The Future of Cloud-native Architecture in Mobile Core Networks

Cloud-native architecture has revolutionized the way mobile core networks are designed and operated.

With the advent of cloud computing and virtualization technologies, traditional hardware-based mobile core networks have given way to a more flexible and scalable approach.

In this article, we will explore the role of Cloud-native architecture in mobile core networks and how it enables operators to meet the growing demands of mobile services.

Mobile core networks are the backbone of mobile communication systems, responsible for handling various functions such as authentication, billing, and routing.

Traditionally, these networks were built using dedicated hardware appliances, which often resulted in high costs, limited scalability, and inflexibility. However, with the emergence of cloud-native architecture, operators can now leverage the power of cloud computing and virtualization to transform their mobile core networks.

Cloud-native Architecture

Cloud-native architecture is an approach to building and running applications that takes full advantage of cloud computing principles. It is characterized by the use of containerization, microservices, and orchestration tools to create highly scalable and flexible systems. In the context of mobile core networks, cloud-native architecture enables operators to virtualize network functions and deploy them as software-based services.

By decoupling network functions from dedicated hardware appliances, operators can achieve greater flexibility in scaling their networks based on demand. They can dynamically allocate resources and scale up or down as needed, without the need for physical infrastructure changes. This allows for more efficient resource utilization and cost savings.

Benefits of Cloud-native Architecture

Cloud-native architecture offers several benefits for mobile core networks:

• Scalability: Cloud-native architecture allows operators to scale their networks horizontally by adding or removing instances of network functions as needed. This enables them to handle increasing traffic volumes and accommodate new services without significant infrastructure changes.
• Flexibility: With cloud-native architecture, operators can easily introduce new network functions or update existing ones without disrupting the entire network. They can deploy and manage different versions of network functions independently, enabling faster innovation and service delivery.
• Resilience: By leveraging containerization and orchestration tools, cloud-native architecture provides built-in fault tolerance and resilience. If a network function fails, it can be automatically restarted or replaced without affecting the overall network performance.
• Cost Efficiency: Cloud-native architecture reduces hardware dependency, resulting in lower capital and operational expenses. Operators can leverage commodity hardware and virtualized infrastructure, leading to cost savings and improved return on investment.

Deployment Considerations

While cloud-native architecture offers significant advantages, its deployment in mobile core networks requires careful consideration:

• Network Function Virtualization (NFV): Operators need to virtualize their network functions and ensure they can run efficiently in a cloud-native environment. This may involve re-architecting existing network functions or developing new ones specifically designed for cloud-native deployment.
• Orchestration and Automation: Effective orchestration and automation are crucial for managing the lifecycle of network functions in a cloud-native environment. Operators need to implement robust orchestration frameworks to automate the deployment, scaling, and monitoring of network functions.
• Security and Compliance: Cloud-native architecture introduces new security challenges, such as securing containerized network functions and managing access control. Operators must implement robust security measures and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Interoperability: Cloud-native architecture should be interoperable with existing network infrastructure and standards. Operators need to ensure seamless integration with legacy systems and support interoperability across different vendors and technologies.

Challenges and Considerations

While cloud-native architecture brings numerous benefits, it also presents certain challenges and considerations:

• Legacy Systems: Operators may have existing legacy systems that are not easily compatible with cloud-native architecture. Migration and integration of legacy systems can be complex and require careful planning.
• Skills and Expertise: Cloud-native architecture requires specialized skills and expertise in areas such as containerization, orchestration, and automation. Operators need to invest in training their workforce or partner with external experts to ensure successful implementation.
• Vendor Lock-in: Adopting cloud-native architecture may involve relying on specific vendors or proprietary technologies. Operators should carefully evaluate vendor lock-in risks and consider open standards and interoperability to avoid dependency on a single vendor.
• Performance and Latency: Cloud-native architecture introduces additional layers of abstraction, which can impact performance and introduce latency. Operators need to carefully design and optimize their network functions to ensure optimal performance and low latency.

The Future of Cloud-native Architecture in Mobile Core Networks

Cloud-native architecture is poised to play a crucial role in the future of mobile core networks. As the demand for mobile services continues to grow, operators need scalable and flexible solutions to meet the evolving needs of their customers. Cloud-native architecture provides the foundation for building agile and efficient mobile core networks that can adapt to changing requirements.

With advancements in technologies such as 5G and edge computing, the role of cloud-native architecture will become even more critical. Operators will be able to leverage the distributed nature of edge computing and the scalability of cloud-native architecture to deliver low-latency and high-bandwidth services.

In conclusion, cloud-native architecture offers significant advantages for mobile core networks, enabling operators to achieve scalability, flexibility, resilience, and cost efficiency. However, its deployment requires careful consideration of factors such as network function virtualization, orchestration, security, and interoperability. By addressing these challenges and embracing cloud-native principles, operators can build future-proof mobile core networks that can meet the demands of the digital era.

How Dell and Intel are Unleashing the Potential of Cloud Native in the Mobile Core

Udayan Mukherjee, senior fellow within the network and edge group at Intel, and Manish Singh, CTO of Dell Technologies’ telecom systems business, examine the fundamental differences between legacy cores and using a cloud-native architecture in the mobile core, as well as the benefits, difficulties and methods of future-proofing core networks.