviation

[0003] 3GPP: Third Generation Partnership Project

[0004] 4G / 5G / 6G: fourth generation, fifth generation, and sixth generation

[0005] EC: Engine Control

[0006] HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol

[0007] IP: Internet Protocol

[0008] KPI: Key Performance Indicator

[0009] L1 / L2 / L3: Layer 1 / Layer 2 / Layer 3

[0010] NoN: Network of Networks

[0011] NPA: Nonprofit Altruistic Agency

[0012] OAM: Operation and Maintenance System

[0013] OPC-UA: Open Platform Communications – Unified Architecture

[0014] OSI: Open Systems Interconnection

[0015] PHY: Physical layer

[0016] PON: Passive Optical Network

[0017] QUIC: Fast UDP Internet Connections

[0018] RAN: Radio Access Network

[0019] RC: Resource Control

[0020] TLS: Transport Layer Security

[0021] UDP: User Datagram Protocol

[0022] VoD: Video on Demand

[0023] WiFi: Wireless Fidelity Background Art

[0024] Today, the network provides high performance for its hosts, but some improvements are still recommended. Summary of the Invention

[0025] Its purpose is to improve existing technology.

[0026] According to a first aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising:

[0027] means for calculating (110) open capabilities of the first network based on capabilities inherent to the first network and capabilities of a second network to which the first network is connected; and

[0028] Means for exposing (120) an exposure capability of a first network at a northbound interface of the first network.

[0029] The first network may be stacked on the second network.

[0030] The first network and the second network can be run in parallel at the same layer.

[0031] The first network may be capable of providing at least one of the following:

[0032] - a corresponding communication path from the first host to the second host if the first host is attached to the first network, or

[0033] In a case where the first host is attached to the first network, the first network and the second network can together provide a respective communication path from the first host to a third host through the first network and the second network.

[0034] According to a second aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising:

[0035] means for reading, from each of the plurality of networks, a first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a first capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host if the first host attaches to the corresponding network;

[0036] a component for checking, for each of the plurality of networks, whether a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network matches a first capability required by a first application of the first host; and

[0037] Means for instructing the first host to attach to a first network of the plurality of networks in response to detecting that a first capability that the first network of the plurality of networks can provide matches a first capability required by a first application of the first host.

[0038] The device may also include:

[0039] Means for disabling the first host from attaching to a first network of the plurality of networks in response to detecting a mismatch between a first capability provided by the first network of the plurality of networks and a first capability required by a first application of the first host.

[0040] In a case where the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the multiple networks is equal to or better than the first capability required by the first application of the first host, the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the multiple networks may match the first capability required by the first host.

[0041] The device may also include:

[0042] a component configured to monitor whether the component for checking detects, for each of the plurality of networks, that: a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match a first capability required by a first application of the first host;

[0043] means for instructing the first host to reduce the required first capability of the first application of the first host to a reduced required first capability so that the first capability that can be provided by the first network in the plurality of networks matches the reduced required first capability in response to monitoring that the means for checking detects, for each network in the plurality of networks, that the first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match the required first capability of the first application of the first host; and

[0044] means for supervising whether confirmation is received that the first host has reduced the required first capability to the reduced required first capability; wherein

[0045] The means for instructing is configured to instruct the first host to attach to a first network of the plurality of networks in response to receiving confirmation that the first host reduced the required first capability to a reduced required first capability.

[0046] The device may also include:

[0047] Means for commanding the first host to stop a first application on the first host requiring at least a portion of the required first capability in response to the supervisory acknowledgement not being received.

[0048] The device may also include:

[0049] a component configured to monitor whether the component for checking detects, for each of the plurality of networks, that: a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match a first capability required by a first application of the first host; and

[0050] A component for commanding the first host to stop a first application on the first host that requires at least part of the required first capability in response to monitoring that the component for checking detects for each of a plurality of networks that a first capability that the corresponding network can provide does not match the required first capability of the first application of the first host.

[0051] The means for reading may be configured to: read, from each of the plurality of networks, a second capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the second capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a second capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host when the first host is attached to the corresponding network;

[0052] The component for checking may be configured to: for each network among the plurality of networks, check whether the second capability that can be provided by the corresponding network matches the second capability required by the second application of the first host;

[0053] The means for instructing may be configured to: in response to checking that a second capability that can be provided by a second network among the plurality of networks matches a second capability required by a second application of the first host, instruct the first host to attach to a second network among the plurality of networks;

[0054] The second network of the plurality of networks may be different from the first network of the plurality of networks.

[0055] For each network in the plurality of networks, the first capability that the corresponding network can provide may include providing a communication path from the first host to the second host when the first host is attached to the corresponding network.

[0056] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method comprising:

[0057] calculating the open capabilities of the first network based on capabilities inherent to the first network and capabilities of a second network to which the first network is connected; and

[0058] At the northbound interface of the first network, the open capabilities of the first network are opened.

[0059] The first network may be stacked on the second network.

[0060] The first network and the second network can be run in parallel at the same layer.

[0061] The first network may be capable of providing at least one of the following:

[0062] - a corresponding communication path from the first host to the second host if the first host is attached to the first network, or

[0063] In a case where the first host is attached to the first network, the first network and the second network can together provide a respective communication path from the first host to a third host through the first network and the second network.

[0064] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method comprising:

[0065] reading, from each of the plurality of networks, a first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a first capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host if the first host is attached to the corresponding network;

[0066] For each of the plurality of networks, checking whether a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network matches a first capability required by a first application of the first host; and

[0067] In response to checking that a first capability that can be provided by a first network among the multiple networks matches a first capability required by a first application of the first host, the first host is instructed to attach to the first network among the multiple networks.

[0068] The method may further include:

[0069] In response to detecting that a first capability provided by a first network among the plurality of networks does not match a first capability required by a first application of the first host, an instruction is provided to prohibit the first host from attaching to the first network among the plurality of networks.

[0070] In the case that the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the multiple networks is equal to or better than the first capability required by the first application of the first host, the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the multiple networks can match the first capability required by the first host.

[0071] The method may further include:

[0072] monitoring whether the component for checking detects, for each of the plurality of networks, that a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match a first capability required by a first application of the first host;

[0073] In response to monitoring that the component for checking checks for each of the plurality of networks that a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match a first capability required by a first application of the first host, instructing the first host to reduce the first capability required by the first application of the first host to a reduced required first capability, so that the first capability that can be provided by the first network in the plurality of networks matches the reduced required first capability; and

[0074] supervising whether confirmation is received by the first host that the required first capability is reduced to a reduced required first capability; wherein

[0075] The instructions are configured to instruct the first host to attach to a first network of the plurality of networks in response to receiving confirmation that the first host reduced the required first capability to a reduced required first capability.

[0076] The method may further include:

[0077] In response to the supervisory confirmation not being received, the first host is commanded to stop a first application on the first host that requires at least a portion of the required first capability.

[0078] The method may further include:

[0079] monitoring whether the component for checking checks for each of the plurality of networks whether: a first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match a first capability required by a first application of the first host; and

[0080] In response to monitoring that the component for checking checks for each of the multiple networks that the first capability that the corresponding network can provide does not match the first capability required by the first application of the first host, the first host is commanded to stop at least part of the first application on the first host that requires the required first capability.

[0081] The reading may include: reading, from each of the plurality of networks, a second capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the second capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a second capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host when the first host is attached to the corresponding network;

[0082] The checking may include: for each network among the plurality of networks, checking whether a second capability that can be provided by the corresponding network matches a second capability required by the second application of the first host;

[0083] The instructions may include: in response to checking that a second capability that can be provided by a second network among the plurality of networks matches a second capability required by a second application of the first host, instructing the first host to attach to a second network among the plurality of networks;

[0084] The second network of the plurality of networks may be different from the first network of the plurality of networks.

[0085] For each network in the plurality of networks, the first capability that the corresponding network can provide may include providing a communication path from the first host to the second host when the first host is attached to the corresponding network.

[0086] The method of each of the third and fourth aspects may be a method of operating a network of networks.

[0087] According to a fifth aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising an instruction set configured to, when executed on a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of the third aspect or the fourth aspect. The computer program product may be embodied as a computer-readable medium or directly loadable into a computer.

[0088] According to some example embodiments, at least one of the following advantages may be achieved:

[0089] Better utilization of network resources;

[0090] Can reduce total energy consumption;

[0091] Can improve digital engagement across society. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0092] Further details, features, objects, and advantages are apparent from the following detailed description of preferred example embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0093] Figure 1 shows a NoN according to some example embodiments;

[0094] Figure 2 illustrates definitions of networks and hosts according to some example embodiments;

[0095] Figure 3 shows the hierarchical structure of the NoN;

[0096] Figure 4 It shows the requirements of different services that NoN has to meet;

[0097] Figure 5 shows the KPIs provided by different layers of the NoN;

[0098] Figure 6 shows the terms used in this application;

[0099] Figure 7 Corresponding to Figure 3 , additionally indicating the KPIs provided;

[0100] Figure 8 An example embodiment is shown before switching from a left network to a right network;

[0101] Figure 9 An example embodiment is shown after switching from a left network to a right network;

[0102] Figure 10 Shown in a network layer view Figure 8 Example embodiments of;

[0103] Figure 11 Shown in a network layer view Figure 9 Example embodiments of;

[0104] Figure 12 An apparatus according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0105] Figure 13 A method according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0106] Figure 14 An apparatus according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0107] Figure 15 A method according to an example embodiment is shown; and

[0108] Figure 16 An apparatus according to an example embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0109] Below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, certain exemplary embodiments are described in detail, wherein, unless otherwise specified, the features of the exemplary embodiments can be freely combined with each other. However, it should be clearly understood that the description of certain exemplary embodiments is given only as an example and is by no means intended to limit the present disclosure to the disclosed details.

[0110] Furthermore, it should be understood that the apparatus is configured to perform the corresponding method, although in some cases only the apparatus or only the method is described.

[0111] Figure 1 An example of a network of networks is shown. In this example, the network of networks includes four layers: layer x, layer x+1, layer x+2, and layer x+3, but the number of layers in a NoN is unlimited. In this example, the bottom layer x includes two networks (network A and network B), but the number of networks per layer is unlimited. Network A and network B are connected to each other. In some NoNs, all networks in the same layer of the NoN are directly connected to each other, while in other NoNs, one or more networks in the same layer of the NoN are not directly connected to every other network in the same layer of the NoN.

[0112] Networks are stacked in protocol layers. For example, networks can be stacked in OSI layers. The meaning of layering is not limited to pure ISO / OSI layering. OSI layering can be a comprehensive (and in some cases beneficial) implementation option. Here are some examples of potential layering styles (not intended to be complete):

[0113] OSI layering: Routed networks can run on top of layer 2 (Ethernet) networks. Routed networks can be considered layer 3, and transport networks can be considered layer 2.

[0114] Service layering: Content services (e.g., VoD) can be provided by a routing network that may or may not be vertically (northbound / southbound) connected to another routing network and horizontally connected to other service networks, e.g., via IP / HTTP3 / QUIC.

[0115] Secure Bridging Networks: Different networks can offer different levels of security, for example, from TLS security to PHY-based post-quantum security. Therefore, networks offering the same level of security can be considered "horizontal" or "same layer," while networks with lower security levels can be considered "layer xy," and networks with higher security levels can be considered "layer x+y."

[0116] For ease of understanding, the following description assumes an OSI-like layering, but the example can also be applied to other types of layering.

[0117] exist Figure 1 In [1], host X is attached to network A. Each host is attached to at least one network of the NoN. Multiple hosts can be attached to the same network of the NoN. One or more hosts attached to a network of the NoN form a layer above the layer of the corresponding network. Figure 1 In the example, host X is located at layer X+1. Typically, a host is not directly connected to other hosts at the same layer, but in some examples, a host can be connected to another host at the same layer. A higher-level network or higher-level host is not attached to the host; that is, the host is the top element of the NoN network stack. The host uses one or more services of a network of networks and / or one or more services provided via a network of networks.

[0118] In addition, Figure 1 In the example, network cluster 3, which includes network C and network E above network C, is attached to network A. That is, network C is directly attached to network A, and network E is directly attached to network C. The number of networks in a network cluster is not limited. Network A can be conceptually regarded as a network cluster 1 including a single network. Each network opens its interface to the corresponding peer network. In some cases (for example, in the case where an existing operator has multiple layers of networks), some networks forming a cluster only open their interfaces to the networks of the network cluster above them, but not to other networks above them (networks that do not belong to the cluster). For example, network B belonging to network cluster 2 does not open its interface to network C belonging to network cluster 3, nor to network cluster 2.

[0119] Host Y is attached to network E, and thus to network cluster 3. Host Y belongs to tier x+3.

[0120] exist Figure 1 In Figure 2, network cluster 2 includes network B at layer x and network D at layer x+1. Networks B and D are directly connected to networks A and C, respectively. Host Z is attached to network D and, therefore, to network cluster 2. Host Z belongs to layer x+2.

[0121] The network may be a fixed (wired) network or a wireless network (eg, a cellular network such as a 3GPP network; a WiFi network, a Bluetooth network), and may belong to different OSI layers (layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, . . . ).

[0122] Networks in a NoN can be interconnected vertically and / or horizontally. In this way, a hierarchical NoN results in a potentially infinite number of tiers. Some of these networks can provide northbound interfaces for other networks or hosts to connect to. The southbound process of connecting a layer x+1 network to a layer x network and a layer x+1 host to a layer x network is called "attachment." From a purely hierarchical perspective, host attachment and network attachment are similar, but there are significant differences in terms of OAM, NoN management, and attach rates (how often an attach occurs):

[0123] Hosts have a much higher attach rate (more frequent), e.g. due to mobility

[0124] The attachment of a network results in a service offering (KPI), i.e. the network will provide [service] KPIs based on its own and inherited KPIs via its northbound interface(s), while the host selects the attachment point based on its service requirements

[0125] NoN control or NoN management can distinguish between hosts and networks: hosts are endpoints of e2e connections, while networks are path elements of e2e connections; NoN control will compile different paths between hosts and storage via the appropriate networks of the NoN.

[0126] A host (e.g., a service client) communicates with other hosts (e.g., a service server) only at the service level. For example, if a host communicates with a network for service purposes, the network is also considered a host in a NoN.

[0127] From a layering perspective, these two types of attachment are the same kind, especially when the host is being converted to a network (or vice versa).

[0128] When a network in a NoN is connected vertically or horizontally to other networks in the same NoN, the peer networks can exchange information. This information may include one or more of the following, for example:

[0129] KPIs that the network guarantees for commonly affected interfaces (e.g., northbound) or relative to other interfaces (e.g., different peer interfaces can have different KPI products)

[0130] • Given a KPI, the range of addresses (eg, routes, such as IP routes) that may be accessible via the affected interface.

[0131] Security context (e.g., provided / required security level)

[0132] Blacklist of services and addresses

[0133] This information exchange can occur at least as part of the attach process, but can also be triggered more frequently. This information can be communicated as signaling information with appropriate functionality on either side of the interface via the signaling plane (control plane) or as part of the data plane (in-band, user plane). Existing protocols that can be used for this data exchange are, for example, OPC-UA or HTTP3 / QUIC.

[0134] Some example embodiments can be described as follows:

[0135] A network of networks comprising multiple data and communication networks (fixed, wireless, optical, public or private, data centers, processing capacity) that provide connectivity to adjacent networks at a given protocol layer x (e.g., OSI layer 1, layer 2, layer 3, e.g., radio, optical, Ethernet, IP), wherein connectivity to networks at the same layer is provided by horizontal interfaces (eastbound / westbound), wherein connectivity to networks and hosts at higher layers (x+1, x+y) is provided via (vertical) northbound interfaces, and wherein connectivity to networks at lower layers (x-1, xy) is provided by (vertical) southbound interfaces,

[0136] Each network delivers the KPIs (key performance parameters, such as bandwidth, latency, operational performance) it can provide via or in conjunction with a given interface (horizontal or vertical),

[0137] The KPI transmitted via or together with the interface is calculated according to the rules based on the capabilities of the network and one or more KPIs received via the interface to the neighboring network.

[0138] Some example embodiments can be described as follows:

[0139] A network of networks comprises a plurality of networks, wherein a selection of networks forms one or more network clusters,

[0140] Each network cluster indicates its KPIs to adjacent networks or network clusters via horizontal and vertical interfaces.

[0141] Some example embodiments can be described as follows:

[0142] a host is connected to a network via a (vertical) southbound interface at layer x, which corresponds to a northbound (vertical) interface at layer x-1 of the network, the network being part of a network of networks, the host having explicit requirements (KPIs) on the network to which it intends to attach, these requirements being generated by an application implemented or running at the host,

[0143] wherein a host selects a network to attach to by comparing its requirements for KPIs with KPIs delivered by the network via or in conjunction with a northbound interface appropriate for the attached host,

[0144] Wherein if no network with a matching KPI is available, the host will modify its own KPI (e.g., downgrade) to an extent that still allows the application to run,

[0145] If there is no available network that matches all KPI parameters, the host will connect to a different network so that the application will be served via different networks, where each network meets the KPIs according to the needs of the application.

[0146] If there is no available network that supports the KPIs of a specific application, the host will notify the application and stop the execution of the application.

[0147] Some example embodiments can be described as follows:

[0148] A network of networks comprising resources from a plurality of networks, wherein each network of the network of networks contributes resources (e.g., unused resources) to a resource pool permanently or for a given period of time, the resources comprising transport (optical, L2, L3 switching or routing), radio access (e.g., 3G / 4G / 5G RAN and core, WiFi), processing / data center, wherein each resource is provided with information allowing access to and configuration of [its use of] said resources,

[0149] The network of networks includes resource pools operated by existing operators,

[0150] The network of networks is operated by agents,

[0151] The network of the network is operated without an agent,

[0152] The network of networks is run by the non-profit altruistic agency NPA.

[0153] Where the network of networks is established / implemented by NPA and at a later point in time is transitioned to agentless mode

[0154] where networks of networks are used to share resources between network providers, allowing for more sustainable resource efficient operations,

[0155] where networks of networks are used to create new communication networks [citizen networks],

[0156] where networks of networks are used to allow efficient resource sharing between network providers and the provision of [new] network services

[0157] Figure 2The relationship between the NoN network and the host is shown: the network has a northbound interface to allow hosts (or other networks) to attach. The network may have a southbound interface and may have eastbound / westbound interfaces (e.g., to adjacent networks at the same layer). The host has a southbound interface (e.g., a radio interface in the example where the host is a UE).

[0158] Figure 3 The diagram shows an example of NoN layering, from the application layer (personal services, processing offload, entertainment) to the different network layers: D1 / D2 for data center layer, M2 / M3 for mobile radio access, T1 / T2 for fixed transmission. NoN can be NoN specific services (e.g. location information, etc., Figure 3 provides an additional layer of service (represented as "6G NoN network service").

[0159] Figure 4 An example of the requirements of a service / application is shown. These requirements can be expressed as KPI values. In this example, the KPIs include bandwidth, latency, and processing power. For example, if a service requires processing offload, its requirements for processing power may be high, and latency may also be an issue (high latency requirements). Therefore, hosts with this service will be attached to these networks, which indicates that data centers with high processing performance can be quickly accessed. Entertainment services may have high bandwidth requirements, and specific 6G NoN service layers may have high requirements for latency (and other aspects). In Figure 4 In the example of (and below), the value of the KPI is indicated as high, medium, or low. However, in some example embodiments, there may be only two values ​​(high / low) or more than three different values ​​(such as numerical values).

[0160] Figure 5 Provides a KPI view of different network layers. Here, three layers are shown: T1 - Fiber (Direct Fiber), T2 - PON Access, and T3 - L2 Switching Access. On the left, a list of KPIs provided by the corresponding network layer is shown. Figure 5 (and the figure below), the table titles "b, p, d, e" represent "bandwidth, processing power, delay, other", corresponding to the Figure 4 However, these KPIs are merely illustrative examples, and in some example embodiments, other KPIs and / or subsets of these KPIs may be used.

[0161] Figure 6 The following diagram illustrates the notation used. The required performance is represented by one of three values ​​(high, medium, and low). Networks indicate the performance they offer using a flag in the corresponding hash, and higher layers (hosts, applications) indicate their requirements using a symbol in the corresponding hash.

[0162] Figure 7 Corresponding to Figure 3 . Figure 7 This diagram shows how a network indicates its capabilities to neighboring networks. For example, network M2 can provide a specific KPI that is based on the KPIs that M2 can provide itself and is moderated by the KPIs inherited from network T1. KPI indications via the vertical interface are represented as square symbols, and KPI indications via the horizontal interface are represented as triangle symbols.

[0163] The network operator contributing resources to the NoN can involve different networks / network layers. For example, in the lower left corner of the figure, the network operator may have a T1 transport network and an M2 radio access network, but only wants to provide M2 ​​access. Therefore, he may want to hide the structure of his network (T1 + M2). In this case, the operator's contribution is the network cluster, not the network (indicated by the dotted line).

[0164] Figure 8 and Figure 9 An example of how hosts access the network based on their KPI requirements is shown. A car, as a host, is shown with three applications having different KPI requirements: engine control (requiring high KPI values), roadside information (requiring medium KPI values), and entertainment (requiring low KPI values). All applications are communicating with peer servers running on the NoN infrastructure. Figure 8 In

[005] , the car is attached to a network that provides the required KPIs (high). The KPIs could be, for example, latency and / or processing power.

[0165] exist Figure 9 In this scenario, the car is already mobile and can only connect to another network (or network cluster) that provides "medium" KPIs. In this case, engine control (a high KPI) cannot be supported via the NoN. Therefore, the car reduces its KPI requirement to "medium" and provides engine control via the local onboard engine control service. However, road information and entertainment can be provided by other networks.

[0166] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The network layer view shows the Figure 8 and Figure 9 The same scenario. Figure 10As shown, before switching to other networks, application servers run on platforms that meet their associated KPIs: The entertainment server (low) runs on the T3 network (e.g., an IP router) because latency may not be a factor. The roadside information server cannot run on the T3 network (e.g., due to latency issues), so it is placed on the T2 network. The engine control service has the highest requirements (in terms of processing performance and latency), so it is located in data center D1, which is directly connected via direct fiber (network T1). The dashed lines indicate network clusters; however, in this example, each network forms its own cluster.

[0167] After switching to other networks with “medium” KPIs, such as Figure 11 As shown in Figure 3, the car is supporting all applications with "high" performance requirements (e.g., engine control) through a local server. This allows it to indicate a "high" flag to the onboard system, as the onboard system can cover all applications. On the other hand, its requirements for the NoN are now reduced to medium (for road information and entertainment). The NoN can meet these requirements via other networks.

[0168] In the following, some business aspects of NoN will be considered.

[0169] A NoN can be built by an incumbent operator that pools resources from other network providers. However, the incentives for both parties to do so may be low: new network services may cannibalize existing businesses, and network providers may be reluctant to provide resources to their competitors.

[0170] Therefore, another participant (agent) can take action by collecting [spare] resources from the network provider and establishing a new network service (such as NoN). The network provider (temporarily) has unused network resources and makes these available to the agent along with information on how to access and manage them. The provisioning and withdrawal of resources will be handled by the agent client / server function, including information on KPIs, availability, etc. In addition, the agent can run its own operation and maintenance system (OAM), which will include resource information (where, how to access) provided by the OAM client function of the contributing network.

[0171] However, the network operator may be less willing to provide resources to agents that can provide contention services. Instead, the network operator may keep some resources unused.

[0172] In a more commercially viable approach, network providers can mutually offer resources without a middleman (agent) using a proxy-less approach. In this example, each network operator that wants to offer resources, as well as each network operator that needs additional resources for its own business, can negotiate resources (give or take) via merchant (give) and consumer (accept) functions. Ideally, these functions are identical across all contributing networks. The resource transaction (RC) between merchant and consumer includes information about access, configuration, and availability (the length of time a resource is available).

[0173] This setup allows resource sharing and thus efficient use of resources.However, this setup does not allow the generation of NoN specific types of services, such as citizen networks.

[0174] A NoN providing resource sharing and NoN specific [citizen] service operations may have the following operational setup

[0175] - No middleman is required for resource sharing

[0176] - Non-specific [citizen] services run by trusted players with no profit of their own. For example, such NPAs could be government, national, or European authorities.

[0177] Non-profit altruistic operators (NPAs) provide NON-specific network services, such as national or pan-European citizen networks, and resource sharing (including resource sharing for citizen networks) can be exchanged through the agentless NON. This setup also allows non-profit organizations to act as incubators to start services and exit once the services are up and running.

[0178] Figure 12 An apparatus according to an example embodiment is shown. The apparatus may be a network or an element thereof. Figure 13 A method according to an example embodiment is shown. Figure 12 The device can perform Figure 13 method, but not limited to this method. Figure 13 The method can be Figure 12 The present invention is performed by a device, but is not limited to being performed by the device.

[0179] The apparatus includes a computing component 110 and an opening component 120. The computing component 110 and the opening component 120 may be a computing component and an opening component, respectively. The computing component 110 and the opening component 120 may be a calculator and an opening device, respectively. The computing component 110 and the opening component 120 may be a computing processor and an opening processor, respectively.

[0180] The calculation unit 110 opens the open capability of the first network (S110). The capability calculation is based on the capability inherent to the first network and the capability of the second network to which the first network is connected.

[0181] The opening component 120 opens the opening capability of the first network at the northbound interface of the first network ( S120 ).

[0182] Figure 14 An apparatus according to an example embodiment is shown. The apparatus may be a host (such as a UE) or an element thereof. Figure 15 A method according to an example embodiment is shown. Figure 14 The device can perform Figure 15 method, but not limited to this method. Figure 15 The method can be Figure 14 The present invention is performed by a device, but is not limited to being performed by the device.

[0183] The device includes a component 210 for reading, a component 220 for checking, and a component 230 for instructing. The component 210 for reading, the component 220 for checking, and the component 230 for instructing can be a reading component, an inspection component, and an instruction component, respectively. The component 210 for reading, the component 220 for checking, and the component 230 for instructing can be a reader, an inspector, and an instruction device, respectively. The component 210 for reading, the component 220 for checking, and the component 230 for instructing can be a reading processor, an inspection processor, and an instruction processor, respectively.

[0184] The reading means 210 reads a capability indication opened by a corresponding network from each of the plurality of networks (S210). The capability indication opened by the corresponding network indicates capabilities that the corresponding network can provide to the host when the host is attached to the corresponding network.

[0185] The component 220 for checking checks, for each of the plurality of networks, whether the capability that the corresponding network can provide matches the capability required by the host (S220). More specifically, the component 220 for checking checks, for each of the plurality of networks, whether the capability that the corresponding network can provide matches the capability required by the application of the host.

[0186] In response to checking that the capabilities provided by the first network among the multiple networks match the capabilities required by the host (more precisely: the host's application; S220 =Yes), the instructing component 230 instructs the host to attach to the first network among the multiple networks ( S230 ).

[0187] Figure 16An apparatus according to an example embodiment is shown. The apparatus includes at least one processor 810, and at least one memory 820 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 810, cause the apparatus to perform at least a method according to at least one of the following figures and associated descriptions: Figure 13 or Figure 15 .

[0188] Some example embodiments are explained for 6G. However, other example embodiments may be used for other 3GPP generations, such as 4G, 5G, 7G, etc.

[0189] A piece of information can be sent from one entity to another in one or more messages. Each of these messages can include other (different) information.

[0190] The names of network elements, network functions, protocols, and methods are based on current standards or proposals. These names are not limiting. For example, in other versions or other technologies, the names of these network elements and / or network functions and / or protocols and / or methods may be different, as long as they provide the corresponding functionality. This also applies to terminals.

[0191] Unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, a statement that two entities are different indicates that they perform different functions. This does not necessarily mean that they are based on different hardware. That is, each entity described in this specification can be based on different hardware, or some or all entities can be based on the same hardware. This does not necessarily mean that they are based on different software. That is, each entity described in this specification can be based on different software, or some or all entities can be based on the same software. Each entity described in this specification can be deployed in the cloud.

[0192] From the above description, it should be clear that the exemplary embodiments provide, for example, a network or its elements (which may or may not actually be integrated into the network), an apparatus embodying the network or its elements, a method for controlling and / or operating the network or its elements, (multiple) computer programs for controlling and / or operating the network or its elements, and a medium that carries such (multiple) computer programs and forms (multiple) computer program products. From the above description, it should be clear that the exemplary embodiments provide, for example, a host (such as a UE) or its elements (which may or may not actually be integrated into the host), an apparatus embodying the host or its elements, a method for controlling and / or operating the host or its elements, (multiple) computer programs for controlling and / or operating the host or its elements, and a medium that carries such (multiple) computer programs and forms (multiple) computer program products.

[0193] As non-limiting examples, implementation of any of the above blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods includes implementation as hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuits or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof. Each entity described in this specification can be implemented in the cloud.

[0194] It should be understood that the foregoing is what is presently considered to be the preferred exemplary embodiments. However, it should be noted that the description of the preferred exemplary embodiments is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0195] Unless otherwise stated, the terms "first X" and "second X" include the following options: "first X" is the same as "second X" and "first X" is different from "second X". As used herein, "at least one of the following: " and "at least one of a list of two or more elements>" and similar expressions (wherein a list of two or more elements is connected by "and" or "or") refer to at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements. The word "or" refers to a non-exclusive "or" unless otherwise stated (e.g., using "otherwise" or "or as an alternative").

Claims

1. An apparatus for connecting to a network, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, wherein when the instructions are executed by the at least one processor, the apparatus at least: calculating the open capabilities of the first network based on capabilities inherent to the first network and capabilities of a second network to which the first network is connected; and At the northbound interface of the first network, the open capability of the first network is opened. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first network is stacked on the second network. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first network and the second network are operated in parallel at the same layer.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first network is capable of providing at least one of the following: - in the case where a first host is attached to said first network, a corresponding communication path from said first host to a second host, or - in case the first host is attached to the first network, the first network and the second network are capable of jointly providing a respective communication path from the first host to a third host through the first network and the second network.

5. An apparatus for connecting to a network, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, wherein when the instructions are executed by the at least one processor, the apparatus at least: reading, from each of a plurality of networks, a first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a first capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host if the first host is attached to the corresponding network; For each of the plurality of networks, checking whether the first capability provided by the corresponding network matches the first capability required by the first application of the first host; as well as In response to checking that the first capability that can be provided by a first network among the multiple networks matches the first capability required by the first application of the first host, instructing the first host to attach to the first network among the multiple networks.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the apparatus to: In response to detecting that the first capability provided by the first network among the multiple networks does not match the first capability required by the first application of the first host, an instruction prohibiting the first host from attaching to the first network among the multiple networks.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 5 and 6, wherein the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the multiple networks matches the first capability required by the first host when the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the multiple networks is equal to or better than the first capability required by the first application of the first host.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions when executed by the at least one processor further causing the apparatus to: monitoring whether the component for checking detects, for each of the plurality of networks, that: the first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match the first capability required by the first application of the first host; In response to monitoring that the component for checking checks, for each of the plurality of networks, that the first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match the first capability required by the first application of the first host, instructing the first host to reduce the required first capability of the first application of the first host to a reduced required first capability, so that the first capability that can be provided by the first network among the plurality of networks matches the reduced required first capability; as well as supervising whether confirmation is received by the first host that the required first capability is reduced to the reduced required first capability; in The instruction for the first host to attach to the first of the plurality of networks is in response to receiving confirmation that the first host reduced the required first capability to the reduced required first capability.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, further cause the apparatus to: In response to supervision that the confirmation is not received, the first host is commanded to stop the first application on the first host that requires at least a portion of the required first capability.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions when executed by the at least one processor further causing the apparatus to: monitoring whether the component for checking detects, for each of the plurality of networks, that: the first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network does not match the first capability required by the first application of the first host; and In response to monitoring that the component for checking checks for each of the multiple networks that the first capability that the corresponding network can provide does not match the required first capability of the first application of the first host, commanding the first host to stop at least part of the first application on the first host that requires the required first capability.

11. The apparatus of any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein the at least one processor, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions when executed by the at least one processor further causing the apparatus to: reading, from each of the plurality of networks, a second capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the second capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a second capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host when the first host is attached to the corresponding network; For each of the plurality of networks, checking whether the second capability provided by the corresponding network matches the second capability required by the second application of the first host; as well as In response to detecting that the second capability that can be provided by the second network among the multiple networks matches the second capability required by the second application of the first host, instructing the first host to attach to the second network among the multiple networks; The second network among the plurality of networks is different from the first network among the plurality of networks.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein for each network in the plurality of networks, the first capability that can be provided by the corresponding network comprises: A communication path is provided from the first host to a second host, with the first host attached to the respective network.

13. A method for connecting to a network, comprising: calculating the open capabilities of the first network based on capabilities inherent to the first network and capabilities of a second network to which the first network is connected; as well as At the northbound interface of the first network, the open capability of the first network is opened.

14. A method for connecting to a network, comprising: reading, from each of a plurality of networks, a first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a first capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host if the first host is attached to the corresponding network; For each of the plurality of networks, checking whether the first capability provided by the corresponding network matches the first capability required by the first application of the first host; as well as In response to checking that the first capability that can be provided by a first network among the multiple networks matches the first capability required by the first application of the first host, instructing the first host to attach to the first network among the multiple networks.

15. A computer-readable medium comprising a set of instructions configured to, when executed on a device, cause the device to: calculating the open capabilities of the first network based on capabilities inherent to the first network and capabilities of a second network to which the first network is connected; and At the northbound interface of the first network, the open capability of the first network is opened.

16. A computer-readable medium comprising a set of instructions configured to, when executed on a device, cause the device to: reading, from each of a plurality of networks, a first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network, wherein the first capability indication exposed by the corresponding network indicates: a first capability that the corresponding network can provide to the first host if the first host is attached to the corresponding network; For each of the plurality of networks, checking whether the first capability provided by the corresponding network matches the first capability required by the first application of the first host; as well as In response to checking that the first capability that can be provided by a first network among the multiple networks matches the first capability required by the first application of the first host, instructing the first host to attach to the first network among the multiple networks.

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