Communication method, apparatus, computer readable medium, and computer device

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method, device, computer readable medium and computer device. The communication method comprises: generating a local area network group according to information of terminal devices that join the local area network, the terminal devices comprising at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device that connects to a core network directly through an access network, a second type of device that accesses the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that connects to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that accesses the core network through a relay device; configuring a processing policy for a user plane function network element corresponding to the local area network group, so that the user plane function network element performs data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing policy. The technical solution of the embodiments of the present application can support multiple types of terminal devices to work cooperatively in the same local area network group, thereby improving the flexibility and applicability of the network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the fields of computer and communication technology, and more specifically, to a communication method, apparatus, computer-readable medium, and computer equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of 5G networks, 5G Local Area Network (LAN) technology is gradually becoming an important component of local networks in industries, enterprises, and homes. 5G LAN allows multiple User Equipment (UE) devices to form a virtual local network via a 5G network, achieving low-latency, high-bandwidth, and secure communication. However, the 5G LAN solutions proposed in related technologies require the UE to connect directly to the access network via the Uu interface, thus limiting the flexibility of 5G LAN in practical application scenarios. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The embodiments of this application provide a communication method, apparatus, computer-readable medium, and computer device that can support multiple types of terminal devices to work collaboratively in the same local area network group, thereby improving the flexibility and applicability of the network.

[0004] Other features and advantages of this application will become apparent from the following detailed description, or may be learned in part by practice of this application.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method executed by a core network element. The communication method includes: generating a local area network group based on information of terminal devices joining the local area network, wherein the terminal devices include at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network, a second type of device connected to the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device connected to the core network via a relay device; configuring a processing policy to the user plane function network element corresponding to the local area network group, so that the user plane function network element performs data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing policy.

[0006] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method executed by a user plane function network element. The communication method includes: receiving a processing policy configured by a core network element for a local area network group, wherein the terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network, a second type of device connected to the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device connected to the core network via a relay device; and performing data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing policy.

[0007] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method executed by a gateway device or relay device corresponding to a local area network (LAN) group. The terminal devices in the LAN group include at least two of the following types: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network; a second type of device accessing the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network; a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method; and a fourth type of device accessing the core network via a relay device. The communication method includes: receiving a first data packet sent from the core network to a first terminal device in the LAN group, the first data packet containing a core network identifier of the first terminal device; replacing the core network identifier of the first terminal device in the first data packet with an internal identifier of the first terminal device according to a mapping relationship between the core network identifier and an internal identifier, obtaining a second data packet; and sending the second data packet to the first terminal device.

[0008] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device applied to a core network element. The communication device includes: a generation unit configured to generate a local area network group based on information of terminal devices joining the local area network, wherein the terminal devices include at least two types of the following: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network, a second type of device connected to the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device connected to the core network via a relay device; and a processing unit configured to configure a processing strategy for the user plane function network element corresponding to the local area network group, so that the user plane function network element performs data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing strategy.

[0009] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device applied to a user plane function network element. The communication device includes: a receiving unit configured to receive a processing strategy for a local area network group configured by a core network element, wherein the terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network, a second type of device connected to the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device connected to the core network via a relay device; and a processing unit configured to perform data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing strategy.

[0010] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device applied to a gateway device or relay device corresponding to a local area network (LAN) group. The terminal devices in the LAN group include at least two of the following types: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network; a second type of device accessing the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network; a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method; and a fourth type of device accessing the core network via a relay device. The communication device includes: a receiving unit configured to receive a first data packet sent by the core network to a first terminal device in the LAN group, the first data packet containing a core network identifier of the first terminal device; a processing unit configured to replace the core network identifier of the first terminal device in the first data packet with an internal identifier of the first terminal device according to a mapping relationship between the core network identifier and an internal identifier, thereby obtaining a second data packet; and a sending unit configured to send the second data packet to the first terminal device.

[0011] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the communication method as described in the above embodiments.

[0012] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer device, including: one or more processors; and a storage device for storing one or more computer programs, which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the computer device to implement the communication method as described in the above embodiments.

[0013] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product comprising a computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor of a computer device reads from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer program, causing the computer device to perform the communication methods provided in the various alternative embodiments described above.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the core network element can generate a local area network (LAN) group based on information about the terminal devices joining the LAN. The terminal devices joining the LAN can include at least two of the following types: a first type of device directly connected to the core network via an access network; a second type of device connected to the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network; a third type of device connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method; and a fourth type of device connected to the core network via a relay device. Then, the core network element can configure a processing policy for the user plane function network element corresponding to the LAN group, enabling the user plane function network element to perform data routing processing within the LAN group according to the processing policy. Therefore, the technical solutions of this application can support multiple types of terminal devices working collaboratively in the same LAN group, thereby enabling 5G LAN technology to adapt to more diverse application scenarios, especially the hybrid network architectures common in home, enterprise, and industrial environments, greatly improving network flexibility and applicability.

[0015] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 A framework diagram of a 5G LAN group in a 5G system is shown.

[0017] Figure 2 This application provides schematic diagrams illustrating various 5G access systems in its embodiments.

[0018] Figure 3 A system architecture diagram of a credible non-3GPP access method according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0019] Figure 4 A system architecture diagram of an untrusted, non-3GPP access method according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0020] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a heterogeneous 5G LAN group according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0021] Figure 6 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0022] Figure 7 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0023] Figure 8 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0024] Figure 9 Two schematic diagrams of 5G LAN end-to-end user plane architectures are shown;

[0025] Figure 10 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0026] Figure 11 A block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0027] Figure 12 A block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0028] Figure 13 A block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0029] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of a computer system suitable for implementing the computer device of the present application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in a more comprehensive manner with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as limited to these examples; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this application will be more comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art.

[0031] Furthermore, the features, structures, or characteristics described in this application can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to provide a full understanding of the embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that when implementing the technical solutions of this application, not all detailed features in the embodiments may be used, one or more specific details may be omitted, or other methods, elements, devices, steps, etc., may be employed.

[0032] In this application embodiment, the terms "module" or "unit" refer to a computer program or part of a computer program that has a predetermined function and works with other related parts to achieve a predetermined goal, and can be implemented wholly or partially using software, hardware (such as processing circuitry or memory), or a combination thereof. Similarly, a processor (or multiple processors or memory) can be used to implement one or more modules or units. Furthermore, each module or unit can be part of an overall module or unit that includes the functionality of that module or unit.

[0033] The block diagrams shown in the accompanying drawings are merely functional entities and do not necessarily correspond to physically independent entities. That is, these functional entities can be implemented in software, in one or more hardware modules or integrated circuits, or in different network and / or processor devices and / or microcontroller devices.

[0034] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0035] It should be noted that "multiple" in this article refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0036] With the rapid development of 5G networks, 5G LAN technology is gradually becoming an important component of local area networks in industries, enterprises, and homes. 5G LAN allows multiple user devices to form a virtual local area network via a 5G network, achieving low latency, high bandwidth, and secure communication. For example, in... Figure 1 In the example shown, the 5G core network (5GC) includes User Plane Function (UPF) network elements, control plane network elements, and Unified Data Management (UDM) functions. The control plane network elements may include, for example, Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network elements, Session Management Function (SMF) network elements, and Policy Control Function (PCF) network elements. The UPF connects to the Data Network (DN), which provides data access functions to the UE.

[0037] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the UDM network element stores the UE's subscription data. Based on this subscription data, the UE can choose to be assigned to the corresponding Virtual Network Group (VN Group), thus forming different 5G LAN groups, such as... Figure 1The examples shown are 5G LAN group 1, 5G LAN group n, etc.

[0038] According to existing standards, current 5G LAN technology requires third-party networks to deploy localized UPFs and to use local bearers generated by 5GS for 5G LAN communication. At the same time, all security-related information (such as user identifiers, group information, etc.) must be managed by the operator's core network. This approach limits the widespread application of 5G LAN in relevant scenarios.

[0039] Specifically, third-party networks (such as home, enterprise, or small-scale public networks) typically use Wi-Fi or other wired networks to configure local wireless resources and access the 5G network through 5G Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) or other user gateways. Therefore, they must deploy localized UPFs, increasing deployment complexity and cost. Furthermore, current 5G LAN solutions require third-party network security-related information (such as user identifiers and group information) to be provided to the operator's core network, potentially leading to internal privacy breaches within the local network, especially in home and enterprise environments where user privacy protection requirements are high.

[0040] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, current 5G LAN solutions primarily target end-to-end 5G technology usage scenarios, i.e., scenarios where the UE accesses via the Uu interface. However, existing solutions do not provide effective support for devices accessing via 5G Residential Gateway (RG), 5G CPE, or other methods. This limits the flexibility of 5G LAN in practical application scenarios, especially in environments such as homes, enterprises, and industries, where users often use multiple access methods.

[0041] Based on the problems existing in the related technologies, this application proposes a new technical solution. On the one hand, it enables 5G LAN technology to provide more access methods and supports terminal devices of different access types to work collaboratively in the same 5G LAN group, improving the flexibility of establishing 5G LAN groups. On the other hand, it can also effectively protect the privacy of local area network users and improve the security of communication.

[0042] Specifically, such as Figure 2As shown in the embodiments of this application, multiple access methods to the 5G system are provided. The first access method involves directly accessing the 5G base station via a Uu link and then connecting to the 5G network, as exemplified by devices A1 and A2. The second access method involves indirectly accessing the base station via 5G-RG. Specifically, devices B1 and B2 first access 5G-RG, which then connects to the 5G base station via a Uu link, allowing devices B1 and B2 to access the 5G network. The third access method involves accessing the 5G network via a non-3GPP access method. For example, devices C1 and C2 access the Non-3GPP Interworking Function (N3IWF) network element via a non-3GPP access method, and the N3IWF connects to the 5G network. The fourth access method involves accessing the core network via a relay device, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the relay device connects to the 5G base station via a Uu link, and devices D1 and D2 connect to the core network via the relay device. Optionally, devices D1 and D2 can communicate with the relay device via device-to-device (D2D) communication, or they can communicate with the relay device via wired communication links, Wi-Fi, or other methods.

[0043] It should be noted that, Figure 2 The 5G-RG shown is merely an example. In the embodiments of this application, it can refer to user front-end devices that can provide 5G access for non-5G terminals. It is not limited to 5G-RG, but can also be other devices such as 5G CPE that can access the 5G network.

[0044] At the same time, Figure 2 In the example shown, devices C1 and C2 access the 5G network via N3IWF. This method is suitable for system architectures with untrusted, non-3GPP access methods, as detailed below. Figure 3 As shown, the N3IWF connects to the core network elements AMF and UPF. The UE can access the N3IWF through an untrusted non-3GPP access method (for example, the UE establishes an Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) tunnel with the N3IWF to connect to the 5G core network through an untrusted non-3GPP access method) and access the 5G core network through the N3IWF.

[0045] Optionally, the system architecture of trusted non-3GPP access methods is also suitable for the embodiments of this application, specifically, such as Figure 4As shown, the Trusted Non-3GPP Access Network (TNAN) element connects to the core network elements AMF and UPF. The UE can access the 5G core network through the TNAN. The TNAN includes a Trusted Non-3GPP Access Point (TNAP) and a Trusted Non-3GPP Gateway Function (TNGF). In other words, in the technical solution of this application embodiment, the UE can also access the 5G network through the TNAN.

[0046] based on Figure 2 The access method shown, in one embodiment of this application, can be based on at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network via the access network (i.e., Figure 2 The first type of access method shown), and the second type of device (i.e., accessing the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network). Figure 2 The second access method shown), and the third type of equipment connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method (i.e. Figure 2 The third access method shown), and the fourth type of equipment accessing the core network through relay equipment (i.e. Figure 2 The fourth access method shown is used to build a local area network group. For example, in... Figure 5 In the example shown, devices A1, B1, and C1 can form 5G LAN group 1; devices A2, B2, and C2 can form 5G LAN group 2. In other words, the technical solution of this application embodiment can support multiple types of terminal devices to work collaboratively in the same local area network group, enabling 5G LAN technology to adapt to more diverse application scenarios.

[0047] exist Figure 5In the example shown, core network elements (such as the SMF) can configure processing policies for the user plane function network elements corresponding to the LAN group. The user plane function network elements can then perform data routing processing within the LAN group according to these policies. Specifically, when the SMF establishes a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session for a terminal device in the LAN group, the SMF can select an appropriate UPF to handle the user's traffic based on the terminal device's needs and network policies. This UPF is the one corresponding to the LAN group and is primarily responsible for forwarding user plane data and controlling Quality of Service (QoS). Simultaneously, the SMF can configure corresponding QoS parameters based on the terminal device's subscription information and application requirements, and pass the QoS rules to the UPF. This allows the SMF to configure processing policies for the UPF, which in turn can perform data routing processing within the LAN group according to the policies configured by the SMF.

[0048] As can be seen, the technical solution of this application embodiment supports multiple types of terminal devices to work collaboratively in the same local area network group, improves the flexibility of establishing 5G LAN groups, and expands the application scenarios of 5G LAN technology.

[0049] The implementation details of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application are described in detail below:

[0050] Figure 6 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown. This communication method can be executed by a core network element, such as an SMF or other core network elements like a PCF. (Refer to...) Figure 6 As shown, this communication method includes at least S610 to S620, which are described in detail below:

[0051] In S610, a local area network group is generated based on the information of the terminal devices joining the local area network. The terminal devices include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device.

[0052] In some optional embodiments, the first type of device that connects directly to the core network via the access network is one that connects directly to the base station via a Uu link and then accesses the terminal device in the core network through the base station, such as... Figure 5 Devices A1 and A2 are shown in the diagram.

[0053] In some optional embodiments, the fourth type of device accessing the core network via a relay device is a terminal device connected to the relay device, and the relay device being connected to the core network, such as... Figure 2 Devices D1 and D2 are shown in the diagram. Optionally, the fourth type of device can communicate with the relay device via D2D communication, or it can communicate with the relay device via a wired communication link, Wi-Fi, or other means.

[0054] In some optional embodiments, the second type of device accessing the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network is a terminal device connected to a gateway device that establishes a Uu link with the base station, such as... Figure 5 Devices B1 and B2 are shown in the diagram. The gateway device establishing the Uu link with the base station can be a user front-end device such as a 5G-RG or 5G CPE. In this case, the terminal device can connect to the gateway device via wired or wireless means such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Furthermore, if the core network element receives the core network identifier of at least one terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by at least one terminal device sent by the gateway device, it can generate a local area network group based on the core network identifier and the local area network information to be joined by at least one terminal device, thus adding the at least one terminal device to the local area network group.

[0055] In some optional embodiments, the third type of device connecting to the core network via a non-3GPP access method is a terminal device that connects to the core network via a non-3GPP access method provided by a gateway device, such as... Figure 5 Devices C1 and C2 are shown. Optionally, if the gateway device is N3IWF, then as shown... Figure 3 As shown, the N3IWF can establish a connection with the AMF network element in the core network through the N2 interface, and with the UPF network element in the core network through the N3 interface. If the gateway device is... Figure 4 The TNAN shown (which can be TNAP or TNGF within TNAN) can also establish a connection with the AMF network element in the core network via the N2 interface and with the UPF network element in the core network via the N3 interface. In this case, terminal devices can also connect to the gateway device via wired or wireless methods such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Furthermore, if the core network element receives the core network identifier of at least one terminal device and the LAN information to be joined by at least one terminal device sent by the gateway device, it can generate a LAN group based on the core network identifier and the LAN information to be joined by at least one terminal device, and add the at least one terminal device to the LAN group.

[0056] Optionally, in the above examples, since the first type of device can directly access the core network through a base station, its core network identifier can be directly assigned by the core network elements. For the second and third types of devices, the core network identifier of the terminal device can be assigned by the gateway device. For example, the gateway device can obtain a predetermined number of core network identifiers from the core network in advance, and then assign core network identifiers used in the core network to the terminal devices connected to the gateway device based on the core network identifiers obtained from the core network. That is, the gateway device can assign the core network identifiers obtained from the core network to the connected terminal devices. For the fourth type of device, since it accesses the core network through a relay device, its core network elements can be directly assigned by the core network elements or assigned by the relay device. If assigned by the relay device, the processing method of the relay device is similar to that of the gateway device.

[0057] In some optional embodiments, the process by which the gateway device obtains a predetermined number of core network identifiers from the core network may involve the gateway device communicating with network elements (such as AMFs) in the core network to obtain the predetermined number of core network identifiers configured by the network elements in the core network.

[0058] In some optional embodiments, the process by which the gateway device obtains a predetermined number of core network identifiers from the core network may also involve the gateway device negotiating a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with network elements (such as AMF, PCF, etc.) in the core network to obtain a predetermined number of core network identifiers configured by the network elements in the core network.

[0059] Optionally, the core network identifier mentioned above can be a globally unique temporary identifier (GUID), a user permanent identifier (SUPI), or the like.

[0060] In some alternative embodiments, the core network identifier of the terminal device can also be associated with the type of the gateway device. For example, if the gateway device is 5G-RG, then the core network identifier assigned to the connected terminal devices by 5G-RG can identify that these terminal devices are connected to 5G-RG; if the gateway device is N3IWF, then the core network identifier assigned to the connected terminal devices by N3IWF can identify that these terminal devices are connected to N3IWF. This facilitates the core network elements in allocating corresponding transmission resources accordingly.

[0061] Optionally, associating the core network identifier with the gateway device type can be done by associating the core network identifier with the network protocol type of the gateway device (such as different versions of the Wi-Fi protocol). This facilitates the configuration of network transmission resources corresponding to the network protocol type by the core network elements.

[0062] In some optional embodiments, the terminal device may have an internal identifier within the local area network (LAN). This internal identifier is mainly used for communication within the LAN. At the same time, the core network identifier of the terminal device may be mapped to the internal identifier of the terminal device. This ensures that the internal identifier is only used within the LAN and is not exposed to the external network. This separation mechanism effectively protects the privacy of LAN users and improves the security of communication.

[0063] In some optional embodiments, the terminal devices within the local area network (LAN) in this application embodiment may also have grouping information. This allows different types of services to be processed by terminal devices in different groups within the same 5G LAN group, or enables targeted management of different terminal device groups, improving the flexibility of LAN management. Optionally, the grouping information may be associated with the network type accessed by the terminal device. For example, terminal devices in the same 5G LAN group using the same access method may be grouped into one group, which facilitates the management of terminal devices using the same access method.

[0064] Optionally, packet information within the local area network (LAN) can be segmented by the gateway device, or it can be segmented by the gateway device interacting with network elements in the core network (such as the AMF). Furthermore, the gateway device can also interact with network elements in the core network (such as the AMF) to adjust the packet information of at least one terminal device to adapt to the management needs of different services, thus improving the flexibility of managing terminal devices within the LAN.

[0065] In some optional embodiments, first-type devices that connect directly to the core network via the access network can register directly in the core network and establish a PDU session, thus creating a corresponding core network context. For second-type devices that access the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network, and third-type devices that connect to the core network via non-3GPP access methods, the gateway device (which could be 5G-RG, 5GCPE, etc. for second-type devices; or N3IWF, TNAN, or TNAP or TNGF in TNAN, etc. for third-type devices) can replace the creation of the terminal device's core network context in the core network. This allows the gateway device to centrally manage and control the access and context information of the connected terminal devices, significantly reducing signaling overhead, lowering the core network load, and improving overall network performance. Simultaneously, creating the terminal device's core network context in the core network via the gateway device also ensures that the internal topology of the local area network and user information are not exposed to external networks, protecting user privacy.

[0066] Optionally, the process by which the gateway device creates the core network context of the terminal device in the core network on behalf of the connected terminal device can be as follows: a registration request is sent to a network element in the core network, which contains the core network identifier of the terminal device. After receiving a registration acceptance message from a network element in the core network, the gateway device can send a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session establishment request to the network element in the core network. This PDU session establishment request contains the core network identifier of the terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by the terminal device, so that the network element in the core network can generate the core network context of the terminal device.

[0067] Specifically, the gateway device can add the terminal device's core network identifier (such as SUIP, GUID, etc.) to the constructed Registration Request message and then send it to the AMF. Upon receiving the registration request, the AMF can authenticate and authorize the terminal device through the Authentication Server Function (AUSF) network element. Optionally, the AMF can obtain the terminal device's authentication information from the UDM to verify the terminal device's identity. After successful authentication of the terminal device, the AMF creates necessary context information for the terminal device, including location information and subscription information. This context information will be used for subsequent PDU session management and data transmission. Then, the AMF can send a Registration Accept message to the gateway device to confirm successful registration.

[0068] After receiving the Registration Accept message, the gateway device parses the information to confirm that the terminal device has successfully registered to the core network. In fact, the terminal device may be unaware of this process because the registration process of the terminal device is performed by the gateway device on its behalf.

[0069] After confirming successful registration of the terminal device, the gateway device can construct a PDU Session Establishment Request message for the terminal device. This message may include the terminal device's core network identifier, the local area network information the terminal device wants to join (such as the LAN group identifier), and also the PDU session type (such as IPv4, IPv6, or IPv4 / IPv6 dual-stack), QoS requirements (such as required QoS parameters), and the data network the terminal device wants to connect to. The gateway device can then send the PDU session establishment request to the SMF (Service Management Function), which is primarily responsible for handling the establishment and management of PDU sessions.

[0070] After receiving a PDU session establishment request, the SMF can select an appropriate UPF to handle user traffic based on the terminal device's needs and network policies. The UPF is primarily responsible for forwarding user plane data and QoS control. Simultaneously, the SMF can configure corresponding QoS parameters based on the terminal device's subscription information and application requirements, and pass the QoS rules to the UPF. The SMF can then generate a complete PDU session context for the terminal device, including the PDU session identifier, QoS configuration, and UPF selection. This context information will be used for subsequent data transmission and session management. Finally, the SMF can send a PDU Session Establishment Accept message to the gateway device to confirm successful PDU session establishment.

[0071] Optionally, after confirming the successful establishment of the PDU session, the gateway device can notify the terminal device of the PDU session establishment result via a local area network (such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, etc.), informing it that it has successfully accessed the 5G network and obtained the corresponding network resources. Subsequently, the terminal device can transmit data with the 5G core network through the gateway device. The gateway device is responsible for forwarding the terminal device's traffic to the UPF in the core network and can perform traffic control and optimization based on the PDU session context and QoS rules.

[0072] Optionally, for the fourth type of device that accesses the core network through a relay device, it can either register directly in the core network through the relay device and establish a PDU session to create a corresponding core network context in the core network; or the relay device can create the core network context of the terminal device in the core network instead, a process similar to that of the gateway device.

[0073] In S620, processing policies are configured for the user plane function network elements corresponding to the local area network group, so that the user plane function network elements can perform data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing policies.

[0074] In some optional embodiments, the user plane function element corresponding to the local area network group is the UPF selected by the SMF when establishing a PDU session for terminal devices in the local area network, which is responsible for forwarding user plane data and controlling QoS. Optionally, the processing policies configured for the UPF may include QoS rules, user plane data routing methods, etc.

[0075] Optionally, after receiving a data packet that needs to be sent to a designated terminal device in the local area network (LAN) group, the UPF can route the data packet to the device indicated by the core network identifier of the designated terminal device contained in the data packet. The device indicated by the core network identifier may be a terminal device directly connected to the base station and accessing the core network via a Uu link. In this case, the UPF can directly send the data packet to the corresponding terminal device. If the device indicated by the core network identifier is a gateway device connected to the designated terminal device, then after the UPF sends the data packet to the corresponding gateway device, the gateway device can map the core network identifier contained in the data packet to an internal identifier and then send it to the designated terminal device. This ensures that the terminal device's internal identifier is only used within the LAN and is not exposed to the external network. This separation mechanism effectively protects the privacy of LAN users and improves communication security.

[0076] Figure 7 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown. This communication method can be performed by a UPF or by other network elements. (Refer to...) Figure 7 As shown, this communication method includes at least S710 to S720, which are described in detail below:

[0077] In S710, the processing policy configured by the core network element for the local area network group is received. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device.

[0078] Optionally, the core network element can be an SMF or a PCF, etc. The processing strategy for the local area network group may include QoS rules and user plane data routing methods when processing user plane data in the local area network group.

[0079] For details regarding terminal devices in a local area network group, please refer to the technical solutions in the foregoing embodiments; further explanation is not required here.

[0080] In the S720, data routing is performed in the local area network group according to this processing strategy.

[0081] In some optional embodiments, after receiving a data packet that needs to be sent to a designated terminal device in the local area network group, the UPF can route the data packet to the device indicated by the core network identifier of the designated terminal device contained in the data packet. The device indicated by the core network identifier may be a terminal device directly connected to the base station and accessing the core network via a Uu link. In this case, the UPF can directly send the data packet to the corresponding terminal device. If the device indicated by the core network identifier is a gateway device connected to the designated terminal device, then after the UPF sends the data packet to the corresponding gateway device, the gateway device can map the core network identifier contained in the data packet to an internal identifier before sending it to the designated terminal device. Similarly, if the device indicated by the core network identifier is a relay device connected to the designated terminal device, then after the UPF sends the data packet to the corresponding relay device, the relay device can map the core network identifier contained in the data packet to an internal identifier before sending it to the designated terminal device.

[0082] Figure 8 A flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application is shown. This communication method can be executed by a gateway device corresponding to a local area network group, or it can be executed by a relay device. (Refer to...) Figure 8 As shown, this communication method includes at least S810 to S830, which are described in detail below:

[0083] In S810, a first data packet sent by the core network to a first terminal device in a local area network group is received. The first data packet contains the core network identifier of the first terminal device.

[0084] Optionally, the terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device.

[0085] If the gateway device can receive the first data packet sent by the core network to the first terminal device in the LAN group, then the first terminal device is either the second type of device or the third type of device mentioned above. If the relay device can receive the first data packet sent by the core network to the first terminal device in the LAN group, then the first terminal device is either the fourth type of device mentioned above.

[0086] Optionally, the first data packet sent from the core network to the first terminal device in the local area network group can be a data packet routed to the first terminal device by the UPF, such as a data packet sent to the first terminal device by other terminal devices in the local area network via the UPF, or a data packet sent to the first terminal device by the application server.

[0087] Optionally, the first terminal device can be any terminal device in the local area network, or it can be multiple terminal devices in the local area network (such as in a scenario where data is sent via broadcast or multicast).

[0088] In S820, based on the mapping relationship between the core network identifier and the internal identifier, the core network identifier of the first terminal device contained in the first data packet is replaced with the internal identifier of the first terminal device to obtain the second data packet.

[0089] In this embodiment, by replacing the core network identifier of the first terminal device contained in the first data packet with the internal identifier of the first terminal device, the core network identifier and the internal identifier within the local area network are separated. The core network identifier is used only in the core network, while the internal identifier is used only within the local area network. This separation mechanism ensures that communication details within the local area network are not transmitted to the core network, preventing the leakage of sensitive information. It is particularly suitable for scenarios with high privacy requirements, such as homes and enterprises.

[0090] In S830, the second data packet is sent to the first terminal device.

[0091] In some optional embodiments, the gateway device (or relay device) can receive a third data packet that a second terminal device in the local area network (LAN) needs to send to the core network. This third data packet contains the internal identifier of the second terminal device. Then, based on the mapping relationship between the internal identifier and the core network identifier, the gateway device replaces the internal identifier of the second terminal device in the third data packet with the core network identifier of the second terminal device to obtain a fourth data packet, which is then sent to the core network. This embodiment also ensures that communication details within the LAN are not transmitted to the core network, preventing the leakage of sensitive information. Optionally, the second terminal device can be any one terminal device in the LAN, or it can be multiple terminal devices in the LAN.

[0092] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application have been described above from the perspectives of core network elements and gateway / relay devices. The following section takes the establishment of a 5G LAN group in a 5G system as an example to elaborate on the implementation details of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application:

[0093] The technical solution of this application mainly enhances the functions of the gateway and corresponding core network elements to achieve a more flexible 5G LAN communication mechanism and support heterogeneous 5G LAN networking. For example... Figure 5 As shown, devices A1, B1, and C1 can form 5G LAN group 1; devices A2, B2, and C2 can form 5G LAN group 2. In other words, the technical solution of this application embodiment can support multiple types of terminal devices to work collaboratively in the same local area network group. Specifically, it allows different terminals that directly access the base station via Uu, indirectly access the base station via 5G-RG, access the 5GC via non-3GPP access methods, or access the 5GC via other methods (such as relaying) to access the same 5G LAN, enabling 5G LAN technology to adapt to more diverse application scenarios.

[0094] If a terminal device accesses a base station via a Uu link and then connects to the 5G network through the base station, then if the base station is a macro base station deployed and operated by the operator, the operator can directly manage 5G LAN groups and 5G LAN user plane resources. These can all be implemented by the core network elements deployed by the operator. If the base station is a 5G small cell (Femto) and belongs to a third party, the operator can still manage 5G LAN resources for terminals under the Femto through end-to-end 5G Uu DRB + 5GC GTP-tunneling, ensuring end-to-end QoS. In other words, for terminal devices accessing the base station via a Uu link and then connecting to the 5G network through the base station, regardless of whether the 5G base station is deployed by the operator or a third party, end-to-end 5G LAN resource configuration and management can be performed from an end-to-end radio protocol perspective.

[0095] like Figure 9The diagram illustrates two end-to-end user plane architectures for 5G LAN. In the first architecture, UE1 and UE2, located within the 5G LAN, can transmit user plane data via a local switch mechanism using the PDU Session Anchor (PSA) UPF. That is, if UE1 and UE2 are connected to the same PSA UPF, user plane data routing can be directly achieved through that PSA UPF. In the second architecture, UE1 and UE2, located within the 5G LAN, can transmit user plane data via the N19 interface mechanism. That is, if UE1 and UE2 are not connected to the same PSA UPF, user plane data routing can be achieved through the PSA UPFs connected to UE1 and UE2 respectively.

[0096] It should be noted that, in Figure 9 In the example shown, the intermediate UPF (I-UPF) is not required. If the I-UPF is not present, the access network ((Radio)Access Network, (R)AN) can be directly connected to the PSAUPF.

[0097] The following combination Figure 10 This application primarily uses examples of terminal devices in heterogeneous 5G LAN groups that indirectly access base stations via 5G-RG and terminal devices that access 5GC via non-3GPP access methods to illustrate the technical solutions of its embodiments. Specifically, as... Figure 10 As shown, this can be achieved through the following steps:

[0098] S1001a, 5G-RG generates a local 5G LAN terminal identifier list.

[0099] S1001b, N3IWF generates a local 5G LAN terminal identifier list.

[0100] In some optional embodiments, the number of identifiers in the terminal identifier list generated by 5G-RG or N3IWF is the number of 5G LAN terminals in the local network, which can be one or more. 5G-RG or N3IWF can be responsible for generating a certain number of identifiers from the control plane perspective. These identifiers can be identified in the operator's core network (such as UDR, PCF, SMF, etc.) and serve as the ID of the 5G LAN UE, also known as the core network identifier.

[0101] Optionally, these identifiers can be associated with a specific 5G LAN terminal gateway type. For example, if the 5G LAN gateway is 5G-RG, then these 5G LAN UE identifiers can be identified as falling under the 5G-RG category.

[0102] Optionally, the gateway type associated with the 5G LAN terminal identifier can also be based on specific local network protocol type information, such as different versions of Wi-Fi. This information is helpful for 5GC to perform appropriate network resource configuration, such as network tunnel parameters.

[0103] Optionally, the generated local 5G LAN terminal list may also contain 5G LAN packet information, which may also be associated with the type of 5G LAN network accessed by the user, in order to support the core network configuration of end-to-end 5G LAN that supports heterogeneous access.

[0104] Optionally, the packet information of this 5G LAN terminal list can be dynamically generated by the operator's network interaction, rather than being generated all at once by the 5G LAN gateway device (5G-RG or N3IWF). During the dynamic interaction process, the corresponding 5G LAN packet information is generated and associated with the 5G LAN gateway type information.

[0105] S1002, 5G-RG and N3IWF interact with 5GC.

[0106] In some optional embodiments, the interaction between 5G-RG and N3IWF and 5GC is mainly with 5GC network elements to generate the corresponding configuration information of 5G LAN terminals in the core network.

[0107] Specifically, each terminal behind 5G-RG and N3IWF needs 5G-RG and N3IWF to generate the corresponding context in the 5GC network element on its behalf, including registering as a 5G LAN UE, establishing a PDU session, and configuring the corresponding 5G LAN group, etc.

[0108] S1003, core network control plane network element management heterogeneous 5G LAN configuration, generating relevant context.

[0109] Specifically, the relevant context generated by the core network control plane elements can include context information created by the AMF for the terminal device during the registration process, including location information, subscription information, etc. This context information will be used for subsequent PDU session management and data transmission. Alternatively, it can include PDU session context generated by the SMF for the terminal device during the PDU session establishment process, including PDU session identifier, QoS configuration, UPF selection, etc. This context information will be used for subsequent data transmission and session management.

[0110] In some optional embodiments, the relevant enhancements to the 5GC core network elements are as follows: The Unified Data Repository (UDR) stores the subscription information required for heterogeneous 5G LAN user access, which is associated with the 5G LAN local gateway. Corresponding policies can be formed in the PCF, and 5G LAN-related SLA negotiations can be conducted between the 5G network and the user server through interaction between the PCF and the AF. The PCF can interact with the SMF to generate corresponding QoS rules, N4 rules, etc.

[0111] S1004, UPF maintains heterogeneous 5G LAN user plane paths, supporting end-to-end QoS and security across heterogeneous networks.

[0112] In some optional embodiments, the SMF can be configured in the UPF, supporting heterogeneous 5G LANs. Figure 9 The method shown can be used to implement user plane data routing through the N19 interface mechanism or the PSA UPF local switch mechanism. It should be noted that if the terminal device is connected to the base station via 5G-RG, then during user plane data routing, it is necessary to... Figure 9 The diagram shows an added 5G-RG between the UE and (R)AN. If the terminal device accesses the core network via a non-3GPP access method, then since it does not go through the access network, it is necessary to... Figure 9 The (R)AN shown is replaced with N3IWF.

[0113] It should be noted that when configuring a 5G LAN gateway, since the 5G LAN gateway can be either a 5G-RG or an N3IWF, the configuration methods are different. For a 5G-RG, it can be configured through N2+NAS / RRC, while for an N3IWF, it can be configured through N2.

[0114] In some optional embodiments, in the AN and RAN portions, 5G-RG and N3IWF provide Network Address Translation (NAT) / Network Address Port Translation (NAPT) functions on the user plane. Specifically, when receiving data packets from the UE to the core network (such as UPF), the 5G-RG converts the local area network (LAN) identifier in the data packet to the core network identifier before sending it to the core network; conversely, when receiving data packets from the core network to the UE, the 5G-RG converts the core network identifier in the data packet to the LAN identifier before sending it to the UE. This isolates the local LAN identifier from the external core network identifier, protecting the privacy of third-party users.

[0115] It should be noted that, Figure 10 The description uses 5G-RG and N3IWF as examples of 5G LAN gateways. In other embodiments of this application, 5G-RG can be replaced with other devices, as long as they can establish a Uu link with the base station and allow the UE to connect and access the access network. N3IWF can also be replaced with TNAN (or TNAP or TNGF in TNAN), etc.

[0116] In summary, this application proposes a scheme for managing communication connections between 5G LAN and local networks. It allows mapping between 5G LAN configurations and local area network resource configurations, and flexibly generates 5G LAN group information based on user subscription information. Simultaneously, by enhancing the functions of the 5GC core network and the 5G LAN local gateway, it enables 5G LAN group communication across different access methods. The technical solution of this application makes 5G LAN communication more flexible, supporting 5G LAN terminals accessing directly via Uu, indirectly via 5G CPE to the base station, and via non-3GPP access methods within the same 5G LAN group, making the use of 5G LAN more closely aligned with the actual needs of both B2B and B2C users.

[0117] It should be noted that the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application are not only applicable to 5G systems, but also to future mobile communication systems.

[0118] The following describes an embodiment of the apparatus described in this application, which can be used to execute the communication method described in the above embodiments of this application. For details not disclosed in the apparatus embodiments of this application, please refer to the embodiments of the communication method described above.

[0119] Figure 11 A block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. The communication device can be applied to a core network element, such as an SMF or a PCF or other core network element.

[0120] Reference Figure 11 As shown, a communication device 1100 according to an embodiment of this application includes: a generation unit 1102 and a processing unit 1104.

[0121] The generation unit 1102 is configured to generate a local area network (LAN) group based on information of terminal devices joining the LAN. The terminal devices include at least two types of the following: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network via an access network; a second type of device that is connected to the core network via a gateway device connected to the access network; a third type of device that is connected to the core network via a non-3GPP access method; and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network via a relay device. The processing unit 1104 is configured to configure a processing strategy for the user plane function network element corresponding to the LAN group, so that the user plane function network element performs data routing processing in the LAN group according to the processing strategy.

[0122] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, if the terminal device includes the second type of device, the generation unit 1102 is configured to: receive the core network identifier of at least one terminal device sent by the gateway device, and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device, wherein the at least one terminal device is connected to the gateway device; and generate the local area network group according to the core network identifier of the at least one terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device.

[0123] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, if the terminal device includes the third type of device, the generation unit 1102 is configured to: receive the core network identifier of at least one terminal device sent by the gateway device, and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device, wherein the at least one terminal device is connected to the core network based on the non-3GPP access method provided by the gateway device; and generate the local area network group according to the core network identifier of the at least one terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device.

[0124] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, the core network identifier is assigned by the gateway device to the at least one terminal device, and the core network identifier is associated with the type of the gateway device.

[0125] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, the core network identifier is obtained from the core network by the gateway device and assigned to the at least one terminal device, and the core network identifier has a mapping relationship with the internal identifier of the terminal device, the internal identifier being used for communication within the local area network.

[0126] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, associating the core network identifier with the type of the gateway device includes: associating the core network identifier with the network protocol type of the gateway device; wherein, the core network identifier associated with the network protocol type of the gateway device is used to enable the core network element to configure network transmission resources corresponding to the network protocol type.

[0127] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, the terminal devices in the local area network have packet information, which is associated with the network type accessed by the terminal devices.

[0128] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, the terminal devices in the local area network have packet information; the processing unit 1104 is further configured to interact with network elements in the core network to adjust the packet information of the terminal devices in the local area network.

[0129] Figure 12 A block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application is shown. This communication device can be applied to a UPF or other network elements.

[0130] Reference Figure 12 As shown, a communication device 1200 according to an embodiment of this application includes a receiving unit 1202 and a processing unit 1204.

[0131] The receiving unit 1202 is configured to receive a processing strategy for a local area network group configured by a core network element. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through an access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. The processing unit 1204 is configured to perform data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing strategy.

[0132] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, the processing unit 1204 is configured to: receive a data packet that needs to be sent to a designated terminal device in the local area network group, the data packet containing the core network identifier of the designated terminal device; route the data packet to the device indicated by the core network identifier according to the core network identifier; wherein, if the device indicated by the core network identifier is a gateway device connected to the designated terminal device, the gateway device sends the data packet to the designated terminal device.

[0133] Figure 13A block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application is shown. The communication device can be applied to a gateway device or a relay device corresponding to a local area network group. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through an access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device.

[0134] Reference Figure 13 As shown, a communication device 1300 according to an embodiment of this application includes: a receiving unit 1302, a processing unit 1304, and a transmitting unit 1306.

[0135] The receiving unit 1302 is configured to receive a first data packet sent by the core network to a first terminal device in the local area network group, wherein the first data packet contains the core network identifier of the first terminal device; the processing unit 1304 is configured to replace the core network identifier of the first terminal device in the first data packet with the internal identifier of the first terminal device according to the mapping relationship between the core network identifier and the internal identifier, thereby obtaining a second data packet; and the sending unit 1306 is configured to send the second data packet to the first terminal device.

[0136] In some embodiments of this application, based on the foregoing scheme, the receiving unit 1302 is further configured to: receive a third data packet that the second terminal device in the local area network needs to send to the core network, the third data packet containing the internal identifier of the second terminal device; the processing unit 1304 is further configured to: replace the internal identifier of the second terminal device contained in the third data packet with the core network identifier of the second terminal device according to the mapping relationship to obtain a fourth data packet; the sending unit 1306 is further configured to: send the fourth data packet to the core network.

[0137] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of a computer system suitable for implementing the computer device of the embodiments of this application is shown. The computer device may be a core network element, a user plane function network element, or a gateway device in the foregoing embodiments.

[0138] It should be noted that, Figure 14 The computer system 1400 of the computer device shown is merely an example and should not impose any limitation on the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of this application.

[0139] like Figure 14As shown, the computer system 1400 may include a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 1401, which can perform various appropriate actions and processes based on a program stored in Read-Only Memory (ROM) 1402 or a program loaded from storage portion 1408 into Random Access Memory (RAM) 1403, such as performing the methods described in the above embodiments. Various programs and data required for system operation are also stored in RAM 1403. The CPU 1401, ROM 1402, and RAM 1403 are interconnected via bus 1404. An Input / Output (I / O) interface 1405 is also connected to bus 1404.

[0140] The following components can be connected to I / O interface 1405: input section 1406 including keyboard, mouse, etc.; output section 1407 including cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), etc., and speakers, etc.; storage section 1408 including hard disk, etc.; and communication section 1409 including network interface card, modem, etc. Communication section 1409 performs communication processing via a network such as the Internet. Drive 1410 is also connected to I / O interface 1405 as needed. Removable media 1411, such as disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, semiconductor memory, etc., are installed on drive 1410 as needed so that computer programs read from them can be installed into storage section 1408 as needed.

[0141] Specifically, according to embodiments of this application, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments of this application include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a computer-readable medium for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via communication section 1409, and / or installed from removable medium 1411. When the computer program is executed by central processing unit (CPU) 1401, it performs various functions defined in the system of this application.

[0142] It should be noted that the computer-readable medium shown in the embodiments of this application can be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium, or any combination of the two. A computer-readable storage medium can be, for example,—but not limited to—an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any combination thereof. More specific examples of a computer-readable storage medium may include, but are not limited to: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, optical fiber, portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage device, magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination thereof. In this application, a computer-readable storage medium can be any tangible medium containing or storing a computer program that can be used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. In this application, a computer-readable signal medium can include a data signal propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, carrying a computer-readable computer program. The transmitted data signal can take various forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or any suitable combination thereof. The computer-readable signal medium can also be any computer-readable medium other than a computer-readable storage medium, which can send, propagate, or transmit a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The computer program contained on the computer-readable medium can be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0143] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this application. Each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which contains one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in a block diagram or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in a block diagram or flowchart, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and a computer program.

[0144] The units described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in software or hardware, and the described units can also be located in a processor. The names of these units do not necessarily limit the specific unit itself.

[0145] In another aspect, this application also provides a computer-readable medium, which may be included in the computer device described in the above embodiments; or it may exist independently and not assembled into the computer device. The computer-readable medium carries one or more computer programs, which, when executed by the computer device, cause the computer device to perform the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0146] It should be noted that although several modules or units for the device used to perform actions have been mentioned in the detailed description above, this division is not mandatory. In fact, according to the embodiments of this application, the features and functions of two or more modules or units described above can be embodied in one module or unit. Conversely, the features and functions of one module or unit described above can be further divided and embodied by multiple modules or units.

[0147] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented by software or by combining software with necessary hardware. Therefore, the technical solutions according to the embodiments of this application can be embodied in the form of a software product, which can be stored in a non-volatile storage medium (such as a CD-ROM, USB flash drive, external hard drive, etc.) or on a network, and includes several instructions to cause a computer device to execute the method according to the embodiments of this application.

[0148] For example, computer equipment can be a core network element, and then the core network element can perform... Figure 6 The communication method shown; for example, a computer device can be a user plane function network element, then the user plane function network element can perform... Figure 7 The communication method shown; for example, a computer device can be a gateway device, then the gateway device can execute Figure 8 The communication method shown.

[0149] Other embodiments of this application will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein.

[0150] It should be understood that this application is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The communication method is executed by a core network element, and the communication method includes: Based on the information of the terminal devices joining the local area network, a local area network group is generated. The terminal devices include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. Configure processing policies for the user plane function network elements corresponding to the local area network group, so that the user plane function network elements can perform data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing policies.

2. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the terminal device includes the second type of device, then a local area network group is generated based on the information of the terminal devices joining the local area network, including: The gateway device receives the core network identifier of at least one terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device, and the at least one terminal device connects to the gateway device. The local area network group is generated based on the core network identifier of the at least one terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device.

3. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the terminal device includes the third type of device, then based on the information of the terminal devices joining the local area network, a local area network group is generated, including: The system receives the core network identifier of at least one terminal device sent by the gateway device, as well as the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device. The at least one terminal device connects to the core network based on the non-3GPP access method provided by the gateway device. The local area network group is generated based on the core network identifier of the at least one terminal device and the local area network information to be joined by the at least one terminal device.

4. The communication method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The core network identifier is assigned to the at least one terminal device by the gateway device, and the core network identifier is associated with the type of the gateway device.

5. The communication method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The core network identifier is obtained from the core network and assigned to the at least one terminal device by the gateway device, and the core network identifier has a mapping relationship with the internal identifier of the terminal device, which is used for communication within the local area network.

6. The communication method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The association between the core network identifier and the type of the gateway device includes: the association between the core network identifier and the network protocol type of the gateway device; The core network identifier associated with the network protocol type of the gateway device is used to enable the core network element to configure network transmission resources corresponding to the network protocol type.

7. The communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The terminal devices in the local area network have packet information, which is associated with the network type accessed by the terminal devices.

8. The communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The terminal devices in the local area network have packet information; the communication method further includes: It interacts with network elements in the core network to adjust the packet information of terminal devices in the local area network.

9. A communication method, characterized in that, The communication method is executed by a user plane function network element, and the communication method includes: The system receives processing policies for local area network groups configured by core network elements. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. Data routing is performed in the local area network group according to the processing strategy described above.

10. The communication method according to claim 9, characterized in that, Data routing is performed in the local area network group according to the processing strategy, including: Receive a data packet that needs to be sent to a designated terminal device in the local area network group, wherein the data packet contains the core network identifier of the designated terminal device; The data packet is routed to the device indicated by the core network identifier according to the core network identifier; wherein, if the device indicated by the core network identifier is the gateway device connected to the designated terminal device, the gateway device sends the data packet to the designated terminal device.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, The communication method is executed by the gateway device or relay device corresponding to the local area network group. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. The communication method includes: Receive a first data packet sent by the core network to a first terminal device in the local area network group, wherein the first data packet contains the core network identifier of the first terminal device; Based on the mapping relationship between the core network identifier and the internal identifier, the core network identifier of the first terminal device contained in the first data packet is replaced with the internal identifier of the first terminal device to obtain the second data packet; The second data packet is sent to the first terminal device.

12. The communication method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The communication method further includes: The system receives a third data packet that the second terminal device in the local area network needs to send to the core network. The third data packet contains the internal identifier of the second terminal device. According to the mapping relationship, the internal identifier of the second terminal device contained in the third data packet is replaced with the core network identifier of the second terminal device to obtain the fourth data packet; The fourth data packet is sent to the core network.

13. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is applied to a core network element, and the communication device includes: The generation unit is configured to generate a local area network group based on the information of the terminal devices joining the local area network. The terminal devices include at least two types of the following devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. The processing unit is configured to configure a processing policy for the user plane function network element corresponding to the local area network group, so that the user plane function network element performs data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing policy.

14. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is applied to a user plane function network element, and the communication device includes: The receiving unit is configured to receive the processing strategy for the local area network group configured by the core network element. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. The processing unit is configured to perform data routing processing in the local area network group according to the processing strategy.

15. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is applied to a gateway device or relay device corresponding to a local area network group. The terminal devices in the local area network group include at least two of the following types of devices: a first type of device that is directly connected to the core network through the access network, a second type of device that is connected to the core network through a gateway device connected to the access network, a third type of device that is connected to the core network through a non-3GPP access method, and a fourth type of device that is connected to the core network through a relay device. The communication device includes: The receiving unit is configured to receive a first data packet sent by the core network to a first terminal device in the local area network group, wherein the first data packet contains the core network identifier of the first terminal device; The processing unit is configured to replace the core network identifier of the first terminal device in the first data packet with the internal identifier of the first terminal device according to the mapping relationship between the core network identifier and the internal identifier, so as to obtain the second data packet; The sending unit is configured to send the second data packet to the first terminal device.

16. A computer-readable medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

17. A computer device, characterized in that, include: One or more processors; A memory for storing one or more computer programs that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the computer device to implement the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

18. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program stored in a computer-readable storage medium, wherein a processor of a computer device reads from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer program, causing the computer device to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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