Core Network Node Network Slice Rule Enforcement
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face inefficiencies in managing network slices for roaming UEs, leading to potential congestion and bottlenecks due to the lack of control over slice usage by Visited Public Land Mobile Networks (VPLMNs).
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a core network node receives capability data from a UE, obtains and enforces rules for network slice usage, ensuring compliance by the UE, thereby optimizing slice utilization and minimizing congestion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If VPLMN allows UE to use network slices without control, then UE can access desired services, but network congestion and bottlenecks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The VPLMN pre-configures usage rules for network slices before UE access, defining conditions under which specific slices can be used. This preliminary configuration enables the network to proactively control slice usage and prevent congestion before it occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the VPLMN monitors UE usage of network slices and enforces pre-configured rules to control access. This feedback loop allows the network to maintain reliability while preserving UE adaptability to use appropriate slices
2Ease of operation
If HPLMN provides URSP rules for all PLMNs, then UE can use consistent policies, but VPLMN cannot control slice usage by roamers
Solution Approach 1:
The policy control is segmented into two layers: HPLMN provides baseline URSP rules for consistent UE operation across PLMNs, while VPLMN adds local usage rules specific to its network slices. This segmentation allows both policy consistency and local control to coexist
Solution Approach 2:
The VPLMN applies local quality control by configuring usage rules specific to its own network slices that differ from HPLMN's general policies. This enables the VPLMN to optimize slice usage for its specific network conditions while maintaining overall policy consistency
3Reliability
If VPLMN restricts UE access to network slices, then congestion is reduced, but UE service availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The usage rules configured by VPLMN are dynamic rather than static, allowing the network to adapt slice access control based on current network conditions. This dynamic approach maintains reliability by controlling congestion while preserving service availability when network conditions permit
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a core network node is provided. The method is for handling one or more rules for a User Equipment, UE, in a network. The core network node is operating in the network. The network is comprised in a wireless communications network. The core network node receives (201) capability data from the UE. The capability data relates to the UE's capabilities to support rules for use of one or more network slices. The core network node obtains (203) one or more rules relating to a use of one or more network slices allowed in the network. The core network node decides (204) that the UE is capable to support rules for use of one or more network slices in the network according to the one or more rules, based on the received capability data and the obtained one or more rules. The core network node sends (205) to the UE, the one or more rules that the UE is capable to support, and where the one or more rules are to be applied by the UE for use of one or more network slices in the network. The core network node enforces (206) the one or more rules relating to the of use of one or more network slices applied by the UE in the network.