Network selection method and communication device

Abstract

This disclosure discloses a network selection method and apparatus applicable to the telecommunications technology, the method being performed by a terminal device includes the steps of: obtaining network information for at least one selectable SNPN; and determining a target SNPN to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNPNs. This allows the terminal device to simultaneously consider validity conditions when selecting a network, thereby improving the efficiency of network selection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technologies, and in particular, to a network selection method and apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] A non-public network (NPN) is a non-public 5th generation (5GS) communication network used to provide network services to specific users. The NPN may be implemented depending on the support of a public land mobile network (PLMN) (also called a public network), or may be implemented without depending on the support of the PLMN. Here, an NPN that does not depend on the support of the PLMN is called a standalone NPN (SNPN) (also called a private network, a proprietary network, or a non-public network).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a network selection method and apparatus that enable a terminal device to simultaneously consider validity conditions during network selection, thereby improving the efficiency of network selection.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a network selection method executed by a terminal device, the method including: obtaining network information of at least one selectable standalone non-public network (SNPN); and determining a target SNPN to select for registration based on the network information of the selectable SNPN and selection policy information, The selection policy information includes A first list including a network identifier for a first candidate SNPN for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, A second list including a network identifier of a second candidate SNPN for authentication information holder control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second SNPN, It includes at least one of a third list containing a candidate group identifier (GIN) for authentication information holder control, third priority information, and a third validity condition corresponding to the candidate GIN.

[0005] In this technical solution, the terminal device obtains network information for at least one selectable SNPN, and based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNPN, it determines the target SNPN to select for registration, the selection policy information includes at least one of the first list, the second list, and the third list. This allows the terminal device to simultaneously consider validity conditions when selecting a network, thereby improving the efficiency of network selection.

[0006] In a second embodiment, embodiments of the present disclosure provide another network selection method performed by an access network device, the method comprising the step of transmitting instruction information to a terminal device, the instruction information being used to instruct network information for at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information being used by the terminal device to obtain network information for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0007] In a third embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device that implements some or all of the functions of a terminal device in the method described in the first embodiment. For example, the functions of the communication device may include functions in some or all embodiments of the present disclosure, or functions that individually implement any one of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The functions may be implemented in hardware, or by running corresponding software in hardware. The hardware or software may include one or more units or modules that correspond to the functions described above.

[0008] In one implementation, the structure of the communication device may include a transmit / receive module and a processing module, wherein the processing module is configured to support the communication device in performing the functions described in this method. The transmit / receive module is configured to support communication between the communication device and other devices. The communication device may further include a storage module connected to the transmit / receive module and the processing module for storing computer programs and data necessary for the communication device.

[0009] In one implementation, the communication device comprises a processing module configured to acquire network information for at least one selectable SNPN, and the processing module is also configured to determine a target SNPN to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNPNs. The selected policy information is, A first list including a network identifier for a first candidate SNPN for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, A second list including a network identifier of a second candidate SNPN for authentication information holder control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second SNPN, It includes at least one of a third list containing a candidate group identifier (GIN) for authentication information holder control, third priority information, and a third validity condition corresponding to the candidate GIN.

[0010] In a fourth embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides another communication device which implements some or all of the functions of the access network device described in the method of the second embodiment. For example, the functions of the communication device may include the functions of some or all embodiments of the present disclosure, or may include functions that individually implement any one of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The functions may be implemented in hardware, or by running corresponding software in hardware. The hardware or software may include one or more units or modules that correspond to the functions described above.

[0011] In one implementation, the structure of the communication device may include a transceiver module and a processing module, wherein the processing module is configured to support the communication device in performing the corresponding functions in this method. The transceiver module is configured to support communication between the communication device and other devices. The communication device may further include a storage module connected to the transceiver module and the processing module for storing computer programs and data necessary for the communication device.

[0012] In one implementation, the communication device comprises a transceiver module configured to transmit instruction information to a terminal device, the instruction information being used to instruct network information of at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information being used for the terminal device to obtain network information of at least one selectable SNPN.

[0013] In a fifth embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device comprising a processor, wherein when the processor invokes a computer program in memory, the method described in the first embodiment is performed.

[0014] In a sixth embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device comprising a processor, wherein when the processor invokes a computer program in memory, the method described in the second embodiment is performed.

[0015] In a seventh embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device comprising a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory, and causing the communication device to perform the method described in the first embodiment.

[0016] In an eighth embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device comprising a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory, and causing the communication device to perform the method described in the second embodiment.

[0017] In a ninth embodiment of the present disclosure, an embodiment provides a communication device comprising a processor and an interface circuit, wherein the interface circuit is configured to receive and transmit code instructions to the processor, and the processor executes the code instructions to cause the device to perform the method described in the first embodiment.

[0018] In a tenth embodiment of the present disclosure, an embodiment provides a communication device comprising a processor and an interface circuit, wherein the interface circuit is configured to receive and transmit code instructions to the processor, and the processor executes the code instructions to cause the device to perform the method described in the second embodiment.

[0019] In an eleventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a network selection system comprising a communication device described in a third aspect and a communication device described in a fourth aspect, or a communication device described in a fifth aspect and a communication device described in a sixth aspect, or a communication device described in a seventh aspect and a communication device described in an eighth aspect, or a communication device described in a ninth aspect and a communication device described in a tenth aspect.

[0020] In a twelfth embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions used by the terminal device, and when the instructions are executed, causes the terminal device to perform the method described in the first embodiment.

[0021] In a thirteenth embodiment, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions used by an access network device, and when the instructions are executed, causes the terminal device to perform the method described in the second embodiment.

[0022] In a fourteenth aspect, the Disclosure further provides a computer program product, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the first aspect.

[0023] In a 15th aspect, the Disclosure further provides a computer program product, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the second aspect.

[0024] In a 16th aspect, the present disclosure provides a chip system, which includes at least one processor and an interface, and is configured to support a terminal device to implement functions described in the 1st aspect, such as determining or processing at least one of data and information described in the foregoing method. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory configured to store computer programs and data necessary for the terminal device. The chip system may be composed of a chip or composed of a chip and other individual components.

[0025] In a 17th aspect, the present disclosure provides a chip system, which includes at least one processor and an interface, and is configured to support an access network device to implement functions described in the 2nd aspect, such as determining or processing at least one of data and information described in the foregoing method. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory configured to store computer programs and data necessary for the access network device. The chip system may be composed of a chip or composed of a chip and other individual components.

[0026] In an 18th aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer program, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method described in the 1st aspect.

[0027] In a 19th aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer program, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method described in the 2nd aspect.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0028] To more clearly explain the technical solutions in the embodiments or background art of the present disclosure, the following describes the attached drawings necessary for use in the embodiments or background art of the present disclosure.

[0029] [Figure 1] This is an architecture diagram of the communication system provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0030] [Figure 2] This is an architecture diagram of another communication system provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0031] [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the alliance provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0032] [Figure 4] This is a flowchart of the network selection method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0033] [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of another network selection method provided in embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 6] This is a structural diagram of a communication device provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0035] [Figure 7] This is a structural diagram of another communication device provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0036] [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chip provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0037] To better understand the network selection method and apparatus disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure, we will first describe the communication system to which the embodiments of this disclosure apply.

[0038] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below, and examples of such embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. Throughout, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar elements, or elements having the same or similar function. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are illustrative and are intended to illustrate the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure. In the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, " / " means "or". For example, A / B can mean A or B. In this context, "and / or" simply indicates a relationship between related objects, and that there are three possible relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean that A exists alone, A and B exist together, or B exists alone.

[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure are applicable to a variety of communication systems, including LTE (Long-Term Evolution) systems, LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) systems, LTE time division duplex (TDD) systems, 5th generation (5G) mobile communication systems, or New Radio (NR) systems, or future communication systems and other similar communication systems.

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the network architecture of a communication system to which this disclosure applies. According to the protocol standards of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), this network architecture includes four components: user equipment (UE), access network (AN) devices, core network (core), and data network (DN). Here, the access network devices may also be radio access network (RAN) devices.

[0041] Terminal devices, (wireless) access network devices, and the core network are the main components of the network architecture described above. Logically, these can be divided into two parts: the user plane and the control plane. The control plane is responsible for managing the mobile network, while the user plane is responsible for transmitting service data. For example, as shown in Figure 1, in a 5G communication system, the next generation (NG)2 reference point is located between the control plane of the (wireless) access network device and the control plane of the core network, the NG3 reference point is located between the user plane of the (wireless) access network device and the user plane of the core network, and the NG6 reference point is located between the user plane of the core network and the data network.

[0042] The following sections will provide a detailed explanation of each component of the network architecture described above.

[0043] 1. A terminal device is a device equipped with wireless transmission and reception capabilities, which functions as a gateway for mobile users to interact with the network, provides basic computing and storage functions, displays a service window to the user, and accepts user input. The terminal device can communicate with the core network or data network via a (wireless) access network device and exchange voice and / or data with the (wireless) access network device. Exemplarily, in a 5G communication system, a NextGen UE (NG UE) can use New Radio (NR) technology to establish signal and data connections with a (wireless) access network device and transmit control signals and service data to the network.

[0044] Exemplary examples of terminal devices include wireless terminal devices, mobile terminal devices, device-to-device (D2D) terminal devices, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) terminal devices, machine-to-machine / machine-type communications (M2M / MTC) terminal devices, Internet of Things (IoT) terminal devices, subscriber units, subscriber stations, mobile stations, remote stations, access points (APs), remote terminals, access terminals, user terminals, user agents, or user devices. For example, terminal devices can be mobile phones, tablet computers (Pads), computers with wireless transmission and reception capabilities, portable, pocket-sized, handheld, or mobile devices with built-in computers. As another example, terminal devices may include virtual reality (VR) terminal devices, augmented reality (AR) terminal devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, terminal devices in future public land mobile networks (PLMN), or vehicle devices in V2X, customer premises equipment (CPE), etc.As another example, the terminal device may be a personal communication service (PCS) phone, a cordless phone, a session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, or a personal digital assistant (PDA).

[0045] Terminal devices may, but are not limited to, wearable devices. Wearable devices are a general term for devices developed by intelligently designing everyday wear items such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes, using wearable technology. Wearable devices are portable devices that are worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices, but achieve powerful functionality through software support, data exchange, and cloud connectivity. In a broad sense, wearable smart devices include not only large, fully-featured devices that function completely or partially independently of smartphones, such as smartwatches and smart glasses, but also devices specialized for specific applications that require integration with other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets for vital sign monitoring, smart helmets, and smart jewelry. When the above terminal devices are installed in a vehicle (for example, installed or mounted inside a vehicle), they are considered in-vehicle terminal devices. In-vehicle terminal devices are also called, for example, on-board units (OBUs).

[0046] Terminal devices can be installed indoors or outdoors, on land, on water (e.g., on ships), or in the air (e.g., on aircraft, balloons, satellites), including handheld, wearable, and vehicle-mounted types. Embodiments of this disclosure do not limit the specific technologies, device forms, application scenarios, or names used in terminal devices.

[0047] 2. A (wireless) access network device is installed near terminal devices, provides network access functionality to authorized users within a specific area, and can transmit user data by determining transmission tunnels of various qualities based on user level and service needs. The (wireless) access network device manages and rationally utilizes its own resources, provides access services to terminal devices on demand, and is responsible for transferring control signals and service data between terminal devices and the core network.

[0048] A (wireless) access network device is installed to connect terminal devices to a wireless network. A (wireless) access network device can typically be connected to the core network via a wired link (e.g., fiber optic cable). A (wireless) access network device may also be called a RAN device / node or base station.

[0049] Exemplary examples of (wireless) access network devices include base stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs) in LTE systems or evolved LTE systems (LTE-Advanced, LTE-A), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs) in 5G communication systems, transmission reception points (TRPs), base band units (BBUs), access points (APs) in wireless local area networks (WLANs), integrated access and backhaul (IAB) nodes, base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access nodes in WiFi systems. Wireless access network devices may also be modules or units that perform some of the functions of a base station, such as central units (CUs) or distributed units (DUs).

[0050] For example, in a certain network architecture, a (wireless) access network device may be a CU node, a DU node, or a (wireless) access network device including both CU and DU nodes. Here, the CU node supports protocols such as radio resource control (RRC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), and service data adaptation protocol (SDAP), while the DU node supports radio link control (RLC) layer protocols, medium access control (MAC) layer protocols, and physical layer protocols.

[0051] (Wireless) access network devices may be deployed indoors or outdoors, on land, on water (such as on a ship), or in the air (e.g., on an aircraft, balloon, or satellite), including handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted types. Embodiments of this disclosure do not limit the specific technologies, device forms, application scenarios, or names used in (wireless) access network devices. In embodiments of this disclosure, (wireless) access network devices may be referred to as access network (AN) devices. Unless otherwise specified, any access network device referred to below may be a (wireless) access network device.

[0052] 3. The core network is responsible for maintaining mobile network subscriber data, managing mobile network elements, and providing terminal devices with functions such as session management, mobility management, policy management, and security authentication. Specifically, it provides terminal devices with network access authentication when they connect, allocates network resources when terminal devices request services, updates network resources for terminal devices when they move, provides terminal devices with a fast recovery mechanism when they are idle, releases network resources for terminal devices when they disconnect, and provides data routing functions such as transferring uplink data to the data network and receiving downlink data from the data network and transferring it to (wireless) access network devices and sending it to terminal devices when terminal devices have service data.

[0053] 4. The data network is used to provide services to users. In the actual communication process, the client is usually located on a terminal device, and the server is usually located on the data network. The data network may be a private network such as a local area network, an external network not managed by a carrier such as the Internet, or a dedicated network jointly deployed by carriers, such as a network providing IP multimedia core network subsystem (IMS) services.

[0054] Figure 2 shows a more specific network architecture to which embodiments of this disclosure can be applied, and this network architecture may be the network architecture of a 5G communication system. As shown in Figure 2, this network architecture includes terminal devices, access network devices, various types of core network elements / functional entities, and a data network.

[0055] The core network user plane includes the user plane function (UPF). The core network control plane includes, but is not limited to, the access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), authentication server function (AUSF), network slice selection function (NSSF), network exposure function (NEF), network function repository function (NRF), policy control function (PCF), unified data management (UDM), and application function (AF).

[0056] Here, AMF is primarily responsible for terminal device access management and mobility management, including maintaining terminal device status, managing terminal device reachability, forwarding non-mobility management access layer (MM NAS) messages, and forwarding session management (SM) N2 messages.

[0057] SMF (Single-Session Path) is primarily responsible for session management in mobile networks, including establishing sessions for terminal devices and allocating and releasing session resources. These resources include session quality of service (QoS), session paths, and forwarding rules. For example, it might assign an Internet Protocol (IP) address to a terminal device and select a UPF (Urgent Packet Forwarding) to provide packet forwarding functionality.

[0058] The UPF is primarily responsible for connecting to external networks and forwarding user data packets according to SMF routing rules. For example, it sends uplink data to the data network or other UPFs, and downlink data to other UPFs or access network devices.

[0059] AUSF is primarily responsible for security authentication of terminal devices.

[0060] NSSF's primary responsibility is to select the appropriate network slice for the service being provided to the terminal.

[0061] NEF exposes certain network functions to applications in a controlled manner.

[0062] The NRF's primary role is to provide other network elements with storage and selection functions for network function entity information.

[0063] PCF is primarily responsible for user policy management, including policy authentication, quality of service, and billing rule generation. It sends the corresponding rules to UPF via SMF to complete the installation of the corresponding policies and rules.

[0064] The UDM is primarily responsible for managing user data such as subscription information, context, and policy information. Although not shown in Figure 2, the network architecture shown in Figure 2 may also include a unified data repository (UDR), and the functionality of the UDM can be implemented through interaction with the UDR. The UDR is used to store the data necessary for the operation of the UDM, and the UDM is used to interact with other network elements. In actual implementations, the UDM and UDR may be configured as separate physical entities, or the UDR may be integrated into the UDM; however, this is not limited to the UDM.

[0065] AF is primarily responsible for providing service data for various applications to the control plane network elements of a telecommunications carrier's network, or for acquiring network data information and control information from the control plane network elements of the network.

[0066] For example, in the network architecture shown in Figure 2, the interface between the terminal device and the AMF is called the N1 interface, the interface between the access network device and the AMF is called the N2 interface, the interface between the access network device and the UPF is called the N3 interface, the interface between the UPF and the SMF is called the N4 interface, and the interface between the UPF and the data network is called the N6 interface. Of course, in future communication systems, these interface names may remain the same or be replaced with other names, and this disclosure is not limited to these.

[0067] It should be noted that the core network control plane can adopt a service-based architecture, where each control plane network element is connected to a service bus, and interactions between control plane network elements utilize service calls instead of point-to-point communication in traditional core network architectures. In a service-based architecture, control plane network elements expose services to other control plane network elements for them to call. In point-to-point communication, the communication interface between control plane network elements has a specific message set that can only be used by the control plane network elements at both ends of the interface.

[0068] It should be understood that the communication systems described in the embodiments of this disclosure are intended to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that as system architectures evolve and new business scenarios emerge, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure are similarly applicable to similar technical challenges.

[0069] To facilitate understanding of the technical solutions of this disclosure, some terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure are briefly introduced below.

[0070] 1. Non-public network (NPN)

[0071] NPN is a non-public 5G network applicable in locations such as businesses and factories. NPN can be implemented as a public network integrated NPN (PNI-NPN) utilizing support from a public land mobile network (PLMN), or as a standalone non-public network (SNPN) independent of the PLMN's network capabilities.

[0072] 2.SNPN

[0073] SNPNs are deployed independently of PLMNs and are not dependent on them. SNPNs are identified by a PLMN ID plus a network identifier (NID). The PLMN ID may be a unique value reserved by a third-party operator, or it may be a specific value of the PLMN operator deploying this SNPN.

[0074] Cell broadcast information transmitted from a cell within an SNPN includes a PLMN ID and NID. Terminal devices select which SNPN to access based on the cell broadcast information and the configured network selection configuration information. If a terminal device detects that the PLMN ID and NID in the network selection configuration information are different from the PLMN ID and NID broadcast from the network, it will not choose to access that SNPN. A difference between the PLMN ID and NID in the network selection configuration information and the PLMN ID and NID broadcast from the network means that the PLMN in the network selection configuration information is different from the PLMN broadcast from the network, and / or the NID in the network selection configuration information is different from the NID broadcast from the network.

[0075] The 3GPP Release 17 standard supports terminal devices accessing an SNPN using credentials from a credentials holder (CH). If the CH provides a UDM or AUSF, this CH may be a PLMN or another SNPN. If the CH provides an Authentication, Authorization, Accounting (AAA-S) server, the CH may be an industry vendor.

[0076] 3. Group ID for network selection (GIN)

[0077] When different CHs form an alliance, each alliance is identified by a GIN.

[0078] If an SNPN is connected to or has contracts with one or more alliances, terminal devices can access this SNPN using authentication credentials from any of the CHs belonging to those alliances. Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of an alliance. An alliance includes one or more CHs, each of which can be a PLMN, an SNPN, or an industry vendor. In Figure 3, the CH is an SNPN as an example.

[0079] Referring to Figure 3, SNPN A through SNPN E form Alliance 1, and SNPN F through SNPN J form Alliance 2, with Alliance 1 identified by GIN1 and Alliance 2 identified by GIN2. Furthermore, SNPN X has connectivity or a protocol with Alliance 1, and the cell broadcast information transmitted by the radio access network device in SNPN X includes GIN1, indicating that SNPN X supports Alliance 1. SNPN Y has connectivity or a protocol with both Alliance 1 and Alliance 2, and the cell broadcast information transmitted by the radio access network device in SNPN Y includes GIN1 and GIN2, indicating that SNPN Y supports both Alliance 1 and 2.

[0080] If a terminal device is configured with an identifier of an Alliance 1 member, such as an identifier of SNPN A, the terminal device may select either SNPN X or SNPN Y. If a terminal device is configured with an identifier of an Alliance 2 member, such as an identifier of SNPN F, but not with any identifier of any Alliance 1 member, the terminal device can select SNPN Y, but cannot select SNPN X. Furthermore, any member of an Alliance, such as SNPN A or SNPN F, can dynamically update the network selection configuration information for GIN on the terminal device.

[0081] In the CH-based architecture, a new SNMP selection mechanism has been defined. In this mechanism, the network selection configuration information on the terminal device, the cell broadcast information transmitted from the access network device, and the SNMP selection method of the terminal device are as follows:

[0082] 1) The network selection configuration information on the terminal device includes one or more of the following a) to c):

[0083] a) User-controlled priority preferred SNPN list; The SNPNs in this SNPN list can be configured or updated by the user.

[0084] b) Prioritized priority SNPN list for CH control; The SNMPs in this SNMP list are controlled by the CH and can be configured or updated by the core network (CN).

[0085] c) Prioritized GIN list for CH control. Each GIN in this GIN list identifies a group consisting of multiple CHs, and this group is also called an alliance. The GINs in this GIN list are controlled by CH and can be configured or updated by CN.

[0086] 2) Cell broadcast information transmitted by an access network device includes one or more of the following a) to c):

[0087] a) First directive information indicating whether the SNPN on which the access network device is located supports terminal devices accessing this SNPN using the CH's authentication credentials;

[0088] b) The list of GINs supported by the SNMP where the access network device is located; The CHs supported by this SNPN are those identified by the GINs in the GIN list.

[0089] c) Second instructional information indicating whether registration attempts by terminal devices not explicitly configured to select the SNPN are permitted.

[0090] 3) The order in which terminal devices select an SNPN based on the terminal device's network selection configuration information is as follows:

[0091] a) Select the SNMP on which the access network device that sent the first instruction information is located, and the first instruction information indicates that the SNMP on which the access network device is located supports terminal devices accessing the SNMP using the CH's authentication information.

[0092] If cell broadcast information transmitted from multiple access network devices includes first instruction information, one SNPN is selected from the SNPNs where the multiple access network devices are located, in the following priority order.

[0093] Priority 1: Selects an SNPN from a user-controlled priority list of preferred SNPNs (following the priority order of SNPNs in the user-controlled priority list of preferred SNPNs); Priority 2: Selects an SNPN from the CH control's priority-based preferred SNPN list (following the priority order of the SNPNs in the CH control's priority-based preferred SNPN list); Priority 3: Select a broadcasted GIN from the CH control's prioritized GIN list, and then select the SNMP where the access network device broadcasting the GIN is located (following the priority order of the GINs in the CH control's prioritized GIN list); If SNPN is not selected using the method described above, perform step b) below.

[0094] b) Select the SNPN on which the access network device broadcasting the second instruction information is located, and indicate that the second instruction information permits registration attempts by terminal devices that are not explicitly configured to select the SNPN.

[0095] The following example illustrates this point.

[0096] Example 1: Assume that the network selection configuration information for terminal device 1 includes the following: a) {SNPN#1, SNPN#2, SNPN#3} as a user-controlled priority preferred SNPN list; b) {SNPN#4, SNPN#5, SNPN#6} as the priority SNPN list for CH control; c) {GIN#1, GIN#2, GIN#3} as a priority GIN list for CH control.

[0097] The network selection configuration information for terminal device 2 includes the following: a) {SNPN#7, SNPN#8, SNPN#9} as a user-controlled priority preferred SNPN list; b) {SNPN#10, SNPN#11, SNPN#12} as the priority SNPN list for CH control; c) {GIN#4, GIN#5, GIN#6} as the priority GIN list for CH control.

[0098] The cell broadcast information transmitted from access network device 1 (corresponding to SNPN#1) includes the following: a) First instruction information indicating that SNPN#1 supports terminal devices accessing SNPN#1 using CH authentication information; b) The GIN list supported by SNPN#1 is {GIN#1, GIN#2, GIN#3, GIN#4, GIN#5, GIN#6}; c) Second instruction information indicating that registration attempts by terminal devices not explicitly configured to select the aforementioned SNPN are not permitted.

[0099] The cell broadcast information transmitted by access network device 2 (compatible with SNPN#4) includes the following information: a) First directive information indicating that SNPN#4 supports terminal devices accessing SNPN#4 using CH authentication information; b) The GIN list supported by SNPN#4 is {GIN#1, GIN#2, GIN#3, GIN#4}; c) Second instruction information indicating that registration attempts are permitted by terminal devices that are not explicitly configured to select the aforementioned SNPN.

[0100] The cell broadcast information transmitted by access network device 3 (compatible with SNPN#10) includes the following information: a) First instruction information indicating that SNPN#10 supports terminal devices accessing SNPN#10 using CH authentication information; b) The GIN list supported by SNPN#10 is {GIN#1, GIN#2, GIN#3, GIN#4}; c) Second instruction information indicating that registration attempts are permitted by terminal devices that are not explicitly configured to select the aforementioned SNPN.

[0101] In the list within the network selection configuration information of the terminal device or the cell broadcast information transmitted from the access network device, please note that the order in which the elements appear in the list represents priority, with the first element having the highest priority and the last element having the lowest priority. For example, in the case of {SNPN#1, SNPN#2, SNPN#3}, the order from highest to lowest priority is SNPN#1, SNPN#2, SNPN#3.

[0102] According to the SNPN selection mechanism described above, terminal device #1 selects SNPN#1 from SNPN#1, SNPN#4, and SNPN#10, and terminal device #2 selects SNPN#10 from SNPN#1, SNPN#4, and SNPN#10.

[0103] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure, the following points will be explained.

[0104] First, in embodiments of this disclosure, “used to indicate” may include both direct and indirect indication. When information is described as being used to indicate A, it may include the information having A, or the information directly or indirectly indicating A, but it does not necessarily mean that the information has A.

[0105] If we call the information indicated by other information "indicated information," then there are various ways to indicate indicated information in the concrete implementation process. For example, indicated information can be indicated directly by the indicated information itself or by an index of such indicated information, but these are not limited to these. In addition, indicated information can be indicated indirectly by indicating other information, in which case a relationship exists between the other information and the indicated information. Alternatively, only a part of the indicated information may be indicated, with the remainder of the indicated information being known or agreed upon in advance. For example, specific information can be indicated using the order of each piece of information that has been agreed upon in advance (e.g., specified in a protocol), thereby reducing the indication overhead to some extent.

[0106] The information to be indicated may be transmitted as a whole or divided into multiple sub-informations and transmitted separately, and the transmission cycle and / or timing of these sub-informations may be the same or different. The specific transmission method is not limited to this disclosure. The transmission cycle and / or timing of these sub-informations may be predefined, for example, according to a protocol.

[0107] Secondly, the numbers 1, 2, and various other designations (e.g., "#1", "#2") used in this disclosure are merely distinctions for ease of explanation and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. They are used, for example, to distinguish different information.

[0108] Third, the embodiments of the present disclosure enumerate several embodiments in order to clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Of course, those skilled in the art will understand that the various embodiments provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented independently, in combination with other embodiments of the present disclosure, or independently or in combination with some other methods of the relevant technology. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0109] In related technologies, when selecting a network, the terminal device determines the priority order of at least one selectable SNPN based on the terminal device's network selection configuration information and attempts to register in that order.

[0110] However, the selectable SNMP is used to provide network services to specific terminal devices, and there are corresponding validity conditions that must be met. How to simultaneously consider these validity conditions in the network selection process is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed.

[0111] Based on this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network selection method in which a terminal device obtains network information for at least one selectable SNPN and determines a target SNPN to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNPN. This allows the terminal device to simultaneously consider validity conditions when selecting a network, thereby improving the efficiency of network selection.

[0112] The network selection method and apparatus provided in this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0113] Figure 4 shows a flowchart of a network selection method provided by embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, this method is performed by a terminal device and includes, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0114] In S41, network information for at least one selectable SNMP is obtained.

[0115] In embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device can acquire network information for at least one SNPN.

[0116] In some embodiments, a terminal device obtaining network information for at least one selectable SNPN includes receiving instruction information transmitted by an access network device and obtaining network information for at least one selectable SNPN based on the instruction information, the instruction information being used to indicate the network information for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0117] In embodiments of this disclosure, a terminal device can receive instruction information transmitted by an access network device, which is used to indicate network information for at least one selectable SNPN. Thus, the terminal device can obtain network information for at least one selectable SNPN based on the instruction information.

[0118] Terminal devices can receive instruction information transmitted via broadcast from access network devices.

[0119] Of course, terminal devices can also receive instruction information transmitted from access network devices by other means, and the embodiments of this disclosure are not particularly limited to this.

[0120] In S42, the target SNMP to be selected for registration is determined based on the network information and selected policy information of the selectable SNMPs.

[0121] In embodiments of this disclosure, if a terminal device obtains at least one selectable SNMP, it can determine a target SNMP to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNMP.

[0122] A terminal device can determine selection policy information, which may be the terminal device's network selection configuration information, or a part of the network selection configuration information, or may include both network selection configuration information and information other than network selection configuration information.

[0123] The selected policy information is, A first list comprising a network identifier of a first candidate SNPN for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, A second list comprising a network identifier of a second candidate SNPN for authentication information holder control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second SNPN, A third list comprising at least one of a third list containing a candidate group identifier GIN for authentication information holder control, a third priority information, and a third validity condition corresponding to the candidate GIN.

[0124] In embodiments of this disclosure, the selection policy information includes at least one of the first list, the second list, and the third list.

[0125] In embodiments of this disclosure, at least one of the first list, the second list, and the third list may be a new list different from the list in the network selection configuration information.

[0126] The first list includes the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN for user control, the first priority information, and the first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN.

[0127] In embodiments of this disclosure, the first list may be a reuse of an existing list, or it may be a new list containing a network identifier for a first candidate SNPN for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier for the first candidate SNPN.

[0128] In one implementation, the first list is a new list, and information from a user-controlled priority preferred SNPN list, such as the network identifier and first priority information of a user-controlled first candidate SNPN, may be added to the new first list.

[0129] In one implementation, the first list may reuse a user-controlled priority preferred SNPN list and add content to the user-controlled priority preferred SNPN list, such as information on the first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN.

[0130] It is understood that the information in the first list is stored locally on the terminal device and may be updated and maintained based on the terminal device's own information or the configuration of the access network device or core network device.

[0131] The second list includes a second candidate SNPN network identifier for authentication information owner control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the second SNPN network identifier.

[0132] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the second list may be a reuse of an existing list, or it may be a new list containing a second candidate SNPN network identifier for authentication information owner control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the second SNPN network identifier.

[0133] In one implementation, the second list may be a new list, or information from the prioritized preferred SNPN list for credential owner control, such as the network identifier and second priority information of the second candidate SNPN for credential owner control, may be added to the new second list.

[0134] In one implementation, the second list may reuse the priority preferred SNPN list for credential owner control, and content such as information on the second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN may be added to the priority preferred SNPN list for credential owner control.

[0135] It is understood that the information in the second list is stored locally on the terminal device and may be updated and maintained based on the terminal device's own information or the configuration of the access network device or core network device.

[0136] The third list includes candidate group identifiers (GINs) for credential owner control, third priority information, and third validity conditions corresponding to the candidate GINs.

[0137] In embodiments of this disclosure, the third list may be an existing list reused, or it may be a new list including candidate group identifiers (GINs) for authentication information owner control, third priority information, and third validity conditions corresponding to the candidate GINs.

[0138] In one implementation, the third list may be a new list, or information from the CH control priority priority GIN list, such as candidate group identifiers (GINs) for authentication information holder control and third priority information, may be added to the new third list.

[0139] In one implementation, the third list can reuse the CH control priority GIN list, and content such as candidate group identifiers (GINs) for authentication information holder control and information on the third validity condition can be added to the CH control priority GIN list.

[0140] It is understood that the information in the third list is stored locally on the terminal device and may be updated and maintained based on the terminal device's own information or the configuration of the access network device or core network device.

[0141] It should be noted that the above embodiments are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. Furthermore, the above embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The above embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0142] In embodiments of this disclosure, when the conditions requiring network selection are met, the terminal device can obtain network information for at least one selectable SNMP and determine a target SNMP to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNMP.

[0143] The conditions requiring network selection may be those described in the relevant technology or other conditions, and this disclosure does not impose any specific limitations.

[0144] In one possible implementation, if a terminal device supports access to an SNMP that provides access rights to localized services, and the end user permits access to the localized services, the terminal device may attempt to register with available SNMPs in a specified order for self-network selection. The terminal device may determine the target SNMP to select for registration by obtaining network information for at least one selectable SNMP, determining a specified order based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNMPs, and attempting to register with the selectable SNMPs in the specified order.

[0145] Optionally, the terminal device may support accessing the SNPN using the authentication credentials of the credential holder.

[0146] In some embodiments, the first validity condition includes first validity time information and / or first validity position information, or the second validity condition includes second validity time information and / or second validity position information, or the third validity condition includes third validity time information and / or third validity position information.

[0147] In embodiments of this disclosure, the first validity condition may include first validity time information and / or first validity position information.

[0148] Here, the first validity period information is the period during which access to the first candidate SNMP in the first list is permitted, and may be defined by a start time and an end time.

[0149] Here, the first valid location information may be area location information that permits access to the first candidate SNPN in the first list, such as geographic location information and / or service network tracking area information.

[0150] In embodiments of this disclosure, the second validity condition may include second validity time information and / or second validity position information.

[0151] Here, the second validity period information is the period during which access to the second candidate SNMP in the second list is permitted, and may be defined by a start time and an end time.

[0152] Here, the second valid location information may be area location information that permits access to the second candidate SNPN in the second list, such as geographic location information and / or service network tracking area information.

[0153] In embodiments of this disclosure, the third validity condition may include third validity time information and / or third validity position information.

[0154] Here, the third validity period information is the period during which access to the third candidate SNMP in the third list is permitted, and may be defined by a start time and an end time.

[0155] Here, the third valid location information may be area location information that permits access to the third candidate SNMP in the third list, such as geographic location information and / or service network tracking area information.

[0156] In some embodiments, the selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and the corresponding fourth validity condition.

[0157] In embodiments of this disclosure, the selection policy information may further include the previously registered SNPN and the corresponding fourth validity condition.

[0158] It is understood that the previously registered SNPN is stored locally on the terminal device, and the terminal device can determine and record the previously registered SNPN.

[0159] In some embodiments, the fourth validity condition includes fourth validity time information and / or fourth validity position information.

[0160] In embodiments of this disclosure, the fourth validity condition may include fourth validity time information and / or fourth validity location information.

[0161] Here, the fourth validity period information is the period during which access to the previously registered SNMP is permitted, and may be defined by a start time and an end time.

[0162] Here, the fourth valid location information may be regional location information that allows access to the previously registered SNPN, such as geographic location information and / or service network tracking area information.

[0163] In some embodiments, the selectable SNPN network information is: Selectable SNPN network identifiers, and Includes at least one of the selectable SNPN GINs.

[0164] In embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device can obtain network information for at least one selectable SNPN and obtain a network identifier for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0165] In embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device can obtain network information for at least one selectable SNMP and obtain a GIN for at least one selectable SNMP.

[0166] The above embodiments are not exhaustive and merely illustrate some of the embodiments. The above embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0167] In some embodiments, the determination of a target SNPN for registration by a terminal device based on selectable SNPN network information and selection policy information includes determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and its corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a first candidate SNPN, and first priority information; determining whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy a first validity condition based on the first priority sort; and determining the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN, where the first selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the first list.

[0168] In embodiments of the present disclosure, a terminal device can determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a first candidate SNPN, and first priority information.

[0169] Furthermore, based on the first priority sort, it is sequentially determined whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, and the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition is determined as the target SNPN, where the first selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the first list.

[0170] In the first exemplary embodiment, the network identifiers for selectable SNPNs include identifier ID#1 for SNPN#1, identifier ID#2 for SNPN#2, and identifier ID#5 for SNPN#5, the network identifiers for the first candidate SNPNs include identifier ID#2 for SNPN#2 and identifier ID#3 for SNPN#3, and the first priority information indicates that SNPN#2 comes first and SNPN#3 comes second.

[0171] Therefore, the selectable SNPNs present in the first list are SNPN#2 and SNPN#3, and the corresponding first priority sort can be determined to place SNPN#2 before SNPN#3.

[0172] Here, according to the first priority sort, we sequentially determine whether SNPN#2 and SNPN#3 satisfy the first validity condition.

[0173] In some cases, if SNPN#2 satisfies the first validity condition, SNPN#2 that satisfies the first validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0174] In another case, if SNPN#2 does not meet the first validity condition, then it is determined whether SNPN#3 meets the first validity condition. If SNPN#3 meets the first validity condition, then SNPN#3, which meets the first validity condition, is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0175] In some embodiments, the terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the candidate SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information, thereby satisfying the first condition. Based on the second priority sort, the terminal device sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, and determines the second selectable SNPN that satisfies the second validity condition as the target SNPN, where the second selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the second list.

[0176] The first condition is, No selectable SNPN exists in the first list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the first list satisfy the first validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the first list and satisfying the first validity condition failed to register during the registration process.

[0177] In embodiments of the present disclosure, a terminal device can satisfy the condition that there are no selectable SNPNs in the first list if the first condition is met.

[0178] The terminal device may determine that there are no selectable SNPNs in the first list, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPNs, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information.

[0179] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the first condition is met, the terminal device may satisfy the condition that none of the selectable SNPNs in the first list satisfy the first validity condition.

[0180] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information. Based on the first priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, and it is possible that none of the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition.

[0181] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the first condition is met, the terminal device can satisfy the condition that all selectable SNPNs present in the first list and satisfying the first validity condition have failed to register during the registration process.

[0182] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information. Based on the first priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, and determines the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN. All selectable SNPNs present in the first list and that satisfy the first validity condition may have failed to register during the registration process.

[0183] The embodiments described above are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. These embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only and do not specifically limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0184] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if a first condition is met, the terminal device can determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in a second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a second candidate SNPN, and second priority information.

[0185] Furthermore, based on the second priority sort, it is sequentially determined whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, and the second selectable SNPN that satisfies the second validity condition is determined as the target SNPN, where the second selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the second list.

[0186] Exemplary, continuing the first exemplary embodiment described above, if SNPN#3 does not satisfy the first validity condition, the terminal device can determine whether there is a selectable SNPN in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information.

[0187] Here, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN includes identifier ID#1 of SNPN#1 and identifier ID#4 of SNPN#4, and the second priority information indicates that SNPN#4 comes first and SNPN#1 comes second.

[0188] Therefore, we can determine that the selectable SNPN in the second list is SNPN#1, and since there is only one selectable SNPN, its second priority sort places SNPN#1 first.

[0189] Based on this, the terminal device can determine whether SNPN#1 meets the second validity condition.

[0190] In some cases, if SNPN#1 satisfies the second validity condition, SNPN#1 that satisfies the second validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0191] In some embodiments, the terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in a third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN of the selectable SNPN, candidate GIN, and third priority information, thereby satisfying the second condition, and then, based on the third priority sort, determines whether the selectable SNPN present in the third list satisfies the third validity condition, and determines the third selectable SNPN that satisfies the third validity condition as the target SNPN, where the third selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the third list.

[0192] Here, the second condition is, No selectable SNPN exists in the second list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the second list satisfy the second validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the second list and satisfying the second validity condition failed to register during the registration process.

[0193] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device can satisfy the condition that there are no selectable SNPNs in the second list if the second condition is met.

[0194] The terminal device may determine that there are no selectable SNMPs in the second list, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNMPs, the network identifier of the second candidate SNMP, and the second priority information.

[0195] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device can satisfy the condition that none of the selectable SNPNs in the second list satisfy the second validity condition if the second condition is met.

[0196] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information. Based on the second priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, and it is possible that none of the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition.

[0197] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the second condition is met, the terminal device can satisfy the condition that all selectable SNPNs present in the second list and satisfying the second validity condition have failed to register during the registration process.

[0198] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information. Based on the second priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list meet the second validity condition, and determines the second selectable SNPN that meets the second validity condition as the target SNPN. All selectable SNPNs present in the second list and that meet the second validity condition may have failed to register during the registration process.

[0199] The embodiments described above are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. These embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only and do not specifically limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0200] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if a second condition is met, the terminal device can determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in a third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN of the selectable SNPN, candidate GINs, and third priority information.

[0201] Furthermore, based on the third priority sort, it is sequentially determined whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, and the third selectable SNPN that satisfies the third validity condition is determined as the target SNPN, where the third selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the third list.

[0202] Exemplary, continuing the first exemplary embodiment described above, if SNPN#1 does not satisfy the second validity condition, the terminal device can determine whether there is a selectable SNPN in the third list and the corresponding third priority sort, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the third candidate SNPN, and the third priority information.

[0203] Here, the network identifier of the third candidate SNMP includes identifier ID#5 of SNMP#5 and identifier ID#6 of SNMP#6, and the third priority information indicates that SNMP#5 comes first and SNMP#6 comes second.

[0204] Therefore, we can determine that the selectable SNPN in the third list is SNPN#5, and since there is only one selectable SNPN, its second priority sort is SNPN#1 as the first.

[0205] Based on this, the terminal device can determine whether SNPN#5 meets the third validity condition.

[0206] In some cases, if SNPN#5 satisfies the third validity condition, SNPN#5 that satisfies the third validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0207] In some embodiments, determining a target SNPN to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of selectable SNPNs by a terminal device includes determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a first candidate SNPN, and first priority information; determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in a second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a second candidate SNPN, and second priority information; determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in a third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN, candidate GIN, and third priority information of the selectable SNPN; determining whether a selectable SNPN present in the first list satisfies a first validity condition based on the first priority sort; and determining the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN, wherein the first selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the first list.

[0208] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device can determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a first candidate SNPN, and first priority information; whether a selectable SNPN exists in a second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a second candidate SNPN, and second priority information; and whether a selectable SNPN exists in a third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN of a selectable SNPN, a candidate GIN, and third priority information.

[0209] Furthermore, based on the first priority sort, it is sequentially determined whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, and the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition is determined as the target SNPN, where the first selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the first list.

[0210] In a second exemplary embodiment, the network identifier for a selectable SNPN includes identifier ID#1 for SNPN#1, identifier ID#2 for SNPN#2, and identifier ID#5 for SNPN#5, and the network identifier for a first candidate SNPN includes identifier ID#2 for SNPN#2 and identifier ID#3 for SNPN#3, with the first priority information indicating that SNPN#2 comes first and SNPN#3 comes second. The network identifier for a second candidate SNPN includes identifier ID#1 for SNPN#1 and identifier ID#4 for SNPN#4, with the second priority information indicating that SNPN#4 comes first and SNPN#1 comes second. The network identifier for a third candidate SNPN includes identifier ID#5 for SNPN#5 and identifier ID#6 for SNPN#6, with the third priority information indicating that SNPN#5 comes first and SNPN#6 comes second.

[0211] Therefore, it can be determined that the selectable SNPNs in the first list are SNPN#2 and SNPN#3, the corresponding first priority sort is SNPN#2 before SNPN#3, the selectable SNPN in the second list is SNPN#1, and the selectable SNPN in the third list is SNPN#5.

[0212] Here, based on the first priority sort, we sequentially determine whether SNPN#2 and SNPN#3 satisfy the first validity condition.

[0213] In some cases, if SNPN#2 satisfies the first validity condition, SNPN#2 that satisfies the first validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0214] In another case, if SNPN#2 does not meet the first validity condition, it is then determined whether SNPN#3 meets the first validity condition. If SNPN#3 meets the first validity condition, SNPN#3, which meets the first validity condition, is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0215] In some embodiments, the terminal device sequentially determines, based on a second priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, where the first condition is satisfied. The second selectable SNPN that satisfies the second validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN, where the second selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the second list.

[0216] Here, the first condition is, No selectable SNPN exists in the first list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the first list satisfy the first validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the first list and satisfying the first validity condition failed to register during the registration process.

[0217] In embodiments of this disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the first condition, it is possible to satisfy the condition that there are no selectable SNPNs in the first list.

[0218] The terminal device may determine that there are no selectable SNPNs in the first list, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPNs, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information.

[0219] In embodiments of this disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the first condition, it is possible to satisfy the condition that none of the selectable SNPNs in the first list satisfy the first validity condition.

[0220] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information. Based on the first priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, and it is possible that none of the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition.

[0221] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if a terminal device satisfies the first condition, it can be assumed that all selectable SNPNs present in the first list and satisfying the first validity condition have failed to register during the registration process.

[0222] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information. Based on the first priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, and determines the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN. All selectable SNPNs present in the first list and that satisfy the first validity condition may have failed to register during the registration process.

[0223] The embodiments described above are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. The embodiments described above can be implemented individually or in combination. The embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a specific limitation on the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0224] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the first condition is met, the terminal device sequentially determines, based on a second priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, and determines the second selectable SNPN that satisfies the second validity condition as the target SNPN, where the second selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the second list.

[0225] As an example, continuing with the second exemplary embodiment described above, if SNPN#3 does not satisfy the first validity condition, the terminal device can determine whether SNPN#1 satisfies the second validity condition.

[0226] In some cases, if SNPN#1 satisfies the second validity condition, SNPN#1 that satisfies the second validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0227] In some embodiments, the terminal device sequentially determines, based on a third priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, where the second condition is satisfied. The third selectable SNPN that satisfies the third validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN, where the third selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the third list.

[0228] Here, the second condition is, No selectable SNPN exists in the second list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the second list satisfy the second validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the second list and satisfying the second validity condition failed to register during the registration process.

[0229] In embodiments of this disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the second condition, it is possible to satisfy the condition that there are no selectable SNPNs in the second list.

[0230] The terminal device may determine that there are no selectable SNMPs in the second list, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNMPs, the network identifier of the second candidate SNMP, and the second priority information.

[0231] In embodiments of this disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the second condition, it is possible to satisfy the condition that none of the selectable SNPNs in the second list satisfy the second validity condition.

[0232] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information. Based on the second priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, and it is possible that none of the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition.

[0233] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the second condition, it can be assumed that all selectable SNPNs present in the second list and satisfying the second validity condition have failed to register during the registration process.

[0234] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information. Based on the second priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list meet the second validity condition, and determines the second selectable SNPN that meets the second validity condition as the target SNPN. All selectable SNPNs present in the second list and that meet the second validity condition may have failed to register during the registration process.

[0235] The above embodiments are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. The above embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0236] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the second condition is met, the terminal device can, based on a third priority sort, sequentially determine whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, and determine the third selectable SNPN that satisfies the third validity condition as the target SNPN. Here, the third selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the third list.

[0237] Continuing the second exemplary embodiment described above, if SNPN#1 does not satisfy the second validity condition, the terminal device can determine whether SNPN#5 satisfies the third validity condition.

[0238] In some cases, if SNPN#5 satisfies the third validity condition, SNPN#5 that satisfies the third validity condition is determined to be the target SNPN.

[0239] In some embodiments, the terminal device determines that it has failed to select a network, and at this point, the third condition is met.

[0240] In embodiments of the present disclosure, a terminal device may determine that it has failed to select a network if it determines that a third condition is met.

[0241] Here, the third condition is, There are no selectable SNPNs in the third list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the third list satisfy the third validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the third list and satisfying the third validity condition failed to register during the registration process.

[0242] In embodiments of this disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the third condition, it is possible to satisfy the condition that there are no selectable SNPNs in the third list.

[0243] The terminal device may determine that there are no selectable SNMPs in the third list, based on the selectable SNMP GIN, candidate GIN, and third priority information.

[0244] In embodiments of this disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the third condition, it is possible to satisfy the condition that none of the selectable SNPNs in the third list satisfy the third validity condition.

[0245] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN of the selectable SNPN, candidate GIN, and third priority information, thereby satisfying the second condition. Based on the third priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, and it is possible that none of the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition.

[0246] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the terminal device satisfies the third condition, it can be assumed that all selectable SNPNs present in the third list and satisfying the third validity condition have failed to register during the registration process.

[0247] The terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN, candidate GIN, and third priority information of the selectable SNPN, where the second condition is met. Based on the third priority sort, it sequentially determines whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list meet the third validity condition, and determines the third selectable SNPN that meets the third validity condition as the target SNPN. All selectable SNPNs present in the third list and that meet the third validity condition may have failed to register during the registration process.

[0248] The embodiments described above are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. These embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0249] For illustrative purposes, continuing with the second exemplary embodiment described above, if SNPN#5 does not satisfy the third validity condition, it is determined that the network selection has failed.

[0250] In some embodiments, the selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and a corresponding fourth validity condition. This includes determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, before the terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, and determining the fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies the fourth validity condition as the target SNPN, where the fourth selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN.

[0251] In embodiments of this disclosure, the selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and the corresponding fourth validity condition.

[0252] Here, before the terminal device determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, the terminal device may determine whether a selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN exists based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, and may determine the fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies the fourth validity condition as the target SNPN. Here, the fourth selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN.

[0253] In some embodiments, the terminal device decides to cancel determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and the corresponding first priority sort, based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a first candidate SNPN, and first priority information.

[0254] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device determines a fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies a fourth validity condition as the target SNPN, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN. If the fourth selectable SNPN is identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN, the terminal device decides to cancel determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information.

[0255] The terminal device determines that a fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies the fourth validity condition is the target SNPN, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, and if the fourth selectable SNPN is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN, and the terminal device has already successfully selected a network, the terminal device may decide to cancel determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information.

[0256] In some embodiments, the terminal device decides to perform the following actions based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information: whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort, where the fourth condition is met.

[0257] Here, the fourth condition is, There are no selectable SNMPs that are the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNMP, The previously registered SNPN and any other selectable SNPNs that are identical or equivalent do not meet the fourth validity condition, This includes at least one of the following: a selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN failed to register during the registration process.

[0258] In embodiments of the present disclosure, if the fourth condition is met, the terminal device may decide to perform the following actions based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information: whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort.

[0259] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device determines that a fourth condition is met, which may include the absence of any selectable SNPNs that are identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN.

[0260] The terminal device may determine, based on the network identifiers of the selectable SNPNs and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, that there are no selectable SNPNs that are the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN.

[0261] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device determines that a fourth condition is met, which may include that no selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN satisfies the fourth validity condition.

[0262] The terminal device may determine, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, that there is a selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN, and that the selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN does not meet the fourth validity condition.

[0263] The above embodiments are not exhaustive and merely illustrate a few examples. The above embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. The above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0264] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device determines that a fourth condition is met, which may include that a selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN failed to register during the registration process.

[0265] The terminal device determines, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, that there is a selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN, and determines the fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies the fourth validity condition as the target SNPN, and that the selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN (the fourth selectable SNPN) may have failed to register during the registration process.

[0266] In this embodiment or example, each step can be performed independently, in any combination, or in any order, as long as it does not conflict. Selectable methods or examples can be combined in any way and may be combined with other embodiments or examples.

[0267] By implementing embodiments of this disclosure, a terminal device acquires network information for at least one selectable SNPN, determines a target SNPN to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information, the selection policy information includes at least one of a first list, a second list, and a third list. Thus, the terminal device can simultaneously consider validity conditions during network selection, thereby improving the efficiency of network selection.

[0268] Referring to Figure 5, Figure 5 is a flowchart of another network selection method provided by embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 5, this method is performed by an access network device and includes, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0269] In S51, instruction information is sent to the terminal device, where the instruction information specifies network information for at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information is used by the terminal device to obtain network information for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0270] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the access network device can send instruction information to the terminal device.

[0271] Here, the instruction information instructs the network information of at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information is used for the terminal device to obtain the network information of at least one selectable SNPN.

[0272] Here, the access network device can send the instruction information to the terminal device via broadcast.

[0273] Of course, the access network device may also send the instruction information to the terminal device in other ways, and is not particularly limited in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0274] In some embodiments, the network information of the selectable SNPN is the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, and includes at least one of the GINs of the selectable SNPNs.

[0275] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the terminal device can obtain the network information of at least one selectable SNPN and obtain the network identifier of at least one selectable SNPN.

[0276] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the terminal device can obtain the network information of at least one selectable SNPN and obtain the GIN of at least one selectable SNPN.

[0277] Note that the above embodiments are not exhaustive and are only illustrative of some embodiments. These embodiments can be implemented individually or in combination. These embodiments are provided only for the purpose of illustration and do not specifically limit the protection scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0278] In this embodiment or example, each step can be performed independently, in any combination, or in any order, as long as it does not conflict. Selectable methods or examples can be combined in any way and may be combined with other embodiments or examples.

[0279] By implementing embodiments of the present disclosure, an access network device transmits instruction information to a terminal device, where the instruction information specifies network information for at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information is used by the terminal device to obtain network information for at least one selectable SNPN. Thus, an access network device can transmit instruction information to a terminal device to specify network information for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0280] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure, exemplary embodiments are provided.

[0281] In exemplary embodiments, a localized service is a service provided in a specific or limited area and / or is time-limited. This service can be implemented through an application (e.g., an eVA, live or on-demand audio / video stream, electronic games, IMS, etc.) or a connection (e.g., between terminal devices, between terminal devices and a data network, etc.). A localized service provider is an application provider or network operator that localizes services and delivers them to end users via a hosting network. The hosting network may be an SNPN or a PNI-NPN.

[0282] Matters relating to the configuration and subscription of terminal devices in several embodiments

[0283] An SNPN-enabled UE needs to be configured with the following information for each SNPN it subscribes to. -PLMN ID and NID of the SNPN you are subscribed to; - The subscriber identifier (SUPI) and authentication information for the SNPN you are subscribed to; -(Optional) The fully qualified domain name (FQDN) of the N3IWF and the country / region identifier where the configured N3IWF is located; -(Optional) If the terminal device supports accessing SNPN using credentials from the credential holder: - User-controlled priority list of preferred SNMPs; - Priority list of preferred SNMPs for authentication information holder control, each entry in the list contains -SNPN identifier and, -(Optional) Includes validity information (if the terminal device supports access to SNPN, which provides access rights to localized services); - GIN priority list for authentication information holder control, each entry in the list contains -Group identifier for network selection, -(Optional) Includes validity information (if the terminal device supports access to SNPN, which provides access rights to localized services); - A protection scheme for concealing SUPI as defined in TS 33.501

[29] ; Note: Additionally, terminal devices can be configured to use anonymous SUCI as defined in TS 24.501

[47] .

[0284] Effectiveness information is, - Time validity information, i.e., the period during which access to the SNMP is permitted (defined by a start time and an end time), and / or - Includes location validity information, and location validity information is, - Geographic location information, and / or - Includes tracking area information for the serving network, i.e., a TAC list for each PLMN ID, or for each PLMN ID and NID.

[0285] Note X: The location availability information is used to assist the terminal device in searching for the SNPN within the priority list of the SNPN and GIN under the control of the authentication information holder, and is not used for the application of area restrictions.

[0286] In some embodiments, whether it is possible to extend the priority list of the priority SNPN / GIN under the control of the authentication information holder, or 2) whether a new list type for providing entries containing availability information to the terminal device is defined, and whether any functional display is required for the terminal device that supports these availability conditions are FFS and determined by CT1.

[0287] Question 1: For the purpose of selecting the SNPN hosting network, is CT1 considering whether to extend the existing CH control priority list of the priority SNPN / GIN with selectable availability conditions, or to define a new CH control SNPN / GIN priority list containing selectable availability conditions?

[0288] CT1 confirmed the requirements of SA2 regarding the use of these lists in the automatic SNPN selection described in S2-2301443 and determined the following.

[0289] -(a) The entries in the priority list of the priority SNPN of CH control and (b) the entries in the priority list of the priority GIN of CH control are used in different steps of SNPN selection depending on whether there are availability conditions for the entries.

[0290] -(a) The entries in the priority list of the priority SNPN of CH control and (b) the entries in the priority list of the priority GIN of CH control are used only when they have availability conditions and support the terminal device's access to the SNPN that provides access rights to the localized service and the user has permitted access to the localized service.

[0291] Based on the above, CT1 recommends specifying (a) a new priority list of preferred SNPNs for CH control to access localized services, and (b) a new list of preferred GINs for CH control to access localized services.

[0292] Note 1: If a terminal device has multiple SNPN subscriptions, it is assumed that the subscription used for automatic selection will be determined by a specific implementation method before network selection.

[0293] In some embodiments, if the terminal device supports access to an SNPN that provides access to localized services, and the end user has permitted access to the localized services, the terminal device will attempt to select and register for available SNPNs in the following order for automatic network selection.

[0294] In some embodiments, (a) if the terminal device supports access to an SNPN using credentials from the credential holder, the terminal device continues to attempt to select and register for an available and acceptable SNPN, which broadcasts support for access using the credential holder's credentials, in the following order:

[0295] i. UE has an SNPN with the previously registered validity information (if the validity information is met); Editor's note: whether an equivalent SNPN has the same validity information as the SNPN that provides the UE with access to the localization service previously registered for FFS; ii. If validity information is available and the conditions are met, the SNPN in the priority list of preferred SNPNs for credential holder control (in order of priority); entries in the preferred SNPN list without validity information are ignored; iii. SNPN broadcasts additional GINs included in the priority list of preferred GINs for credential holder control (in order of priority) if validity information is available and the conditions are met; entries in the priority GIN list without validity information are ignored.

[0296] In some embodiments, (b) the terminal device has an SNPN (if available) without validity information from the last time it was registered, or an equivalent SNPN (if available); In some embodiments, (c) the terminal device is identified by a PLMN ID and NID having SUPI and authentication information, and is a joined SNPN; In some embodiments, (d) available and permissible SNPNs that broadcast instructions indicating that access using credentials from a credential holder is supported in the following order: i. SNPN (priority order) in the priority list of user-controlled priority SNPNs; ii. An SNPN (priority order) in the priority list of preferred SNPNs for authentication information holder control, which does not have validity information; iii. GINs included in the priority list (priority order) of preferred SNPNs for authentication information holder control are further broadcast, but without validity information; iv An SNPN that also broadcasts that allows registration attempts from UEs that are not explicitly configured to select an SNPN, i.e., the broadcasted NID or GIN is not present in the priority list of preferred SNPNs / GINs for credential holder control within the terminal device.

[0297] In some embodiments, if a terminal device supports access to an SNPN that provides access to localized services, and the end user permits access to the localized services, the UE must periodically attempt to re-select and register a higher-priority SNPN: 1) If the terminal device is not registered in sub-item (i) of item (a), then in the order of sub-items (i) through (iii) of item (a), item (c), and sub-items (i) through (iii) of item (d); or 2) If the terminal device is already registered in sub-item (i) of item (a), and any of the following conditions are met, then in the order of sub-items (ii) through (iii) of item (a), item (c), and sub-items (i) through (iii) of item (d): - One or more SNPNs have validity information, and the terminal device is not registered in the SNPN with the highest priority among the one or more SNPNs; or - No SNPN exists with validity information fulfilled, one or more GINs exist with validity information fulfilled, and the terminal device is not registered with an SNPN that broadcasts the GIN with the highest priority among the one or more GINs; or - If no SNPN with validity information is available, no GIN with validity information is available, and the terminal device is not registered with the subscribed SNPN. Otherwise, the terminal device will not trigger periodic re-selection or attempts to register with a higher-priority SNPN.

[0298] Note: Details of network selection (e.g., processing of effectiveness information, periodic decisions) are specified in TS 23.122

[17] .

[0299] In some embodiments, if the terminal device does not support access to an SNPN that provides access to localized services, or if the end user cannot access localized services, the terminal device should select available and permitted SNPNs in the following order for automatic network selection and perform a registration attempt. - The terminal device does not have an SNPN (if available) with validity information from the previous registration, or an equivalent SNPN (if available); - The terminal device is identified by its PLMN ID and NID, which contain SUPI and authentication information; -If the terminal device supports access to SNPNs using credentials from the credential holder, the terminal device will continue attempting to select and register for available and acceptable SNPNs, and these SNPNs will broadcast support for access using the credential holder's credentials, in the following order: -SNPN (priority order) in the priority list of user-controlled preferred SNPNs; In embodiments of this disclosure, a new list of preferred SNPNs, including validity information, is defined for a terminal device to select a hosting network to provide localized services. A new network selection is then defined based on this new list.

[0300] In some embodiments, a new list of SNPN / GINs that support localized services is defined as follows: - A user-controlled priority list of preferred SNPNs with validity conditions; - A priority list of preferred SNPNs for authentication information holder control, subject to validity conditions; - A GIN priority list with validity conditions, controlled by the holder of authentication information.

[0301] Validity conditions may include "validity period" and / or "location information".

[0302] Here, the selected policy information is: A first list comprising a network identifier of a first candidate SNPN for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, A second list comprising a network identifier of a second candidate SNPN for authentication information holder control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second SNPN, A third list comprising at least one of a third list containing candidate group identifiers (GINs) for authentication information holder control, third priority information, and third validity conditions corresponding to the candidate GINs.

[0303] In some embodiments, the selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and the corresponding fourth validity condition.

[0304] In some embodiments, the first validity condition includes first validity time information and / or first validity position information, or The second validity condition includes second validity time information and / or second validity location information, or The third validity condition includes third validity time information and / or third validity location information.

[0305] In some embodiments, the fourth validity condition includes fourth validity time information and / or fourth validity position information.

[0306] In some embodiments, the device further includes a transmit / receive module 11 configured to receive instruction information transmitted by an access network device, the instruction information being used to indicate network information for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0307] The processing module 12 is also configured to acquire network information for at least one selectable SNPN based on the instruction information.

[0308] In some embodiments, the selectable SNPN network information is: Selectable SNPN network identifiers, and Includes at least one of the selectable SNPN GINs.

[0309] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 is configured to further determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, and to sequentially determine whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy a first validity condition based on the first priority sort, and to determine the first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN, wherein the first selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN present in the first list.

[0310] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 further determines, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information, whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort, if the first condition is met, No selectable SNPN exists in the first list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the first list satisfy the first validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the first list and satisfying the first validity condition failed to register during the registration process, Based on the second priority sort, we sequentially determine whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition. The system is configured to determine a second selectable SNPN that satisfies a second validity condition as the target SNPN, the second selectable SNPN being a selectable SNPN that exists in the second list.

[0311] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 further determines, based on the GIN of the selectable SNPN, candidate GIN, and third priority information, whether a selectable SNPN exists in the third list and the corresponding third priority sort, where the second condition is met, and the second condition is No selectable SNPN exists in the second list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the second list satisfy the second validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the second list and satisfying the second validity condition failed to register during the registration process, Based on the third priority sort, it is sequentially determined whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition. The system is configured to determine a third selectable SNPN that satisfies a third validity condition as the target SNPN, the third selectable SNPN being a selectable SNPN that exists in the third list.

[0312] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 further determines whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information. Based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information, determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort. Based on the selectable SNPN's GIN, candidate GIN, and third priority information, determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in the third list and determine the corresponding third priority sort. Based on the first priority sort, it is sequentially determined whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition. The system is configured to determine a first selectable SNPN that satisfies a first validity condition as the target SNPN, the first selectable SNPN being a selectable SNPN that exists in the first list.

[0313] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 further determines, based on a second priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, and if the first condition is satisfied, the first condition is... No selectable SNPN exists in the first list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the first list satisfy the first validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the first list and satisfying the first validity condition failed to register during the registration process, The system is configured to determine a second selectable SNPN that satisfies a second validity condition as the target SNPN, the second selectable SNPN being a selectable SNPN that exists in the second list.

[0314] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 further determines, based on a third priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, and if the second condition is satisfied, the second condition is... No selectable SNPN exists in the second list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the second list satisfy the second validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the second list and satisfying the second validity condition failed to register during the registration process, The system is configured to determine a third selectable SNPN that satisfies a third validity condition as the target SNPN, the third selectable SNPN being a selectable SNPN that exists in the third list.

[0315] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 is further configured to determine that network selection has failed, a third condition is met, and the third condition is There are no selectable SNPNs in the third list. None of the selectable SNPNs in the third list satisfy the third validity condition. This includes at least one of the following: all selectable SNPNs present in the third list and satisfying the third validity condition failed to register during the registration process.

[0316] In some embodiments, the selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and a corresponding fourth validity condition, where, before determining whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, the processing module 12 is configured to further determine whether a selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN exists based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, and to determine the fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies the fourth validity condition as the target SNPN, where the fourth selectable SNPN is a selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN.

[0317] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 is further configured to determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in the first list and to cancel determining the corresponding first priority sort, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information.

[0318] In some embodiments, the processing module 12 is further configured to determine whether a selectable SNPN exists in a first list and the corresponding first priority sort, based on the network identifier of a selectable SNPN, the network identifier of a first candidate SNPN, and first priority information, provided that a fourth condition is met, and the fourth condition is There are no selectable SNMPs that are the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNMP, The previously registered SNPN and any other selectable SNPNs that are identical or equivalent do not meet the fourth validity condition, This includes at least one of the following: a selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN failed to register during the registration process.

[0319] Communication device 1 is configured on the access network device side. The device includes a transmit / receive module 11.

[0320] The transmit / receive module 11 is configured to send instruction information to a terminal device, which is used to instruct the terminal device to obtain network information for at least one selectable SNPN.

[0321] In some embodiments, the selectable SNPN network information is: Selectable SNPN network identifiers, and Includes at least one of the selectable SNPN GINs.

[0322] Regarding the communication device 1 in the above embodiment, the specific methods by which each module performs its operation are described in detail in the embodiment of the method and will not be described in detail here.

[0323] The communication device 1 provided in the above embodiments of this disclosure achieves the same or similar beneficial effects as the network selection method provided in some of the embodiments described above, and therefore will not be described further here.

[0324] As shown in Figure 7, Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another communication device 1000 provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 1000 may be a terminal device, an access network device, a chip, chip system, or processor etc. that supports the terminal device in carrying out the above method, or a chip, chip system, or processor etc. that supports the access network device in carrying out the above method. This communication device 1000 can be used to carry out the method described in the embodiment of the above method, and for details, refer to the description of the embodiment of the above method.

[0325] The communication device 1000 may include one or more processors 1001. The processors 1001 may be general-purpose processors or dedicated processors, for example, baseband processors or central processing units (CPUs). A baseband processor may be used for processing communication protocols and communication data, while a CPU may be used for controlling communication devices (e.g., access network devices, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), executing computer programs, and processing computer program data.

[0326] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may also include one or more memories 1002 capable of storing a computer program 1004. The memories 1002 execute the computer program 1004, enabling the communication device 1000 to perform the method described in the embodiments of the above method. Optionally, the memories 1002 may also store data. The communication device 1000 and the memories 1002 may be provided separately or as an integrated unit.

[0327] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may also include a transceiver 1005 and an antenna 1006. The transceiver 1005 may also be called a transmitting / receiving unit, transmitting / receiving device, or transmitting / receiving circuit, and is configured to implement transmitting and receiving functions. The transceiver 1005 may include a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver may also be called a receiving device or receiving circuit, and implements the receiving function, and the transmitter may also be called a transmitting device or transmitting circuit, and implements the transmitting function.

[0328] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may also include one or more interface circuits 1007. The interface circuits 1007 are configured to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor 1001. The processor 1001 executes the code instructions, causing the communication device 1000 to perform the method described in the embodiment of the above method.

[0329] The communication device 1000 is a terminal device, and the processor 1001 is configured to execute S41 and S42 in Figure 4.

[0330] The communication device 1000 is an access network device, and the transceiver 1005 is configured to perform S51 in Figure 5.

[0331] In one implementation, the processor 1001 may include a transceiver for implementing both receiving and transmitting functions. For example, the transceiver may be a transmit / receive circuit, interface, or interface circuit. The transmit / receive circuits, interfaces, or interface circuits used for implementing the receiving and transmitting functions may be separate or integrated. These transmit / receive circuits, interfaces, or interface circuits may be used for reading and writing code / data, or for transmitting or forwarding signals.

[0332] In one implementation, the processor 1001 may store a computer program 1003. When the computer program 1003 is executed on the processor 1001, it enables the communication device 1000 to perform the method described in the embodiment of the above-mentioned method. The computer program 1003 may be embedded in the processor 1001, in which case the processor 1001 may be implemented in hardware.

[0333] In one embodiment, the communication device 1000 may include a circuit that implements the transmission function, reception function, or communication function in the embodiment of the method described above. The processor and transceiver described herein can be mounted on integrated circuits (ICs), analog ICs, radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs), mixed-signal ICs, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), electronic devices, etc. The processor and transceiver can also be manufactured using various IC process technologies such as complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS), n-type metal oxide semiconductors (nMOS), positive channel metal oxide semiconductors (PMOS), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), bipolar CMOS (BiCMOS), silicon germanium (SiGe), and gallium arsenide (GaAs).

[0334] The communication device described in the above embodiment may be a terminal device or an access network device, but the scope of the communication device described in this disclosure is not limited to these, and the structure of the communication device may also be shown in the figure. 7The communication device may be a standalone device or part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may take the following forms: (1) an independent integrated circuit (IC), chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) A collection of one or more ICs (optionally, the collection of ICs may include storage components for storing data and computer programs); (3) ASICs such as modems; (4) Modules that can be incorporated into other devices; (5) Receivers, terminal devices, intelligent terminal devices, mobile phones, wireless devices, handheld devices, mobile units, in-vehicle devices, access network devices, cloud devices, artificial intelligence devices, etc. (6) Others.

[0335] In the case where the communication device is a chip or chip system, see Figure 8 This is a structural diagram of the chip provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0336] The chip 1100 includes a processor 1101 and an interface 1103. The number of processors 1101 may be one or more, and the number of interfaces 1103 may be multiple.

[0337] When the chip is used to perform the functions of a terminal device in an embodiment of the present disclosure, Interface 1103 is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor.

[0338] The processor 1101 is configured to execute code instructions to perform the network selection method described in some of the embodiments above.

[0339] When the chip is used to perform the functions of an access network device in an embodiment of the present disclosure, Interface 1103 is configured to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor.

[0340] The processor 1101 is configured to execute code instructions to perform the network selection method described in some of the embodiments above.

[0341] Optionally, the chip 1100 further includes memory 1102 for storing necessary computer programs and data.

[0342] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the various exemplary logic blocks and steps enumerated in the embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Whether these functions are implemented using hardware or software depends on the specific application and the overall system design requirements. Those skilled in the art may use various methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementations should not be construed as exceeding the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0343] This disclosure also provides a network selection system, which is shown in the Figure above. 6 In this embodiment, the system includes a communication device which is a terminal device and a communication device which is an access network device, or the above-mentioned figure 7 In this embodiment, the system includes a communication device which is a terminal device and a communication device which is an access network device.

[0344] The disclosure also provides a readable storage medium in which instructions are stored, and when such instructions are executed by a computer, any of the functions of the embodiments of the method described above are realized.

[0345] This disclosure also provides a computer program product that, when executed by a computer, realizes any of the functions of the embodiments of the methods described above.

[0346] In the embodiments described above, all or part of the embodiments may be implemented using software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, all or part of the embodiments may be implemented in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs. When the computer programs are loaded into a computer and executed, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this disclosure are generated. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a dedicated computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer programs may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer programs may be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via a wired connection (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless connection (e.g., infrared, radio, microwave, etc.). The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium accessible to a computer, or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. Available media may include magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., high-density digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state drives (SSDs)). Those skilled in the art will understand that the various numerical numbers, such as "First" and "Second," in this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure or to indicate a sequence.

[0347] In this disclosure, “at least one” may also be written as “one or more,” and “more” may be two, three, four, or more, but is not limited to this disclosure. In embodiments of this disclosure, technical features are distinguished using “first,” “second,” “third,” “A,” “B,” “C,” “D,” etc. There is no priority or importance among the technical features described as “first,” “second,” “third,” “A,” “B,” “C,” and “D.”

[0348] Depending on the context, the terms "if" and "and" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "on the occasion," or "depending on the decision."

[0349] The correspondences shown in each table of this disclosure may be constructed or predefined. The values ​​of the information in each table are merely examples and can be set to other values, and are not limited by this disclosure. When constructing the correspondence between information and parameters, it is not necessary to construct all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondence shown in a particular row of a table in this disclosure may not be constructed. As another example, the above tables may be modified or adjusted as appropriate, such as by splitting or merging. The names of the parameters shown in the titles of the above tables may be other names that the communication device can understand, and the values ​​or representations of those parameters may also be other values ​​or representations that the communication device can understand. When implementing the above tables, other data structures such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear tables, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, and hash tables may also be used.

[0350] In this disclosure, pre-definition can be understood as definition, pre-definition, storage, pre-storage, pre-negotiation, pre-configuration, curing, or pre-burning.

[0351] Those skilled in the art will understand that the units and algorithmic steps described herein in various examples relating to embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented using electronic hardware or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art may implement the described functions in different ways depending on their specific application, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of the disclosure.

[0352] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of ease and conciseness of explanation, the specific operating processes of the above-described systems, apparatus, and units can be described by referring to the corresponding processes in the embodiments of the methods described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0353] The foregoing describes only specific embodiments of the Disclosure, and the scope of protection of the Disclosure is not limited thereto. Any modifications or substitutions that are readily conceivable to a person skilled in the art within the technical scope of the Disclosure shall be included in the scope of protection of the Disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of protection of the Disclosure shall be subject to the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A network selection method performed by a terminal device, The steps include obtaining network information for at least one selectable independent private network (SNPN), The step includes determining a target SNMP to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNMPs, The aforementioned selection policy information is, A first list including a network identifier for a first candidate SNMP for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNMP, A second list including a network identifier of a second candidate SNPN for authentication information holder control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second SNPN, Includes at least one of a third list comprising a candidate group identifier (GIN) for authentication information holder control, third priority information, and a third validity condition corresponding to the candidate GIN. A network selection method characterized by the following.

2. The aforementioned selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and the corresponding fourth validity condition. The method according to feature 1.

3. The first validity condition includes first validity time information and / or first validity position information, or The second validity condition includes a second validity time information and / or a second validity position information, or The third validity condition includes third validity time information and / or third validity position information. The method according to 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. The fourth validity condition includes fourth validity time information and / or fourth validity position information. The method according to feature 2.

5. The step of obtaining network information for at least one selectable SNMP is: A step of receiving instruction information transmitted by an access network device, wherein the instruction information is used to indicate the network information of at least one selectable SNPN, The step of obtaining network information for at least one selectable SNPN based on the instruction information. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by...

6. The network information of the selectable SNPNs is as follows: The selectable SPN network identifier, and Includes at least one of the selectable SNPN GINs The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the following:

7. The step of determining the target SNMP to select for registration based on the network information and selected policy information of the selectable SNMPs is as follows: The steps include determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the first list and determining the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, The steps include determining, in order, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, based on the first priority sort, The process includes the step of determining a first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN, wherein the first selectable SNPN is one of the selectable SNPNs located in the first list. The method according to feature 6.

8. A step of determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information, wherein a first condition is met, the first condition being at least one of the following: the selectable SNPN does not exist in the first list; none of the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition; or all of the selectable SNPNs present in the first list that satisfy the first validity condition failed to register during the registration process. Based on the second priority sort, the steps include determining whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, The process further includes the step of determining a second selectable SNPN that satisfies the second validity condition as the target SNPN, The second selectable SNPN is the selectable SNPN that is present in the second list. The method according to feature 7.

9. A step of determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the third list and the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN of the selectable SNPN, the candidate GIN, and the third priority information, wherein a second condition is met, the second condition including at least one of the following: the selectable SNPN does not exist in the second list; none of the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition; and all of the selectable SNPNs present in the second list that satisfy the second validity condition failed to register during the registration process. Based on the third priority sort, the steps include determining whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, The process further includes the step of determining a third selectable SNPN that satisfies the third validity condition as the target SNPN, The third selectable SNPN is the selectable SNPN that is present in the third list. The method according to feature 8.

10. The step of determining the target SNMP to select for registration based on the network information and selected policy information of the selectable SNMPs is as follows: The steps include determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the first list and determining the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, The steps include determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the second list and the corresponding second priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the second candidate SNPN, and the second priority information, The steps include determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the third list and determining the corresponding third priority sort based on the GIN of the selectable SNPN, the candidate GIN, and the third priority information, The steps include determining, in order, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition, based on the first priority sort, The process includes the step of determining a first selectable SNPN that satisfies the first validity condition as the target SNPN, The first selectable SNPN is the selectable SNPN that is present in the first list. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the following:

11. A step of sequentially determining, based on the second priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition, wherein a first condition is satisfied, and the first condition includes at least one of the following: the selectable SNPNs are not present in the first list; none of the selectable SNPNs present in the first list satisfy the first validity condition; or all of the selectable SNPNs present in the first list that satisfy the first validity condition failed to register during the registration process. The process further includes the step of determining a second selectable SNPN that satisfies the second validity condition as the target SNPN, The second selectable SNPN is the selectable SNPN that is present in the second list. The method according to the present invention, characterized by the present invention.

12. A step of sequentially determining, based on the third priority sort, whether the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition, wherein a second condition is satisfied, and the second condition includes at least one of the following: the selectable SNPNs are not present in the second list; none of the selectable SNPNs present in the second list satisfy the second validity condition; or all of the selectable SNPNs present in the second list that satisfy the second validity condition failed to register during the registration process. The process further includes the step of determining a third selectable SNPN that satisfies the third validity condition as the target SNPN, The third selectable SNPN is the selectable SNPN that is present in the third list. The method according to 11, characterized by the features described above.

13. A step of determining that network selection has failed, further comprising: a third condition being met, the third condition including at least one of the following: the selectable SNPN is not present in the third list; none of the selectable SNPNs present in the third list satisfy the third validity condition; or all of the selectable SNPNs present in the third list and satisfying the third validity condition failed to register during the registration process. The method according to 9 or 12, characterized by the features described herein.

14. The selection policy information further includes the previously registered SNPN and a corresponding fourth validity condition, and prior to the step of determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, the method: A step of determining whether there is a selectable SNPN that is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN and the network identifier of the previously registered SNPN, The process further includes the step of determining a fourth selectable SNPN that satisfies the fourth validity condition as the target SNPN, The fourth selectable SNPN is the same as or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized by the following:

15. The process further includes determining, based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, whether the selectable SNPN exists in the first list and whether to cancel determining the corresponding first priority sort. The method according to feature 14.

16. A step of determining whether the selectable SNPN exists in the first list and the corresponding first priority sort based on the network identifier of the selectable SNPN, the network identifier of the first candidate SNPN, and the first priority information, further comprising a fourth condition being satisfied, the fourth condition including at least one of: that there is no selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN; that the selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN does not satisfy the fourth validity condition; or that the selectable SNPN identical or equivalent to the previously registered SNPN failed to register during the registration process. The method according to feature 14.

17. A network selection method performed by an access network device, The process includes the step of sending instruction information to a terminal device, the instruction information being used to instruct network information of at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information being used by the terminal device to obtain the network information of the at least one selectable SNPN. A network selection method characterized by the following.

18. The network information of the selectable SNPNs is as follows: The selectable SPN network identifier, and Includes at least one of the selectable SNPN GINs The method according to feature 17.

19. The system comprises a processing module configured to acquire network information for at least one selectable SNPN, The processing module is also configured to determine the target SNMP to select for registration based on the network information and selection policy information of the selectable SNMPs. The aforementioned selection policy information is, A first list including a network identifier for a first candidate SNMP for user control, first priority information, and a first validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the first candidate SNMP, A second list including a network identifier of a second candidate SNPN for authentication information holder control, second priority information, and a second validity condition corresponding to the network identifier of the second SNPN, Includes at least one of a third list comprising a candidate group identifier (GIN) for authentication information holder control, third priority information, and a third validity condition corresponding to the candidate GIN. A communication device characterized by the following features.

20. The system includes a transceiver module configured to transmit instruction information to a terminal device, the instruction information being used to instruct network information for at least one selectable SNPN, and the instruction information being used for the terminal device to obtain the network information for the at least one selectable SNPN. A communication device characterized by the following features.

21. A communication device comprising a processor and memory, wherein a computer program is stored in the memory, and the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method according to claim 17 or 18. A communication device characterized by the following features.

22. A communication device comprising a processor and an interface circuit, The interface circuit is configured to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor. The processor is configured to execute the code instructions to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or to execute the code instructions to perform the method according to claim 17 or 18. A communication device characterized by the following features.

23. An instruction is stored, and when the instruction is executed, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16 is realized, or when the instruction is executed, the method according to claim 17 or 18 is realized. A computer-readable storage medium characterized by the following features.

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