5GVN Communication Processing for Inter-LAN Routing via SMF and UPF
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G virtual network (5GVN) technologies are unable to facilitate communication between different local area networks (LANs) within the same data network due to the absence of fixed network links between them.
Innovation Solution
Implement a communication processing method and system that utilizes a session management function (SMF) network element to provide 5GVN services by sending routing information to user plane function (UPF) network elements, enabling them to forward data based on address segment information and tunnel interface details, thereby establishing communication between multiple LANs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a UPF network element is connected to only one LAN in the data network, then the network element can be simplified and easier to manage, but communication between different LANs cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network architecture into multiple UPF network elements, where each UPF is responsible for a specific LAN. This segmentation allows each UPF to remain simple while the collective system achieves multi-LAN communication capability through coordinated interaction between multiple UPF instances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a session management function network element as an intermediary that coordinates communication between different UPF network elements. This mediator receives application requests, determines the appropriate UPF for the target LAN, and forwards data through the correct routing path, enabling communication between LANs without complicating individual UPF structures.
2Device complexity
If routing information is not installed in UPF network elements, then the network elements can operate with simpler logic, but they cannot forward data to correct destinations in different LANs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-installing routing information in UPF network elements during session establishment. The session management function network element determines the target UPF based on LAN identification and pre-configures the routing rules, so that when data needs to be forwarded, the UPF can immediately use the pre-established routing information without complex real-time decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of UPF network elements by dynamically installing and updating routing information based on session requirements. Instead of maintaining fixed complex routing logic, the UPF elements adapt their forwarding behavior by receiving and applying routing rules that match specific destination IP address segments, simplifying their core logic while enhancing forwarding capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed network links are established between different LANs, then direct communication between LANs can be achieved, but the network structure becomes more complex and requires physical infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the session management function network element as an intermediary that virtualizes the connection between different LANs. Instead of requiring physical fixed network links between every pair of LANs, the mediator intelligently routes data through the appropriate UPF network elements, creating logical connectivity without physical direct links, thus reducing network infrastructure complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from physical network dimension to logical network dimension by implementing communication paths through software-based routing and tunneling mechanisms. Data can traverse between LANs through the 5GVN virtual network infrastructure without requiring direct physical links, adding a logical routing dimension that bypasses physical infrastructure constraints.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of this application disclose a communication processing method. The method in the embodiments of this application includes: An SMF network element receives a first application request, where the first application request is used to request to provide a service of a 5GVN for a first LAN in a data network, and the first application request carries address segment information of the first LAN, information that is about a target group and that corresponds to the first LAN, and interface information of a first tunnel interface of a first LSW in the first LAN. The SMF network element determines a first UPF network element that provides the service of the 5GVN for the first LAN. The SMF network element sends first routing information to the first UPF network element, where the first routing information is used to indicate the first UPF network element to forward received first data to the first tunnel interface, and a destination address of the first data is any address included in the address segment information of the first LAN.