Interception-Aware Access Node Selection in 5G Non-3GPP Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G networks, there is a need for flexible access node selection mechanisms to efficiently manage non-3GPP access, considering factors like lawful interception requirements, mobility status, and service differentiation, as existing solutions lack interception-aware and deployment scenario flexibility.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an apparatus with a processor and memory configured to obtain information for access node selection, query servers for lawful interception requirements, and select between non-3GPP interworking functions and evolved packet data gateways based on obtained information and response, using policy control functions and universal subscriber identity modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If access node selection is performed without considering lawful interception requirements, then device complexity and operation simplicity are improved, but reliability and compliance with legal requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by querying the server about lawful interception requirements before making the access node selection. The UE obtains information from the policy control function and queries the server to determine if the country requires lawful interception, then selects the access node based on this advance knowledge, ensuring compliance without complicating the selection process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the policy control function and server query system - that mediates between the simple selection process and compliance requirements. This intermediary handles the complexity of lawful interception checks transparently, allowing the UE to maintain operational simplicity while ensuring reliability through automated compliance verification
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple access node options are maintained for different scenarios, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic adaptability by maintaining multiple access node options (N3IWF and ePDG) that can be selected based on deployment scenarios and mobility status. The UE dynamically determines which access node to use based on current conditions such as whether the country requires lawful interception and the UE's mobility state, allowing flexibility without requiring complex manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes to manage complexity - the UE changes selection parameters based on obtained information from the policy control function and server responses. By dynamically adjusting selection criteria based on lawful interception requirements, mobility status, and deployment scenario, the system achieves versatility while keeping the selection mechanism manageable through standardized parameter evaluation
3Reliability
If access node selection considers lawful interception requirements and mobility status, then reliability and service differentiation are improved, but information processing requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling the UE to autonomously obtain and process information from the policy control function and server. The UE independently determines lawful interception requirements, evaluates its own mobility status, and makes access node selections based on this self-gathered information, reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms while improving reliability and service differentiation
Data Source
AI summary
In some example embodiments, there may be provided an apparatus including at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: obtain information to enable selection of an access node for a non-GPP access; query a server to determine whether the country at which the access node is located requires lawful interception of communications; and select, based at least on the obtained information and/or a response to the query, the access node for the non-3GPP access. Related systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are also described.