Access Gateway Relocation for Slice-Compatible UE Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G networks face challenges in efficiently relocating access gateways during UE registration, particularly when the initially selected interworking function cannot support the network slices allowed for the user equipment, leading to incomplete or unsuccessful registration processes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of procedures that enable the relocation of access gateways from an initially selected interworking function to a second interworking function capable of supporting the required network slices, ensuring seamless registration by maintaining secure connectivity through security key establishment and network interface management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the initially selected interworking function is used for UE registration, then the registration process can start immediately, but the registration may fail if the interworking function cannot support the required network slices
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary checks to determine whether the initially selected interworking function supports the required network slices before completing the registration process. If support is not available, the system proactively initiates relocation to a suitable interworking function, preventing registration failure and ensuring both high productivity and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If relocation to a second interworking function is implemented, then network slice support is ensured, but additional signaling messages and processing steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The AMF acts as an intermediary that manages the relocation process between interworking functions. It receives relocation requests, selects appropriate target interworking functions based on network slice requirements, and coordinates the handover, thereby ensuring adaptability while abstracting away the complexity from the UE and access gateway.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the AMF monitors whether the initially selected interworking function supports the required network slices. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically decides whether to initiate relocation procedures, ensuring network slice compatibility while avoiding unnecessary relocation overhead.
3Reliability
If security key establishment is performed during relocation, then secure connectivity is maintained, but additional authentication steps increase signaling overhead
Solution Approach 1:
Security keys are established preliminarily during the initial registration phase or pre-configured in the network. When relocation is needed, the pre-established security keys can be transferred or reused, maintaining connectivity security while minimizing additional authentication time and signaling overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for relocating an access gateway during UE registration. An apparatus includes a memory and a processor coupled with the memory and configured to cause the apparatus to receive, from an initial TNGF, a first request including a UE identity; transmit, to an AMF, a relocation notify message including the UE identity; receive, in response to the relocation notify message, a security key from the AMF; and establish secure connectivity with the UE based on the security key.