The 3GPP standard

3GPP is the international body for the development of 5G standardization. In 3GPP, both the core network (5G Core) and the radio access (5G RAN) were defined. The 5G Core is home to all the functional components that allow the network operator/manager to enable advanced features and define the characteristics of the service provided in terms of performance and security. 5G RAN defines the radio access of terminals to the 5G Core.
5G offers high flexibility in the configuration of radio access and, while also supporting advanced configurations, also extends to “non-3GPP” systems such as WiFi access. This has happened since version 15 of the 3GPP standard and requires adaptations to the 5G Core, as well as the selection of access technology (e.g. WiFi AP) with characteristics that comply with the required performance requirements
A 5G terminal compatible with the new access system can therefore access the services of the 5G network both through the classic 5G radio access and also via alternative accesses such as WiFi.
The Figure 1 illustrates an outline of the solution provided by the 3GPP standard.

RomARS has developed the N3IWF gateway that allows the interconnection between the WiFi Access Point and the 5G core network, more precisely with the UPF through the N3 interface and the N2 interface to the AMF module.
For further information follow the link to our technical articles:

 

How does that work

The 5G device turns on and registers in the 5G network normally. Then when it has to make a call, or receive it, or access data services, it requests a specific “data channel” and then starts using it.
With the new “non-3GPP access” function, the 5G device can also perform the same operations via an enabled WiFi access.
All operations are done automatically and without user intervention. Entering and exiting WiFi coverage without ever losing connection is now possible.

The standard also provides for an additional option

3GPP also provided for the simultaneous use of the two systems 5G and WiFi, allowing a doubling of capacity, high performance and reliability. This result is possible thanks to a specific module called ATSSS (Access Traffic Switching, Steering, Splitting).
In Figure 2 it is illustrated in more detail how the ATSSS module allows you to interact simultaneously with the two 5G and WiFi radio systems

The ATSSS module is an advanced feature of the User Plane function located in the UPF. There is also an ATSSS client in the user terminal that works in conjunction with the ATSSS server in the UPF. RomARS has developed both the Client and the Server, in particular adapting both the UE and the UPF to respond to the functions of Switching, Steering, Splitting.
For further information follow the link to our technical articles:

Use cases

In the industrial field, numerous application scenarios can be identified (logistics, safety, environmental monitoring, etc.). For some of these, one can imagine drones flying in warehouses to take inventory, high-resolution cameras for analysis of production quality or for security purposes, augmented reality headsets for tourism or medical applications. The Figure 3 presents some of these use cases.
All these devices and their applications need a fast and reliable connection, which can be guaranteed by the availability of two channels!

A private network also allows for greater security, greater control, and better quality of transmissions.

 

The user terminal

The user terminal plays a fundamental role in the architecture of “non-3GPP Access”.

RomARS has developed a solution for user terminals (UE) that allows the use of non-3GPP access, including the ATSSS function, so it is already possible to use the end-to-end solution for industrial and custom applications.

Currently , the UE client is available for Linux and Android-based devices.
The EU device has a dual radio interface, 5G and WiFi. In addition, the solution can use both SIM and eSIM and allows both access to the public 5G network and also to a Slice dedicated by the operator to the end customer.

 

In conclusion

A private network offers:

• Increased security of traffic and access to user devices
• Greater control of communication performance and quality
• Increased reliability

A private “5G via WiFi” network allows:

• All the security and performance control of 5G
• No radio licence costs when completing coverage via WiFi Access Points
• Lower cost of user equipment
• Lower cost of network equipment and base stations (access points)

 

Added value of RomARS

• Solution developed entirely by RomARS (configuration, customization, integration and development)
• Network design and sizing
• Turnkey construction and direct network management

 

Main features of RomARS Private Networks

• Includes 5G Cores, or can interoperate with the most popular 5G Cores on the market
• WiFi Access Module

    • 3GPP rel 15 “Untrusted” via N3IWF
    • 3GPP rel 16 “Trusted” with TNAP and TNGF

• ATSSS module available for simultaneous traffic control over 5G and WiFi
• Easy GUI for configuration and monitoring