Network Function Repository Function Cross-PLMN Access Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In public land mobile networks (PLMNs), network function (NF) instances face poor access reliability when trying to access counterparts in different PLMNs due to differences in network slice types, leading to incomplete access to necessary network functions and data.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first NF instance sends a discovery request to a first Network Function Repository Function (NFRF) with the PLMN identifier and NF type of the to-be-accessed NF instance, obtaining a network slice identifier, and then requests instance information from a second NFRF in the target PLMN, enabling accurate access to the NF instance based on the obtained information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an NF instance accesses an NF instance in another PLMN based only on NF type, then the access process is simple, but the access reliability is poor due to network slice type mismatches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces NFRF (Network Function Repository Function) as an intermediary between NF instances in different PLMNs. The NFRF stores and manages network slice identifier information for NF instances, allowing the first NF instance to query the appropriate network slice identifier through the NFRF before accessing the second NF instance. This intermediary resolves the contradiction by providing reliable access information without requiring the first NF instance to directly complexly determine slice compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the first NF instance query the NFRF to obtain the network slice identifier of the to-be-accessed NF instance before actually performing the access. This advance information gathering allows the system to verify slice compatibility beforehand, ensuring reliable access while keeping the actual access process simple. The discovery request and response mechanism enables this preliminary information exchange.
2Loss of information
If network slice identifier information is not shared between PLMNs, then the system maintains independence and security, but NF instances cannot accurately identify required network functions across PLMNs
Solution Approach 1:
The NFRF acts as a secure intermediary that enables information sharing without direct exposure between PLMNs. The first PLMN's NF instance communicates with its local NFRF, which then queries the second PLMN's NFRF to obtain network slice identifier information. This indirect communication through trusted intermediaries allows necessary information exchange for cross-PLMN access while maintaining the independence and security boundaries of each PLMN.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the information sharing process into distinct components: each PLMN maintains its own NFRF instance with local NF information, and cross-PLMN queries are handled through structured discovery requests. The network slice identifier information is segmented and stored in the NFRF database, allowing selective retrieval without exposing entire PLMN configurations. This segmentation enables controlled information sharing that supports adaptability while preserving system independence.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a network access control method, apparatus, and device. The method includes: receiving a discovery request sent by a first network function NF instance, where the discovery request includes an identifier of a second PLMN and an NF type of a to-be-accessed NF instance; obtaining a to-be-accessed network slice identifier, and requesting a second NFRF corresponding to the identifier of the second PLMN for instance information of a second NF instance corresponding to the NF type of the to-be-accessed NF instance and the to-be-accessed network slice identifier; and sending the instance information to the first NF instance, to improve access reliability of NF instances between different PLMNs.