Apparatus, method and computer program

Abstract

A method, an apparatus and a computer program are provided for causing the following to be implemented: exchanging routing information with a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host, where the apparatus is included in a core network function; constructing a routing table, the routing table comprising at least one learned route for routing data traffic to the host using the routing information; and routing the data traffic by configuring the user plane function to use a preferred route of the at least one learned route, such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers for routing the data traffic to the host.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The various examples described in this subject matter disclosure generally relate to apparatuses, methods, and computer programs, and more specifically (but not limited to) apparatuses, methods for apparatuses, and computer programs. Background Technology

[0002] A communication system can be viewed as a facility that enables a communication session between two or more entities (such as communication equipment, base stations, and / or other nodes) by providing carriers between various entities involved in the communication path.

[0003] A communication system can be a wireless communication system. Examples of wireless systems include Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs) that operate based on wireless standards, such as those provided by 3GPP, satellite-based communication systems, and various wireless local area networks, such as wireless local area networks (WLANs). Wireless systems can typically be divided into cells and are therefore often referred to as cellular systems.

[0004] Communication systems and associated equipment operate according to a given set of standards or specifications that define what the various entities associated with the system are allowed to do and how. The communication protocols and / or parameters used for the connection are also typically defined. An example of such a standard is the so-called 5G standard. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising components for performing: exchanging routing information with a plurality of routers on a downlink between an end device and a host, wherein the apparatus is included in a core network function; constructing a routing table including at least one learned route for routing data services to the host using the routing information; and configuring a user plane function to route data services using a preferred route from the at least one learned route, such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers for routing data services to the host.

[0006] Core network functions may include session management functions.

[0007] Components for configuring user plane functions may include components for: using routing tables to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and providing the user plane functions with an indication of how data services will be routed.

[0008] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0009] When the user plane function is configured to interface with multiple routers using multiple corresponding router interfaces, the apparatus may further include components for: reserving a corresponding address for each of the multiple interfaces in the same address subnet; and using the corresponding address for addressing routing information to the multiple routers.

[0010] The device may include components for: using the reserved corresponding address for exchanging routing information with a router associated with the reserved corresponding address, wherein the routing information includes information about the topology of the network on the uplink and / or downlink of the device.

[0011] The apparatus may include components for providing instructions to user plane functions to abandon sending routing advertisements about at least one of the routers.

[0012] Routing information can be directly signaled to at least one terminal device using non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via user plane functions.

[0013] Core network functions may include user plane functions.

[0014] Components for configuring user plane functions may include components for: using a routing table to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the apparatus to use the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to a host.

[0015] The device may include components for providing packet detection rules and / or forwarding action rules to session management functions.

[0016] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0017] Components for configuring user plane functions may include components for: providing a routing table to a session management function; receiving an indication from the session management function of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule based on the routing table; and using the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0018] The apparatus may include a component for receiving instructions from a session management function to obtain an identifier of the interface between the apparatus and at least one router from a time-sensitive network switching function.

[0019] The device may include components for relinquishing the sending of routing announcements about at least one of the routers.

[0020] The device may include a component for receiving instructions to perform the abandoned session management function.

[0021] According to a second aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus including components for performing: an indication of how data traffic received from a user plane function will be routed between the user plane function and a plurality of routers on a downlink located between an end device and a host, wherein the indication includes at least one of: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the apparatus is included in a session management function.

[0022] When the indication includes a routing table, the apparatus may include components for: using the routing table to create at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule indicating how data traffic will be routed; and providing at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule to user plane functions.

[0023] According to a third aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus including components for performing: receiving from a session management function an instruction to abandon signaling a route advertisement regarding at least one of a plurality of routers located on a downlink between an end device and a host; and abandoning signaling the route advertisement, wherein the apparatus is included in a user plane function.

[0024] The apparatus may include components for: receiving an indication from a session management function of how data traffic will be routed, the indication including at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the data traffic to be routed to a host according to at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule.

[0025] According to a fourth aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: exchange routing information with a plurality of routers on a downlink between an end device and a host, wherein the apparatus is included in core network functions; construct a routing table including at least one learned route for routing data services to the host using the routing information; and configure user plane functions to route data services using a preferred route from the at least one learned route, such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers for routing data services to the host.

[0026] Core network functions may include session management functions.

[0027] Configuring user plane functions may include: using routing tables to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and providing the user plane functions with an indication of how data services will be routed.

[0028] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0029] When the user plane function is configured to interface with multiple routers using multiple corresponding router interfaces, the at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: reserving a corresponding address for each of the multiple interfaces in the same address subnet; and using the corresponding address for addressing routing information to the multiple routers.

[0030] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: using the reserved corresponding address for exchanging routing information with a router associated with the reserved corresponding address, wherein the routing information includes information about the topology of the network on the device's uplink and / or downlink.

[0031] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: providing instructions to the user plane function to abandon sending routing advertisements about at least one of the routers.

[0032] Routing information can be directly signaled to at least one terminal device using non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via user plane functions.

[0033] Core network functions may include user plane functions.

[0034] Configuring user plane functionality may include: using a routing table to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the device to use the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0035] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: providing packet detection rules and / or forwarding action rules to the session management function.

[0036] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0037] Configuring user plane functions may include: providing a routing table to a session management function; receiving an indication from the session management function of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule based on the routing table; and using the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0038] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: receiving instructions from the session management function to obtain an identifier of the interface between the device and at least one router from the time-sensitive network switching function.

[0039] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform the action of abandoning the transmission of routing announcements about at least one of the routers.

[0040] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: receiving instructions to perform the abandon session management function.

[0041] According to a fifth aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least perform: an indication of how data traffic received from a user plane function will be routed between the user plane function and a plurality of routers on a downlink located between a terminal device and a host, wherein the indication includes at least one of: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the apparatus is included in a session management function.

[0042] When the indication includes a routing table, the at least one processor can be configured to cause the device to perform: using the routing table to create at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule indicating how data services will be routed; and providing at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule to user plane functions.

[0043] According to a sixth aspect, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: receive from a session management function an instruction to abandon signaling a route advertisement regarding at least one of a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host; and abandon signaling the route advertisement, wherein the apparatus is included in a user plane function.

[0044] The at least one processor can be configured to cause the apparatus to perform: receiving an indication from a session management function of how data traffic will be routed, the indication including at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the data traffic to be routed to a host according to at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule.

[0045] According to a seventh aspect, a method for an apparatus is provided, the method comprising: exchanging routing information with a plurality of routers on a downlink between an end device and a host, wherein the apparatus is included in a core network function; constructing a routing table including at least one learned route for routing data services to the host using the routing information; and configuring a user plane function to route data services using a preferred route from the at least one learned route, such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers for routing data services to the host.

[0046] Core network functions may include session management functions.

[0047] Configuring user plane functions may include: using routing tables to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and providing the user plane functions with an indication of how data services will be routed.

[0048] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0049] When the user plane function is configured to interface with multiple routers using multiple corresponding router interfaces, the method may further include: reserving a corresponding address for each of the multiple interfaces in the same address subnet; and using the corresponding address for addressing routing information to the multiple routers.

[0050] The method may include: using the reserved corresponding address for exchanging routing information with a router associated with the reserved corresponding address, wherein the routing information includes information about the topology of the network on the uplink and / or downlink of the device.

[0051] The method may include providing instructions to the user plane function to abandon sending routing advertisements about at least one of the routers.

[0052] Routing information can be directly signaled to at least one terminal device using non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via user plane functions.

[0053] Core network functions may include user plane functions.

[0054] Configuring user plane functionality may include: using a routing table to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the device to use the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0055] This method may include providing packet detection rules and / or forwarding action rules to the session management function.

[0056] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0057] Configuring user plane functions may include: providing a routing table to a session management function; receiving an indication from the session management function of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule based on the routing table; and using the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0058] The method may include receiving instructions from a session management function to obtain an identifier of the interface between the device and at least one router from a time-sensitive network switching function.

[0059] The method may include abandoning the sending of route advertisements for at least one of the routers.

[0060] The method may include receiving instructions to perform the abandon session management function.

[0061] According to the eighth aspect, a method for an apparatus is provided, the method comprising: receiving an indication of how data traffic received from a user plane function will be routed between the user plane function and a plurality of routers on a downlink located between an end device and a host, wherein the indication includes at least one of: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the apparatus is included in a session management function.

[0062] When the indication includes a routing table, the method may include: using the routing table to create at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule indicating how data services will be routed; and providing at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule to user plane functions.

[0063] According to a ninth aspect, a method including means is provided, the method comprising: receiving from a session management function an instruction to abandon signaling a route advertisement concerning at least one of a plurality of routers located on a downlink between an end device and a host; and abandoning signaling the route advertisement, wherein the means is included in a user plane function.

[0064] The method may include receiving an indication from a session management function that indicates how data services will be routed, the indication including at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the data services to be routed to a host according to at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule.

[0065] According to a tenth aspect, a computer-readable medium including instructions, when executed by an apparatus, causes the apparatus to perform at least the following: exchange routing information with a plurality of routers on a downlink between an end device and a host, wherein the apparatus is included in core network functions; construct a routing table including at least one learned route for routing data services to the host using the routing information; and configure user plane functions to route data services using a preferred route from the plurality of learned routes, such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers for routing data services to the host.

[0066] Core network functions may include session management functions.

[0067] Configuring user plane functions may include: using routing tables to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and providing the user plane functions with an indication of how data services will be routed.

[0068] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0069] When the user plane function is configured to interface with multiple routers using multiple corresponding router interfaces, the device can be made to: reserve a corresponding address for each of the multiple interfaces in the same address subnet; and use the corresponding address for addressing routing information to the multiple routers.

[0070] The device can be made to perform: using the reserved corresponding address for exchanging routing information with a router associated with the reserved corresponding address, wherein the routing information includes information about the topology of the network on the device's uplink and / or downlink.

[0071] The device can be made to perform the following: provide instructions to the user plane function to abandon sending routing advertisements about at least one of the routers.

[0072] Routing information can be directly signaled to at least one terminal device using non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via user plane functions.

[0073] Core network functions may include user plane functions.

[0074] Configuring user plane functionality may include: using a routing table to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the device to use the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0075] The device can be made to perform the following: provide packet detection rules and / or forwarding action rules to the session management function.

[0076] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0077] Configuring user plane functions may include: providing a routing table to a session management function; receiving an indication from the session management function of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule based on the routing table; and using the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0078] The device can be made to perform the following: receive instructions from the session management function to obtain an identifier of the interface between the device and at least one router from the time-sensitive network switching function.

[0079] The device can be made to: abandon sending routing announcements about at least one of the routers.

[0080] The device can be made to receive an instruction to perform the abandon session management function.

[0081] According to the eleventh aspect, a computer-readable medium including instructions, when executed by an apparatus, causes the apparatus to perform at least the following: an indication of how data traffic received from a user plane function will be routed between the user plane function and a plurality of routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the indication includes at least one of: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the apparatus is included in a session management function.

[0082] When the indication includes a routing table, the apparatus can be made to: use the routing table to create at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule indicating how data traffic will be routed; and provide at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule to user plane functions.

[0083] According to a twelfth aspect, a computer-readable medium including instructions, when executed by a device, causes the device to perform at least the following: receiving from a session management function instructions to abandon signaling a route advertisement regarding at least one of a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host; and abandoning signaling the route advertisement, wherein the device is included in a user plane function.

[0084] The apparatus can be made to perform: receive an instruction from a session management function indicating how data traffic will be routed, the instruction including at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and cause the data traffic to be routed to a host according to at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule.

[0085] According to a thirteenth aspect, a computer program product stored on a medium is provided, which enables a device to perform any of the methods described herein.

[0086] According to the fourteenth aspect, an electronic device is provided that may include means as described herein.

[0087] According to the fifteenth aspect, a chipset is provided that may include means as described herein.

[0088] According to one aspect, a non-transient computer-readable medium is provided comprising program instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the method according to any one of the preceding aspects.

[0089] Many different embodiments have been described above. It should be understood that further embodiments may be provided by combination of any two or more of the embodiments described above. Attached Figure Description

[0090] Some examples will now be described illustratively only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0091] Figure 1 This shows a schematic representation of a 5G system;

[0092] Figure 2 A schematic representation of a network device is shown;

[0093] Figure 3 A schematic representation of the user equipment is shown;

[0094] Figure 4 The example network architecture is illustrated.

[0095] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the group detection rules;

[0096] Figure 6A The example signaling is illustrated;

[0097] Figure 6B The example network architecture is illustrated.

[0098] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the group detection rules;

[0099] Figure 8A The example signaling is illustrated;

[0100] Figure 8B The example network architecture is illustrated; and

[0101] Figures 9 to 11 Example operations that can be performed by the apparatus described herein are illustrated. Detailed Implementation

[0102] The following describes operations that can be performed related to routing data over a network. In particular, the following considers routing services over a core network, such as the 3GPP 5G core network and / or future 3GPP core networks (e.g., 6G and above).

[0103] The following describes the operation where services are being routed from downstream of the core network to at least one user equipment (UE) outside the core network (such as at least one UE configured to operate as a router). The following also describes the mechanisms for enabling core network functions (e.g., Session Management Function (SMF) and / or User Plane Function (UPF)) to perform router functions for determining routes for downstream service routing. Therefore, core network functions can appear as routers to routers outside the core network, including downstream routers. This allows downstream routers (such as UE routers) to learn the overall topology of the IP router network located upstream of the core network.

[0104] To achieve this, the core network functions described herein are configured to act as routers by obtaining routing information from UE routers and by determining routing tables used to route services to hosts through at least one of these external routers. The core network functions may also relinquish (or cause to relinquish) the sending of route advertisements about IP networks located upstream and / or downstream of the core network functions.

[0105] Further explanation of how this can be achieved is provided below.

[0106] In the following examples, certain aspects are explained with reference to devices typically configured to communicate via wireless cellular systems and mobile communication systems serving such mobile communication devices. For the sake of brevity, such aspects are described below with reference to 5G wireless communication systems. However, it should be understood that such aspects are not limited to 5G wireless communication systems and, for example, can be applied to other wireless communication systems (e.g., current 6G proposals, IEEE 802.11, etc.).

[0107] Before describing the example in detail, refer to Figure 1 Briefly explain some aspects of 5G wireless communication systems.

[0108] The 3GPP standard defines a service-based architecture in 5G, which is expected to be used in 6G and above. This service-based architecture uses a modular framework in which common applications can be deployed using components from different sources and / or vendors. 3GPP has released multiple releases (Rel) to define operational communication protocols related to communication networks.

[0109] Figure 1A schematic representation of a 5G system (5GS) 100 is shown. The 5GS may include a user equipment (UE) 102 (which may also be referred to as a communication device or terminal), a 5G access network (AN) (which may be a 5G radio access network (RAN) or any other type of 5G AN, such as a non-3GPP interoperability function (N3IWF) / trusted non-3GPP gateway function (TNGF) for untrusted / trusted non-3GPP access, or a wired access gateway function (W-AGF) for wired access) 104, a 5G core (5GC) 106, one or more application functions (AF) 108, and one or more data networks (DN) 110.

[0110] A 5G RAN may include one or more gNodeB (gNB) distributed unit functions connected to one or more gNodeB (gNB) unit functions. The RAN may include one or more access nodes.

[0111] 5GC 106 may include one or more Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) 112, one or more Session Management Functions (SMF) 114, one or more Authentication Server Functions (AUSF) 116, one or more Unified Data Management (UDM) Functions 118, one or more User Plane Functions (UPF) 120, one or more Unified Data Repository (UDR) Functions 122, one or more Network Repository Functions (NRF) 128, and / or one or more Network Open Functions (NEF) 124. The role of the NEF is to securely open network services (such as voice, data connectivity, billing, subscriber data, etc.) to third parties. Although NRF 128 is depicted as having no interface, it should be understood that this is for clear reasons, and NRF 128 may have multiple interfaces with other network functions. Similarly, other network functions of 5GC 106 may include... Figure 1 One or more additional interfaces between them that are not described in the text.

[0112] In 5GS, the SMF (Session Management Function) can enforce the direction of traffic through the interface between the UPF and at least one router. This can be performed as part of the Packet Forwarding Control Protocol (PFCP), a 3GPP protocol used on the interface between the SMF and UPF, and specified in TS 29.244. The SMF can use the PFCP session to create at least one Packet Detection Rule (PDR) in the PFCP session context corresponding to the PDU session of the terminal device through the interface between the SMF and UPF (also referred to herein as the N4 interface). The PDR is used to identify traffic destined for the terminal device and associate the associated traffic with a Forwarding Action Rule (FAR).

[0113] FAR is a set of instructions that defines how a network switch will handle packets. FAR maps packet attributes to specific actions, such as forwarding, dropping, and / or modifying packets.

[0114] Figure 5 The example group detection rule (PDR) is illustrated.

[0115] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a PDR information element, which includes multiple fields, including an N4 session identifier, a rule identifier, the action to be performed on the rule, and a group detection information element. Figure 5 The diagram also illustrates packet detection information elements, which include indications of the source interface and framing routing information.

[0116] Figure 2 Examples of control devices for communication systems are shown, such as those coupled to and / or used to control access systems, such as RAN nodes (e.g., base stations, gNBs), central units of cloud architectures, or core network nodes; mobility management entities (MMEs) or serving gateways (S-GWs); scheduling entities (e.g., spectrum management entities); or servers or hosts (e.g., managed network repository functions (NRFs), network data analytics functions (NWDAFs), access and mobility management functions (AMFs), session management functions (SMFs), unified data management / unified data repository (UDMs / UDRs), etc.). The control device may be integrated with or located externally to nodes or modules of the core network or radio access network (RAN). In some examples, the base station includes a separate control device unit or module. In other examples, the control device may be another network element, such as a radio network controller or a spectrum controller. Control device 200 may be configured to provide control over communications within the service area of ​​the system. Device 200 includes at least one memory 201, at least one data processing unit 202, 203, and an input / output interface 204. Through this interface, control device 200 can be coupled to the receiver and transmitter of the device. The receiver and / or transmitter can be implemented as a wireless front end or a remote wireless head end. For example, control device 200 or processor 201 can be configured to execute appropriate software code to provide control functions. The reference to "code" herein should be understood as referring to software code, and vice versa.

[0117] Now refer to Figure 3 A more detailed description of the example wireless communication device, Figure 3A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a communication device 300 is shown. In some examples, such a communication device may be referred to as a user equipment (UE) or terminal. However, a suitable mobile communication device can be provided by any device capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals. Non-limiting and illustrative examples include mobile stations (MS) or mobile devices, such as mobile phones or so-called “smartphones,” vehicles, robots, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), computers equipped with wireless interface cards or other wireless interface facilities (such as USB dongles), personal data assistants (PDAs), or tablet computers equipped with wireless communication capabilities, or any combination of these devices. Mobile communication devices can provide, for example, communication for carrying data such as voice, email, text messages, multimedia, etc. Therefore, users can be given and provided with a variety of services via their communication devices. Non-limiting and illustrative examples of these services include two-way or multiplexed calls, data communication or multimedia services, or simply access to data communication network systems (such as the Internet). Users can also be provided with broadcast or multicast data. Non-limiting and illustrative examples of content include downloads, television and radio programs, videos, announcements, various alarms and / or other information.

[0118] For example, a wireless communication device can be implemented as a mobile device or a fixed device, or a combination thereof. A mobile device is a device that is not fixed to a specific location, while a fixed device can be configured to be fixed to a specific location (or detachably attached to it). A wireless device can communicate using human interaction or without human interaction. As described herein, the term UE or “user” is used to refer to any type of wireless communication device.

[0119] Wireless device 300 can receive signals via air or wireless interface 307 through appropriate means for receiving, and can transmit signals via appropriate means for transmitting wireless signals. Figure 3 In the diagram, the transceiver device is schematically represented by block 306. The transceiver device 306 can be provided, for example, via a wireless component and an associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement can be located inside or outside the wireless device.

[0120] Wireless devices are typically provided with at least one data processing entity 301, at least one memory 302, and other possible components 303 for software and hardware-assisted execution of tasks configured to be performed, including controlling access to and communication with access systems and other communication devices. Data processing, storage devices, and other related control devices may be provided on a suitable circuit board and / or in a chipset. This feature is indicated by reference numeral 304. Users can control the operation of the wireless device through a suitable user interface such as a keypad 305, voice commands, a touch-sensitive screen or touchpad, or combinations thereof. A display 308, a speaker, and a microphone may also be provided. Furthermore, wireless communication devices may include suitable connectors (wired or wireless) for connecting to other devices and / or for connecting external accessories (e.g., hands-free devices).

[0121] As mentioned above, the following pertains to the user plane functions of the 5GS (such as those referenced above). Figure 1 The scenario described above (where the interface can be connected to multiple routers) is an example. This interface between the user plane function and the router is labeled as the N6 interface. This arrangement is referenced... Figure 4 To illustrate.

[0122] Figure 4 The 5GS 401, including SMF 402 and UPF 403 (as shown in the reference above), is illustrated. Figure 1 (As described above). SMF 402 and UPF 403 are connected via the N4 interface. UPF 403 is connected to multiple UE routers 404 via corresponding Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session interfaces. Multiple UE routers are configured to route communication between UPF 403 and host 405 (or some other endpoint) via network 406. UE routers can run dynamic routing protocols and can report routing information (e.g., link state, database descriptors). Therefore, considerations of the Internet Protocol (IP) subnet behind the UE routers can be translated into several alternative routes on the downlink to the same IP host / prefix. This raises a routing problem: which best / shortest downlink route should be selected for IP packets destined for the indicated host / prefix?

[0123] UPF is also configured to interface with external router 407 using interface N6. The external router uses router advertisements to announce its availability. In this example, the UE router is considered to be in the downlink direction, and the external router 407 is considered to be in the uplink direction.

[0124] Consider a 5G system (5GS), and assume that there are one or more IP subnets behind the UE router, such as Figure 4 As shown.

[0125] In 5GS, framing routing is used, making a range of IPv4 addresses or IPv6 prefixes (typically all addresses with a common prefix, as is the case with regular IP routing) reachable through a single PDU session.

[0126] Framing routing information is configured in the User Plane Function (UPF) via the N4 interface using the Packet Forwarding Control Protocol (PFCP) by the Session Management Function (SMF).

[0127] Framing routing information may include, for example Figure 5 The shown is a part of the Packet Detection Rule (PDR) Information Element (IE). Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the information that can be included in the PDR.

[0128] Framing routes can also be advertised by the UPF to the 5G Connected Data Network (DN) via N6, so the DN router can know the routes / prefixes that are reachable via the UPF.

[0129] Currently, 5GS does not provide a mechanism to use routing information sent by the UE router to learn the topology behind the UE and configure downlink routes accordingly. Selecting the shortest, optimal, and / or working downlink routes becomes critical because some routes may become congested and / or unavailable, or the links behind them may fail.

[0130] Furthermore, while framed routes are advertised by the UPF via N6, this advertisement may be unnecessary if the DN router can learn routes as part of the overall routing process (e.g., including redundant or duplicate data). Currently, 5GS does not provide a method to instruct the UPF not to advertise framed routes that can be learned by the DN router as part of the routing protocol process.

[0131] In summary, 5GS does not specify a mechanism for exchanging routing information with the UE router via PDU sessions and learning topology or reachability information for the network behind the UE router. Furthermore, 5GS does not provide a mechanism for instructing the UPF not to advertise framed routes that can be learned by the N6 router as part of its routing protocol learning process. This could lead to inefficient service routing.

[0132] The following aims to address at least one of the problems mentioned above.

[0133] Specifically, the following describes the mechanism that enables core network functions to exchange routing information with at least one UE router to learn the IP reachability or topology of the UE IP router network and the topology of the IP router network upstream of the UE and 5GS. Therefore, both the 5GS and the UE router will be able to learn the underlying topology.

[0134] The following also describes the mechanism for updating downlink routing configurations in the 5GS using the previously determined UE IP router network topology. The UE router and any routers behind it will also be able to configure uplink routing configurations toward the 5GS.

[0135] The following also describes the mechanism used to control the advertising of framed routes to data network routers via N6 when updating downlink routing configuration in the 5GS. This becomes crucial when the 5GS acts as an IP router and route discovery is part of the routing protocol learning process. For example, some routing protocols allow learning the entire topology of a routing area, meaning that any data network router running such a protocol can discover the topology or reachability of the IP (sub)network behind the UE network if the data network router, 5GS router, and UE router all belong to the same area.

[0136] Typically, the following describes an action that enables at least one network function in a 5GS to perform at least one action, making the 5GS appear to act as a router in the same way as a UE router or any other IP router. In other words, the 5GS will process IP routing messages and generate its own IP routing messages, rather than transparently passing IP routing messages through the 5GS. Therefore, the 5GS can be able to exchange routing messages with the UE router, learn the network topology or reachability behind the UE router, and update / control downlink routes accordingly.

[0137] The granularity of a 5GS router can be per UPF.

[0138] The 5GS can be configured to act as an IP router, and the SMF and / or UPF can be configured to perform routing protocols. This will be described in more detail below. Figures 6A to 7 This is the first example involving the SMF in 5GS implementing a routing protocol (e.g., the routing protocol is implemented at the control plane level), and Figures 8A to 8B The UPF in 5GS is involved in implementing routing protocols (e.g., the routing protocol is implemented at the user plane level).

[0139] In the first example, the SMF obtains routing information from at least one UE router (e.g., directly via non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via the UPF) and uses the obtained routing information to determine a routing table for routing data downstream to hosts via at least one UE router. The SMF can use the determined routing table to configure at least one PDR and / or FAR at the UPF to enable the UPF to route data traffic downstream according to PDR and / or FAR instructions. Determining the corresponding PDR and / or FAR using the determined routing table can only be performed if the SMF determines that the corresponding PDR and / or FAR will be associated with at least one PDR and / or FAR currently used by the UPF. The SMF can also cause the UPF to waive signaling of route advertisements regarding the router network.

[0140] In the second example, the UPF obtains routing information from at least one UE router and uses the obtained routing information to determine a routing table for routing data downstream to the host via at least one UE router. The UPF can use the determined routing table to configure at least one PDR and / or FAR at the UPF to route data traffic downstream according to PDR and / or FAR instructions, and / or the UPF can provide the determined routing table to the SMF to configure at least one PDR and / or FAR at the UPF to route data traffic downstream according to PDR and / or FAR instructions. In both cases, the UPF can be instructed to refrain from signaling route advertisements about the router network. Determining the corresponding PDR(s) and / or FAR(s) using the constructed routing table can only be performed if the UPF and / or SMF determine that the corresponding PDR and / or FAR differs from at least one PDR and / or FAR currently used by the UPF.

[0141] Figure 6A The diagram illustrates signaling that can be executed between at least one UE router 601, UPF 602, and SMF 603.

[0142] During 6001, SMF 603 determined the routing protocol to be implemented. For example, the SMF may determine to reserve IP addresses for each interface toward at least one UE that is in the same subnet as each UE.

[0143] In other words, the SMF 603 can treat a PDU session as an interface and thus determine the interface ID used for that PDU session. For each PDU session, the SMF 603 can reserve an IP address corresponding to the IP address in the same subnet as the IP address assigned to the UE using that PDU session. If the UE obtains its IP address via Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), the SMF can know the IP address and IP network mask of each UE based on current specifications. If the UE obtains its IP address via Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling, the SMF can also send the IP network mask along with the IP address in the NAS message. The interface ID of the PDU session can be mapped by the SMF to a standard interface name (therefore, for example, it can be understood by routing protocols).

[0144] From 6001, message passing can proceed to 6002 or 6003, both of which involve at least one router 601 and SMF 603 exchanging routing information between them.

[0145] 6002 relates to an example in which at least one of the routers 601 and SMF 603 exchange routing information between them using non-access stratum (NAS) signaling.

[0146] During 6002, SMF 603 exchanges signaling with at least one router 601. This signaling may involve the SMF exchanging signaling with at least one UE via Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling to reserve an address (e.g., an IP address) for each interface. When sending such signaling, SMF 603 can use at least one reserved IP address as the source. From 6002, this mechanism progresses to 6006.

[0147] 6003 to 6005 involve signaling in which routing information exchanged between the SMF and at least one UE router is exchanged using the user plane.

[0148] Sections 6003 to 6004 involve SMF 603 configuring UPF 602 to forward routing messages between at least one UE router 601 and SMF 603. In this example, UPF 602 does not extract routing information from these routing messages.

[0149] During 6003, SMF 603 signals to UPF 602. This signaling may include a request for UPF 602 to forward routing messages received between at least one UE router and SMF 603 (e.g., both uplink and downlink directions between SMF 603 and at least one UE router 601). This signaling may include a Packet Forwarding Control Protocol (PFCP) Session Management Request message. In other words, SMF 603 can use PFCP session management to configure UPF 602 to forward routing messages (in both directions) between SMF and UE routers.

[0150] The SMF's selection of the UPF as the target UE for forwarding its routing messages can be based on, for example, the capabilities reported by the UE's router. For instance, only those UEs that report having the capability to support IP routing messages can be selected to exchange routing messages with the SMF.

[0151] The following is an example mechanism for configuring UPF.

[0152] First, the SMF can configure the UPF to route messages from the N3 interface (e.g., the interface between the UPF and the gNB / access node) in the SMF direction. In this example, the SMF configures the UPF to forward routed messages received from a PDU session to the SMF. This can be achieved by configuring at least one PDR in the PFCP session context corresponding to the target PDU session (interface), which has at least a source interface information element set to "access side" and a packet filter set information element identifying the routed message. The SMF can also associate the PDR with at least a FAR, which has at least an action information element set to "forwarding" and a destination interface information element set to "control plane function side".

[0153] As a second part, the SMF can configure the UPF to route messages in the opposite direction (e.g., from the SMF to the N3 interface). In this second feature, the SMF can configure the UPF to forward routed messages received on the N4 interface to the PDU session corresponding to the N4 interface on which the message was received. This can be achieved, for example, by configuring at least one PDR in the PFCP session context corresponding to the target PDU session, the PDR having at least a source interface information element set to "control plane function side" and (control plane tunnel information element, set to identify the tunnel endpoint identifier (TEID) corresponding to the target PDU session; or packet filter set information element, which identifies the routed message to be sent through the target PDU session). The SMF also associates the PDR with at least a FAR, the FAR having at least an action information element set to "forward" and a destination interface information element set to "access side".

[0154] During period 6004, UPF 602 signals to SMF 603. This signaling may include an indication that UPF 602 has successfully applied the configuration received during period 6003. This signaling may include a PFCP session management response message.

[0155] During 6005, UPF 602 uses the configuration of 6002 to transparently exchange routing information messages between at least one UE router 601 and SMF 603.

[0156] Therefore, during 6005, the SMF exchanges routing messages with the UE router via the configured UPF. When the SMF intends to send a routing message to at least one router via a PDU session, the SMF can use the reserved IP address of the corresponding PDU session as the source IP address in the packet header. When the SMF intends to send a routing message to at least one UE router via a PDU session, the SMF can encapsulate it in a G-PDU using the Tunnel Endpoint Identifier (TEID) corresponding to the target PDU session. When the SMF receives a routing message, it can determine the corresponding PDU session based on the TEID. Therefore, the UPF in 6005 forwards routing messages between the SMF and the corresponding PDU session / interface.

[0157] The signaling progresses from 6005 to 6006.

[0158] During 6006, SMF 603 uses the information received during 6002 and / or 6005 to construct the routing table.

[0159] In other words, during 6006, the SMF constructs a learned routing table based on routing messages exchanged between the SMF and at least one UE router. How the SMF constructs the routing table can depend on the IP routing protocol supported by the SMF. Without loss of generality, Table 1 illustrates one type of routing table that can be constructed by the SMF 603. Table 1: Potential routing tables constructed from network functions in 5GS

[0160] Versions 6007 through 6009 involve SMF 603 using learned routing information and routing tables to update the configuration of UPF 602.

[0161] During 6007, SMF 603 transforms the constructed routing table of 6007 into a PDR and / or FAR for forwarding IP services on the uplink (e.g., N3->N6, where the N3 interface is the interface between the UPF and the access network node (e.g., gNB)). The transformation step of determining the corresponding PDR(s) and / or FAR(s) using the constructed routing table can only be performed if the UPF and / or SMF determine that the corresponding PDR and / or FAR will be different from at least one PDR and / or FAR currently used by the UPF. As part of this transformation, SMF 603 can determine whether the UPF wants to advertise framed routes.

[0162] During 6008, SMF 603 signals to UPF 602. This signaling can be used to configure UPF 602 using the PDR and / or FAR acquired during 6007. This signaling may include, for example, a PFCP session management request message.

[0163] For example, the signaling of 6008 may include the following settings: the source interface information element of the PDR is set to "N6-LAN", the packet filter set information element and / or framed routing information element of the PDR is based on the destination field of the routing table, the action information element of the FAR associated with the PDR is set to "forwarding", and the destination interface information element of the FAR associated with the PDR is set to "access side".

[0164] In Rel.18, when framed routing information is configured by the SMF, the UPF always advertises framed routes to the N6 interface. In contrast, if framed routing is used, the following example makes this advertisement optional. More specifically, the SMF can indicate in the PDR whether to advertise routes based on the learned and constructed routing tables from the UE. Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the mechanism used to do this, in which a notification indicator associated with framing information is included in the PDR, indicating whether the UPF continues or abandons signaling notifications about the interface associated with the PDR.

[0165] During 6009, UPF 602 sends a signaling notification to SMF 603. This signaling indicates that UPF 602 has successfully applied the configuration(s) sent during 6008. This signaling can be included in the PFCP session management response message.

[0166] During 6010, the UPF abandonment announcement is indicated in the 6008 signaling as an unannounced framed route.

[0167] During 6011, the data network (not shown) sends downlink traffic to at least one UE router 601 via the configured UPF 602.

[0168] When 6011 is completed, the network can be as follows: Figure 6B As shown.

[0169] Figure 6B A 5GS 600 is shown, comprising an SMF 603, a UPF 602, and at least one UE router 601. The SMF 603 and UPF 602 are interconnected via multiple N4 interfaces 604. The UPF 602 is connected to at least one UE router 601 via a corresponding N6 interface 605. At least one UE router 601 is connected to a host 606 via a network 607. The UPF 602 is also connected to at least one router 608 in the uplink direction.

[0170] exist Figure 6A In this example signaling, the 5GS acts as an IP router by implementing a routing protocol in the SMF.

[0171] In other words, the SMF implements the routing protocol (software) and exchanges routing messages with at least one router directly (e.g., using NAS signaling) or indirectly (e.g., via IP packets on the user plane, where the SMF configures the UPF to forward IP routing protocol packets / messages between the SMF and the UE router). In the latter example, IP routing protocol packets / messages are transparently sent via the UPF, while the SMF intercepts and processes the content of these routing messages and generates IP routing protocol packets / messages to be sent to the UE router.

[0172] UPF is configured to forward IP routing protocol messages between SMF and at least one UE router. The Tunnel Endpoint Identifier (TEID) can be used by both SMF and UPF to match received / sent routing messages with the corresponding interface.

[0173] SMF learns the IP reachability or topology behind the UE router based on the IP routing messages exchanged between SMF and UE router. SMF constructs the learned IP routing table and uses it to configure UPF to forward IP services on the downlink.

[0174] The SMF determines whether a framed route should be advertised by the UPF and configures the UPF accordingly with an extended PDR. The UPF can route messages and / or advertise IP routes based on the configured PDR and / or FAR.

[0175] Figures 8A to 8B The illustration shows a signaling operation that can be performed in another example, where the routing protocol is implemented in UPF.

[0176] Figure 8AThe diagram illustrates signaling that can be executed between at least one UE router 801, UPF 802, and SMF 803.

[0177] During 8001, UPF 802 implements the routing protocol. In other words, UPF 802 reserves IP addresses for each interface in the same subnet as each UE located with at least one UE router 801. For each PDU session, the UPF knows the identifier of the interface for that PDU session and reserves the IP address in the same subnet as the IP address assigned to the UE using that PDU session. Optionally, the UPF can obtain the IP address and mask for each UE from the SMF. The interface ID can be mapped by the UPF to a standard interface name (therefore, for example, the interface name used can be understood by the routing protocol).

[0178] During 8002, SMF 803 signals to UPF 802. This signaling can be used to configure the UPF to terminate routing protocol messages received from at least one UE router 801 via a PDU session. These routing messages will not be forwarded and will therefore be processed by the UPF. This signaling can be included in the PFCP association establishment / update process. How the SMF selects the UE routers to which its UPF will be configured to terminate its routing messages can be based on their reported capabilities (e.g., the selected UE routers may only include those UEs that have reported the capability to support IP routing messages).

[0179] When the SMF selects which UPFs to initiate and terminate routing messages, the SMF can execute 8002 signaling. This selection can be based on, for example, the UE router capabilities known to the SMF. When there are UPFs with routing protocol capabilities, the SMF can determine which UPFs will execute the routing protocol and terminate the routing messages (e.g., based on the UE router capabilities).

[0180] During 8003, the UPF 802 and at least one UE router 801 exchange routing protocol messages. The UPF can use the reserved IP address of the corresponding PDU session as the source IP address in the packet header to address the UPF's routing protocol messages.

[0181] During 8004, UPF 802 uses the routing messages exchanged between the UPF and at least one UE router during 8003 to construct a routing table. The routing table can be as discussed above with respect to Table 1. From 8004, signaling proceeds to 8005 or 8008.

[0182] Both signaling from 8005 and 8008 involve the UPF obtaining the PDR and / or FAR for routing traffic based on the routing table constructed in 8004. However, signaling from 8005 involves the UPF constructing the PDR and / or FAR and notifying the SMF of these PDRs and / or FARs, while signaling from 8008 involves the SMF using the routing table constructed in 8004 to construct the PDR and / or FAR and notifying the UPF of these PDRs and / or FARs.

[0183] During 8005, UPF 802 transforms the constructed routing table into a PDR and / or FAR for routing data services on the downlink (e.g., from interface N6 to interface N3). The determination of the corresponding PDR and / or FAR using the constructed routing table can only be performed if the UPF and / or SMF determine that the corresponding PDR and / or FAR will differ from at least one PDR and / or FAR currently used by the UPF.

[0184] Example implementations may include setting the source interface information element of the PDR to "N6-LAN", the packet filter set information element and / or framed routing information element of the PDR to the destination field of the routing table in Table 1, setting the action information element of the FAR associated with the PDR to "forwarding", and setting the destination interface information element of the FAR associated with the PDR to "access side".

[0185] As mentioned above, in Rel.18, the UPF always advertises framed routes to the N6 interface. However, in the signaling described here, this is optional. In other words, when using framed routes, the UPF can indicate in the PDR whether to advertise them. This can be explained as above regarding... Figure 7 As discussed, the notification indicator associated with the framing information is used in the PDR.

[0186] During 8006, UPF 802 signals to SMF 803. This signaling may include indications of the PDR and / or FAR constructed by the UPF during 8005. This signaling may be included in PFCP signaling. For example, this signaling may be included in PFCP session management request signaling. It can be useful for the SMF to have the PDR and / or FARS obtained by the UPF because the SMF is responsible for managing all sessions under its control, and the SMF can use the provided information to better consistent and / or treat its sessions fairly.

[0187] During 8007, SMF 803 sends a signal to UPF 802. This signaling can instruct the SMF to acknowledge the signaling from 8006. This signaling can also indicate that the SMF has stored PDR and / or FAR signaling during 8006. This signaling proceeds from 8007 to 8013.

[0188] During 8008, UPF 802 signals to SMF 803. This signaling may include the routing table constructed during 8004. This signaling may include PFCP signaling. This signaling may include a PFCP session management request.

[0189] During 8009, SMF 803 signals to UPF 802. This signaling may include an indication that the signaling from 8008 has been received. This signaling may include a PFCP session management response.

[0190] During 8010, SMF 603 transforms the routing table constructed in 8008 into a PDR and / or FAR for forwarding IP services on the uplink (e.g., N3->N6). Determining the corresponding PDR and / or FAR using the constructed routing table can only be performed if the UPF and / or SMF determine that the corresponding PDR and / or FAR will differ from at least one PDR and / or FAR currently used by the UPF. As part of this transformation, SMF 803 can determine whether the UPF wants to advertise framed routes.

[0191] During 8011, SMF 803 signals to UPF 802. This signaling can be used to configure UPF 802 with the PDR and / or FAR acquired during 8007. This signaling may include, for example, a PFCP session management request message.

[0192] For example, 8011 signaling may include the following: the source interface information element of the PDR is set to "N6-LAN", the packet filter set information element and / or framed routing information element of the PDR are based on the destination field of the routing table, the action information element of the FAR associated with the PDR is set to "forwarding", and the destination interface information element of the FAR associated with the PDR is set to "access side".

[0193] In Rel.18, when framed routing information is configured by the SMF, the UPF always advertises framed routes to the N6 interface. In contrast, if framed routing is used, enabling this advertisement is optional in the following example. More specifically, the SMF can indicate in the PDR whether or not to advertise routes. Figure 7The diagram illustrates the mechanism used to do this, in which a notification indicator associated with framing information is included in the PDR, indicating whether the UPF continues or abandons signaling notifications about the interface associated with the PDR.

[0194] During 8012, UPF 802 signals to SMF 803. This signaling acknowledges the signaling of 8011. This signaling can instruct UPF 802 to be configured to apply the PDR and / or FAR signaling during 8011. This signaling can be included in the PFCP session management response.

[0195] During 8013, the UPF abandonment announcement is indicated as an unannounced framed route in the 8011 or 8005 signaling.

[0196] During 8014, UPF 802 sends downlink traffic to at least one UE router 801 according to the PDR and / or FAR configured in 8011 and / or 8005.

[0197] When 8014 is completed, the network can be as follows: Figure 8B As shown.

[0198] Figure 8B A 5GS 800 is shown, comprising an SMF 803, a UPF 802, and at least one UE router 801. The SMF 803 and UPF 802 are connected to each other via a single N4 interface 804. The UPF 802 is connected to at least one UE router 801 via a corresponding N6 interface 805. At least one UE router 801 is connected to a host 806 via a network 607. The UPF 802 is also connected to at least one router 808 in the uplink direction.

[0199] exist Figure 8A In this example signaling, the 5GS acts as an IP router by implementing a routing protocol in the UPF.

[0200] In other words, the UPF implements a routing protocol (software) and is configured to terminate IP routing messages. These messages will not be forwarded to the SMF or external routers, but will be processed by the UPF (e.g., through the routing protocol implemented in the UPF). The UPF also generates IP routing protocol messages that are sent to the UE router.

[0201] The UPF exchanges IP routing messages with the UE router to learn the topology and construct routing tables. Based on the constructed routing tables, the UPF will be configured to forward IP services (on the downlink).

[0202] In this example, two options are considered for generating the PDR and / or FAR. In the first option, the UPF itself transforms the routing table into a configuration for forwarding data services and notifies the SMF. In the second option, the UPF notifies the SMF of the routing table and receives from the SMF the configuration for forwarding IP services. The determination of the corresponding PDR and / or FAR using the constructed routing table can only be performed if the UPF and / or SMF determine that the corresponding PDR and / or FAR will differ from at least one PDR and / or FAR currently used by the UPF.

[0203] Figures 9 to 11 The illustration shows operations that can be performed by means of means for causing at least one of the features described above to be executed. Therefore, it can be understood that at least one feature mentioned below can find a functional correspondence with the features described above, and the examples provided above can provide examples of how the following can be implemented.

[0204] Figure 9 The illustration depicts operations that can be performed by a device. The device may include core network functions (e.g., implemented by at least one device that causes the core network functions to be performed). The device may include an SMF. The device may include a UPF. The device may be combined as described above. Figure 2 The above is to achieve this.

[0205] During 901, the device exchanges routing information with multiple routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the device is included in the core network function. The terminal device may include the UE. The terminal device may be combined as described above. Figure 3 As described above. Typically, routing information can include information that can be used to select routes to a target destination in a cost-effective manner. For example, routing information can include a set of routes and the associated cost of each route.

[0206] During period 902, the device constructs a routing table, which includes at least one learned route for routing data services to hosts using routing information. The at least one learned route can be obtained through the exchanged routing information.

[0207] During 903, the device configures its user plane function to route data traffic using a preferred route, such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from among multiple routers to route data traffic to a host. The preferred route can be a route selected from a routing table using at least one criterion. This criterion can be any criterion used by the router to select a route (e.g., minimum hop count, shortest distance, etc.). Typically, this criterion associates each possible route under consideration with a corresponding associated cost. The device then determines the preferred route to the target destination as the route associated with the minimum cost.

[0208] The following examples illustrate core network functions, including session management.

[0209] SMF can at least determine PDR and / or FAR.

[0210] For example, configuring user plane functions may include: using a routing table to create an indication of how data traffic will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and providing an indication of how data traffic will be routed to user plane functions. UPF can then use this indication to route data traffic to hosts.

[0211] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0212] When the user plane function is configured to interface with multiple routers using multiple corresponding router interfaces, the device can also: reserve a corresponding address for each of the multiple interfaces in the same addressing subnet; and use the corresponding address to address routing information to the multiple routers. The device can use the reserved corresponding address to exchange routing information with the router associated with the reserved corresponding address, wherein the routing information includes information about the topology of the network on the device's uplink and / or downlink.

[0213] The device can provide instructions to the user plane function to abandon sending routing advertisements about at least one of the routers.

[0214] Routing information can be directly signaled to at least one terminal device using non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via user plane functions.

[0215] When the core network functions include user plane functions, the following characteristics may exist.

[0216] Configuring user plane functionality may include: using a routing table to create an indication of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the device to use the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0217] This device can provide packet detection rules and / or forwarding action rules to the session management function.

[0218] Using routing tables to create indications of how data services will be routed can be performed by determining that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule currently configured at the user plane function for routing data services in the routing table must be changed.

[0219] Configuring user plane functions may include: providing a routing table to a session management function; receiving an indication from the session management function of how data services will be routed, wherein the indication includes at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule based on the routing table; and using the packet detection rule and / or forwarding action rule to route data services to hosts.

[0220] The device can receive instructions from the session management function to obtain the identifier of the interface between the device and at least one router from the time-sensitive network switching function.

[0221] The device can refrain from sending routing advertisements for at least one of the routers. The device can receive instructions to perform the relinquishment of session management functions.

[0222] Figure 10 The illustration shows operations that can be performed by a device. This device may include an SMF. The device may include the SMF of Figure 6. When Figure 9 When the device includes a UPF, the device can be used with Figure 9 The device interacts with the above-described device. Figure 2 The above is to achieve this.

[0223] During 1001, the device receives an indication from the user plane function of how data services will be routed between the user plane function and multiple routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the indication includes at least one of the following: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the device is included in the session management function.

[0224] When the indication includes a routing table, the device can use the routing table to create at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule that indicates how data services will be routed; and to provide at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule to user plane functions.

[0225] Figure 11 The illustration shows operations that can be performed by a device. This device may include a UPF. This device may include the SMF of Figure 8. When... Figure 9 When the device includes a UPF, the device can be used with Figure 9 The device interacts with the above-described device. Figure 2 The above is to achieve this.

[0226] During 1101, the device can receive instructions from the session management function to abandon signaling notifications of route advertisements for at least one of a plurality of routers located on the downlink between the terminal device and the host.

[0227] During 1102, the device may waive the signaling notification of the route advertisement, wherein the device is included in the user plane function.

[0228] The device can receive instructions from the session management function on how data services will be routed, including at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and cause the data services to be routed to the host according to at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule.

[0229] This subject matter disclosure provides a complete and informative description of some of the various examples described herein through non-limiting and illustrative examples. However, various modifications and adaptations will become apparent to those skilled in the art when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims, given the foregoing description. Nevertheless, all such and similar modifications to these teachings will still fall within the scope of the various examples disclosed herein.

[0230] In the foregoing, radio access architectures based on Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE Advanced, LTE-A) or new radios (NR, 5G, 6G, etc.) were used as examples of access architectures to which the described technologies could be applied to describe different examples; however, the examples are not limited to such architectures. These examples can also be applied to other types of communication networks with suitable methods by appropriately adapting parameters and procedures. Some examples of other options for suitable systems are Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Radio Access Network (UTRAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN or Wi-Fi), Global Microwave Access Interoperability (WiMAX), Bluetooth®, Personal Communication Services (PCS), ZigBee®, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), systems using Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, sensor networks, Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANET), and Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), or any combination thereof.

[0231] As provided herein, several aspects are described in the various examples disclosed in this subject matter and in the claims. Typically, some examples can be implemented in hardware or special-purpose circuitry, software code, logic, or any combination thereof. For example, some aspects can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software code that can be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device, although the examples are not limited thereto. Although various examples may be illustrated and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other graphical representation, it is well understood that, as non-limiting and illustrative examples, these blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, software code, firmware code, special-purpose circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0232] These examples can be implemented by computer software code stored in memory and executable by at least one data processor of the entity involved, or by hardware, or by a combination of software code and hardware.

[0233] The memory referred to in this document can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and removable memory.

[0234] The (data) processor referred to herein can be any type suitable for the local technical environment, and by way of non-limiting and illustrative example, can include one or more of the following: general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), FPGA, gate-level circuit, and processor based on multi-core processor architecture.

[0235] Furthermore, it should be noted in this regard, for example, such as Figure 9 and / or Figure 10 and / or Figure 11 And / or any process otherwise described herein may represent the operation of a program (e.g., a computer program) deployed by at least one processor included in the device (where the program (e.g., the computer program) includes instructions for causing the device to perform at least one action, the instructions being represented as software code stored on at least one memory), or represent interconnected logic circuits, blocks, and functions, or represent a combination of the operation of a computer program deployed by at least one processor included in the device with logic circuits, blocks, and functions. The software code may be stored on memory, such as memory chips or blocks of memory implemented within a processor, magnetic media (such as hard disks or floppy disks), and optical media (such as, for example, DVDs and their data variants, CDs, etc.).

[0236] The memory can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. The data processor can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and, by way of non-limiting and illustrative example, can include one or more of the following: general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), gate-level circuits, and processors based on multi-core processor architectures.

[0237] Additionally or alternatively, some examples may be implemented using a circuit system. This circuit system may be configured to perform one or more of the previously described functions and / or method steps. This circuit system may be provided in network nodes and / or base stations and / or communication equipment and / or core network entities.

[0238] As used herein, the terms “circuit system” or “component” can refer to one or more or all of the following examples: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation only in analog and / or digital circuit systems); (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software code, such as: (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware code, and (ii) Any part of the hardware processor(s) having software code (including the digital signal processor(s)), the software code, and the memory(s) working together to enable an apparatus (such as a communication device or base station) to perform the various functions previously described; and (c) (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion thereof, which operate using software code (e.g., firmware), but may be absent when not in use for operation.

[0239] This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term herein (including in any claim). As another example, as used herein, the term circuit system also covers implementations of hardware circuitry or processors (or processors) or a portion thereof and their accompanying software and / or firmware code. The term circuit system also covers, for example, integrated devices.

[0240] Implementations of this disclosure can be implemented in various components such as integrated circuit modules. Integrated circuit design is largely a highly automated process. Complex and powerful software tools are available to transform logic-level designs into semiconductor circuit designs ready for etching and molding on semiconductor substrates.

[0241] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording (where the list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”) means at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements.

[0242] As used herein, the term “non-transient” refers to a limitation on the medium itself (e.g., tangible, not signal), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0243] The scope of protection sought by the various examples disclosed in this subject matter is defined by the independent claims. Various examples and aspects / features (if any) described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples helpful in understanding the disclosure of this subject matter.

[0244] This subject matter disclosure provides a complete and informative description of some example implementations through non-limiting and illustrative examples. However, various modifications and adaptations will become apparent to those skilled in the art when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims, given the foregoing description. Nevertheless, all such and similar modifications to the teachings disclosed herein will still fall within the scope of the various examples described herein. Indeed, other example implementations exist, comprising combinations of one or more example implementations with any other example implementations described herein.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising means for: exchanging routing information with a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host, wherein the apparatus is comprised in a core network function; constructing a routing table comprising at least one learned route for routing data traffic to the host using the routing information; and configuring a user plane function to use a preferred route of the at least one learned route for routing data traffic such that the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers for routing the data traffic to the host.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the core network function comprises a session management function.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the means for configuring the user plane function comprises means for: using the routing table to create an indication of how data traffic is to be routed, wherein the indication comprises at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and providing the indication of how data traffic is to be routed to the user plane function.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the using the routing table to create an indication of how data traffic is to be routed is performed in dependence on a determination that the routing table indicates that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule for routing data traffic currently configured at the user plane function is to be changed.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the user plane function is configured to interface with the plurality of routers using a plurality of respective router interfaces, and the apparatus further comprises means for: reserving a respective address for each of the plurality of interfaces in a same address subnet; and using the respective addresses for addressing routing information to the plurality of routers.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising means for: using the reserved respective addresses for exchanging routing information with the routers associated with the reserved respective addresses, wherein the routing information comprises information about a topology of a network on an uplink of the apparatus and / or a downlink of the apparatus.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, further comprising means for providing the user plane function with an instruction to refrain from sending a route advertisement about at least one of the routers.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the routing information is signaled to the at least one terminal device directly using non-access stratum signaling and / or indirectly via a user plane function.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the core network function comprises the user plane function.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the means for configuring the user plane function comprises means for: using the routing table to create an indication of how data traffic is to be routed, wherein the indication comprises at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and causing the apparatus to use the packet detection rule and / or the forwarding action rule to route data traffic to the host.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising means for providing the packet detection rule and / or the forwarding action rule to a session management function.

12. The apparatus of any of claims 10 to 11, wherein the using the routing table to create an indication of how data traffic is to be routed is performed in dependence on a determination that the routing table indicates that at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule for routing data traffic currently configured at the user plane function is to be changed.

13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the means for configuring the user plane function comprises means for: providing the routing table to a session management function; receiving, from the session management function, an indication of how data traffic is to be routed, wherein the indication comprises at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule based on the routing table; and using the packet detection rule and / or the forwarding action rule to route data traffic to the host.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising means for receiving, from the session management function, an instruction to obtain an identifier of an interface between the apparatus and the at least one router from a time sensitive network translation function.

15. The apparatus of any of claims 9 to 14, further comprising means for abstaining from sending a route advertisement regarding at least one of the routers.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising means for receiving an instruction to perform the abstaining from the session management function.

17. An apparatus comprising means for: receiving, from a user plane function, an indication of how data traffic is to be routed between the user plane function and a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host, wherein the indication comprises at least one of: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the apparatus is comprised in a session management function.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein when the indication comprises a routing table, the apparatus further comprises means for: using the routing table to create at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule indicating how data traffic is to be routed; and providing the at least one packet detection rule and / or the at least one forwarding action rule to the user plane function.

19. An apparatus comprising means for: receiving, from a session management function, an instruction to abstain from signaling a route advertisement regarding at least one of a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host; and receiving, from a session management function, an instruction to abstain from signaling a route advertisement regarding at least one of a plurality of routers located on a downlink between a terminal device and a host; and The signaling of the route announcement is abandoned, wherein the device is included in the user plane function.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a component for performing: Receive from the session management function an indication of how data services will be routed, the indication including at least one packet detection rule and / or at least one forwarding action rule; and This enables data services to be routed to the host according to the at least one packet detection rule and / or the at least one forwarding action rule.

21. A method for an apparatus, the method comprising: The device exchanges routing information with multiple routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the device is included in the core network function. Construct a routing table, the routing table including at least one learned route for routing data services to the host using the routing information; as well as By configuring the user plane function to route data services using the preferred route from the at least one learned route, the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers to route the data services to the host.

22. A method for an apparatus, the method comprising: An indication of how data services received from the user plane function will be routed between the user plane function and multiple routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the indication includes at least one of the following: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the means is included in the session management function.

23. A method for an apparatus, the method comprising: Receive instructions from the session management function to abandon signaling a route advertisement for at least one of a plurality of routers located on the downlink between the terminal device and the host; as well as The signaling of the route announcement is abandoned, wherein the device is included in the user plane function.

24. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform: The device exchanges routing information with multiple routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the device is included in the core network function. Construct a routing table, the routing table including at least one learned route for routing data services to the host using the routing information; as well as By configuring the user plane function to route data services using the preferred route from the at least one learned route, the preferred route is used when selecting a router from the plurality of routers to route the data services to the host.

25. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform: An indication of how data services received from the user plane function will be routed between the user plane function and multiple routers on the downlink between the terminal device and the host, wherein the indication includes at least one of the following: a routing table, at least one packet detection rule, or at least one forwarding action rule, wherein the means is included in the session management function.

26. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform: Receive from the session management function an instruction to abandon signaling a route advertisement for at least one of a plurality of routers located on the downlink between the terminal device and the host; and The signaling of the route announcement is abandoned, wherein the device is included in the user plane function.

Images