5GS Ethernet Bridge Dynamic VLAN Configuration Without CNC

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3GPP specifications for Fifth Generation System (5GS) bridges do not support dynamic VLAN configuration, leading to inflexible and manually intensive VLAN management, especially in deployments without a centralized network controller, and lack clarity on how to perform VLAN configurations in such scenarios.

Innovation Solution

Implement dynamic VLAN configuration using an Application Function (AF) and IEEE 802.1Q defined Multiple VLAN Registration Protocol (MVRP) to dynamically manage VLANs, particularly through the User Plane Function (UPF) of the 5GS, which operates as a logical bridge, learning VLAN IDs and performing bridging operations based on predefined or dynamically assigned VLAN IDs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static VLAN configuration is used in 5GS bridges, then configuration stability is maintained, but flexibility and adaptability deteriorate due to manual re-configuration requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveVLAN configuration flexibilityVSAvoidManual configuration effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic VLAN configuration in 5GS bridges by allowing VLAN assignments to be modified automatically through network signaling (N1N2 signaling between SMF and UPF) rather than requiring static pre-configuration. The UPF can dynamically learn VLAN IDs and update bridge port VLAN memberships based on network conditions and service requirements, enabling flexible adaptation without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service VLAN configuration where the 5GS bridge (UPF) automatically performs VLAN learning and configuration based on received signaling. The bridge autonomously updates its VLAN database and port assignments without requiring external manual configuration, reducing operational effort while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Extent of automation

If centralized network controller (CNC) is deployed for VLAN configuration, then centralized control capability is achieved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAutomated VLAN configurationVSAvoidNetwork controller infrastructure

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the VLAN configuration control function from a separate centralized network controller and integrates it directly into the existing 5GS core network functions (SMF and UPF). The SMF sends VLAN configuration instructions to the UPF through existing N1N2 signaling interfaces, eliminating the need for additional CNC infrastructure while maintaining automated configuration capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The existing SMF and UPF nodes in the 5GS are enhanced to perform multiple functions including VLAN configuration and management. The SMF serves both session management and VLAN configuration roles, while the UPF handles both packet forwarding and bridge VLAN learning, reducing overall system complexity through multi-functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If no centralized network controller is deployed, then system complexity is reduced, but VLAN configuration capability deteriorates due to lack of defined mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveNetwork controller infrastructureVSAvoidVLAN configuration capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The 5GS bridge (UPF) performs self-service VLAN configuration by automatically learning VLAN IDs from incoming traffic and updating its bridge database without external controllers. The system uses existing N1N2 signaling to convey VLAN assignment information from SMF to UPF, enabling autonomous VLAN management in distributed deployments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the UPF monitors traffic patterns and VLAN tag information, then automatically updates bridge port VLAN assignments based on learned information. This closed-loop approach enables dynamic VLAN configuration without centralized control, maintaining adaptability while reducing infrastructure complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12588084B2Methods and apparatus supporting dynamic ethernet VLAN configuration in a fifth generation system

Publication Date: 2026.03.24 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

AI summary

Methods and apparatuses for a 5G System (5GS) (20) support Dynamic VLAN configuration for a logical Ethernet bridge (24) provided by the 5GS. In at least one embodiment, a User Plane Function (UPF) (22) runs, on a conditional basis, for example, Multiple VLAN Registration Protocol (MVRP) for a User Equipment (UE) (12) establishing or modifying an Ethernet Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session. Running MVRP allows the UPF to learn the VLAN's associated with the UE and correspondingly dynamically configure bridging services. In one or more embodiments. UEs that act as trunk ports are assigned a predefined VLAN ID, e.g., via an Application Function (AF) (32), and, for a UE establishing or modifying a session, a Session Management Function (SMF) (26) indicates the predefined VLAN ID to the UPF, triggering the UPF to run MVRP for the UE.