5G UPF Local Routing for Personal IoT Communications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G systems for personal Internet of Things (PIN) networks face challenges in securely routing communications between elements that are not in direct proximity, often requiring connections to traverse external data networks, which compromises security and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Implementing local routing within the 5G system (5GS) by configuring packet filters and using UPF rules to establish internal communication paths between Personal Internet of Things (PIN) elements, ensuring that communication stays within the secure 5GS domain without relying on external data networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If communications traverse external data networks, then connectivity between non-proximate PIN elements is achieved, but security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication path by introducing local routing within the 5GS that separates PIN traffic from external network traffic. The UPF is configured with packet filters that identify and route PIN traffic through internal 5GS paths, while non-PIN traffic continues through external networks. This segmentation allows security-sensitive PIN communications to be isolated from less secure external networks while maintaining overall network connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The User Plane Function (UPF) acts as an intermediary that mediates between PIN elements and the external data network. The UPF receives packet filters from the SEPP containing PIN element identifiers and traffic characteristics, then uses these filters to intercept and redirect PIN traffic through local 5GS routing paths. This intermediary function enables secure local routing while maintaining the ability to access external networks when necessary.
2Reliability
If local routing is implemented within 5GS, then security is enhanced, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The SEPP is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a security enforcement point for policy control and as a routing configuration source for the UPF. The SEPP generates both packet filters and routing rules, consolidating multiple functions into a single network element. This universal approach reduces overall network complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated routing controllers while maintaining security enhancement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local routing by changing the routing parameters and packet filter configurations in the UPF based on PIN element identifiers and traffic characteristics. Rather than adding complex hardware infrastructure, the solution modifies software-based routing parameters and filter rules dynamically. This parameter-based approach enables flexible security-enhanced routing without significant increases in physical network complexity.
3Productivity
If external networks are used for PIN communications, then connectivity is maintained, but efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The SEPP performs preliminary action by pre-configuring packet filters and routing rules in the UPF before PIN traffic needs to be routed. The filters are populated with PIN element identifiers, application identifiers, and traffic characteristics in advance, enabling the UPF to efficiently identify and redirect PIN traffic without real-time decision-making delays. This preliminary configuration optimizes routing efficiency while maintaining connectivity flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods for internal routing of personal Internet of things network communications.