Virtualization-based techniques for the design, management and implementation of future 5G systems with network slicing

Abstract

Emerging 5G communications aim to simplify the current inefficient and heterogeneous collection of wireless solutions for future systems. However, contrary to traditional mobile networks, 5G networks must consider many different application scenarios (Internet-of-Things, wearable devices, etc.). In this context it is defined the concept of network slicing, a technique where network resources are packaged and assigned in an isolated manner to set of users according to their specific requirements. The use of Virtual Network Functions and other similar technologies is a first step in this challenge, but deeper changes are required. Therefore, in this paper we present a virtualization-based technique for the design, management and implementation of future 5G systems with network slicing. The proposed technique employs extensively current virtualization technologies such as Docker or Kubernetes in order to create, coordinate and manage slices, services and functional components in future 5G networks. A simulation scenario describing these future mobile networks is also provided, in order to obtain first evidences of their predicted performance.