The path to

a new world
Evolution from EPC
to 5G core made easy

ericsson.com/
June 2018 digital-services
2 Ericsson | The path to a new world

Let’s get to the core

The modern economy is gravitating toward a platform economy, where collaboration

and agility across verticals are key. The network evolution from EPC to 5G core plays
a central role in creating a powerful network platform, capable of being exposed and
automated, for operators to extract more value and become contributors in existing
and emerging ecosystems.

The 5G core architecture and radio will architecture. This architecture represents declining average revenue per user (ARPU)
open up a universe of possibilities for a shift from telecom-type interfaces to and expansions of capacity and capability
differentiation and business. New use web-based APIs for the control functions, implemented with well-established routines.
cases with different requirements will facilitating the creation of new services While this model has served the current
ultimately define the strategy that each where network functions can register journey well, we see a few changes in focus
operator chooses to follow; however, there themselves and subscribe to other for the core evolution going forward.
are some common steps that everyone services without changing interfaces. – Increased agility where your core network
will need to take to become successful The evolution journey can be completed will be continuously evolving, with
in the future business landscape. in many ways, and the order in which software upgrades taking place in an
To this end, Ericsson has explored you approach the building blocks can be order of magnitude more frequently.
the challenges faced in defining the best optimized for your requirements. However, – Reduced opex for initial deployment
possible core evolution path while meeting this high level of flexibility creates both and life cycle management of core
aggressive time to market, agility and opportunities and challenges, especially as network functions, enabled by a
opex reduction objectives. This strategy the business drivers call for a strong focus higher degree of automation.
paper will outline our findings and on increased agility and opex reductions – Increased flexibility in serving
thoughts on how your evolution path can through automation, which affect both industry verticals, where the demand
be simplified, even if your starting point is network solutions and the transformation can be both higher and lower when
not from a complete Ericsson 4G core. of network processes. So which is the compared to the mobile broadband
correct way to approach this challenge? base depending on use case. This calls
The building blocks to 5G We believe in adopting a holistic for innovation of network solutions
Your journey from EPC to 5G core relies approach to the core network evolution as well as business models.
on multiple building blocks, including: to reduce time, risk and cost in your – Improved time to market by eliminating
virtualization of core network functions 5G program. Follow us through the unnecessary system integration steps,
for Packet Core, IMS and subscription evolution journey as we share some of our positively affecting cost and time
management; separation of control and ideas and show you how, with Ericsson’s budgets. A central theme for the future
user plane functions; introduction of hands-on expertise and knowledge, core network is to enable an instant
network slicing, enabling multiple logical we can make a significant difference to economy for a larger ecosystem.
networks to be supported over one network your journey even when starting with These business drivers have
platform; distribution of cloud infrastructure only a portion of your core network. shaped our thinking on how to best
closer to users; and the consolidation architect the evolution journey.
of user plane functions for mobile, fixed The best evolution journey is not
wireless and fixed access. These building visible in the rear-view mirror
blocks are interlinked and are important Your target destination will shape the
steps on the way to achieving your target evolution journey. The 4G core network
5G core network and a service-based has supported a rapid growth in traffic with

One core, endless possibilities

Across operators and markets, the starting points will vary greatly. We offer a holistic view of the evolution journey with the
flexibility of choosing in which order to introduce building blocks and the option to combine several blocks in a larger step.
Ericsson can offer all building blocks necessary for the evolution to 5GC and holds the capability of evolving 4G and 5G into
a dual mode core network operation approach.
 3 Ericsson | The path to a new world

The stairway to 5G

The evolution of the core network to 5G involves

a few vital realization steps. The target is clear,
the launch date for 5G being an important
milestone, and the challenge for operators is now
to identify the best approach to get from A to B.

There will be several paths to reach EPC to 5G dual mode core evolution This option allows NR to be added as a
a 5G core network and each path Before the introduction of 5G NR, there capacity boost to an LTE eNodeB and
will include different objectives in are a couple of important steps to represents a fast opportunity to introduce
terms of new technology introduction, take in preparing the core network. 5G NR. Two paths of 5G EPC introduction
use cases and time frames. The recommended first step includes exist: you can either upgrade your existing
3GPP has defined two different introducing control and user plane EPC to 5G EPC, or you can introduce an
core network alternatives to support separation (CUPS) in EPC to achieve overlay Ericsson 5G EPC as shown below.
the 5G New Radio (NR) in release 15. maximum topology flexibility and The latter builds the foundation for the
The first alternative is based on an completely independent capacity scaling. next step in the evolution, making it possible
enhanced EPC supporting option 3, This is also a key preparation for the to upgrade to the Ericsson 5G dual mode core
NR Non-Stand Alone (NSA), with 5G core network architecture which builds solution by introducing 5GC functionality,
specifications completed at the end on similar principles. A second important managed as one combined solution for
of 2017. The second alternative is a preparation step is the introduction of lowest Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
new 5G core architecture supporting virtualization of the EPC core network.
option 2, NR Stand Alone (SA), as well When 5G NR NSA (option 3) is introduced,
as other options (4, 5 and 7) where certain enhancements are needed to EPC
specifications are scheduled to be according to 3GPP release 15 specifications,
finalized by mid-2018. which result in what we call a 5G EPC.

Possible migration steps

for NR NSA option 3 5G EPC

Enhance EPC with new

Path 1: Upgrade
split gateway, preparing for
existing EPC
5G architecture

EPC EPC

Opt 1 Opt 1

Path 2: Introduce Add 5GC by upgrading

5G EPC 5GC
overlay 5G EPC to 5G dual mode core

EPC 5G EPC EPC 5G EPC 5GC

Opt 1 Opt 3
4 Ericsson | The path to a new world

5G architecture overview – the architecture tracks in 3GPP release 15

5G EPC 5GC
3GPP Q4-17 3GPP target Q2-18

S1 based N2/N3 (new interface)

Option 1 Option 3
Option 5 Option 2

Option 7

Option 4

LTE LTE NR LTE NR NR

LTE/EPC LTE/EPC LTE/5GC

LTE/EPC
NR/EPC NR/EPC NR/5GC

The introduction of 5GC functionality, stand-alone to 5GC. Option 7 is dual

which is an inherently new core connectivity between NR and eLTE,
network built with a service-based with eLTE being the control plane
architecture in the control plane, anchor towards 5GC.
offers a broad range of capabilities to A majority of the operator first-movers
address new business opportunities. are focusing on the NR NSA (option 3)
The initial radio access connected to alternative due to it being available first.
5GC will be the NR SA (option 2) even if When introducing 5GC, the option under
the same 5GC will support the additional, consideration is option 2 because of its
specified connectivity options (4, 5 and 7). early availability, while other options
Option 4 is a dual connectivity between are also under consideration, depending
NR and eLTE, with NR being the control on the spectrum availability for NR.
plane anchor, while option 5 is an eLTE
5 Ericsson | The path to a new world

A smooth evolution journey with us

We can support your core network evolution journey,

whether you have a complete Ericsson core today or if
you use certain building blocks from us. For the latter,
we see three ways we can simplify your journey.

Firstly, our global core network presence Cut to the core: the NSA evolution – Core network slicing is based on
has given us a large exposure to different To break the evolution journey DECOR/eDECOR, representing
evolution challenges, so you can expect down into sizeable steps, here is our the first step of the journey.
us to be familiar with your situation. suggested five-step approach. – Separated EPC platforms for mass
To approach the evolution scenario market mobile broadband and IoT niches.
from scratch without the leverage Step 1. Virtualize and start – Limited vertical integration synergies
of global insights will increase costs exploring network slicing with peer operators, where different
and slow down your progress. The target architecture for 5G core networks combinations of NFV infrastructure
Secondly, with a broad portfolio of is cloud native and fully virtualized. (hardware and software platforms)
core network building blocks, we can The degree of EPC virtualization and and network functions define the
suggest evolution steps to combine several near-term implementation plans shape required, recurring integration efforts.
blocks. The first wave of the core network your options for the core evolution to 5G.
virtualization is built around the same Your current EPC network is characterized The nature of your virtualization maturity
entities as physical network functions. by one or several of the following: is an important factor in articulating your
For the journey ahead we envision – Partially virtualized, where you operate starting point. At this early stage of network
both larger and smaller building blocks, a mix of virtualized and physical slicing, the resources are shared on a high
where network functions can be core network functions in a hybrid level, where a split across the four main
grouped together to simplify life cycle model for each network function. categories can be in place: enhanced mobile
management of the network. – The degree of virtualization varies broadband, fixed wireless access, massive
Thirdly, core evolution journeys will vary and has reached different penetration and critical machine type communication.
between operators, driven by differences levels for different network functions. We offer a mature NFVi platform,
in business objectives and starting points. – A centralized cloud infrastructure core VNFs proven in large-scale
We offer flexibility in the order the building with co-located physical and virtualized deployments and robust
blocks are introduced. This flexibility virtualized network functions. processes for VNF introduction and life
is enabled by a complete suite of core – The transformation of internal processes is cycle management – a foundation that
products, designed to work well together, partly complete, where continuous delivery was created and tested for 4G before
with a holistic approach to life cycle and integration is semi-automated. being applied to core networks for 5G.
management across network functions. With service-based slice selection
and slicing database capabilities already
available in 4G and 5G EPC, our solution
facilitates the introduction of service and
subscription differentiation in network
slices, and our policy-based slice selection
A five-step approach allows operators to efficiently address the
enterprise market with tailored solutions.
1. Virtualize and start exploring network slicing For example, our proven Federated
Network Slicing solution tested with
2. Early introduction of 5G EPC and separation of control and user planes South Korean operator SK Telecom allows
seamless experiences to enterprise
3. Optimize with distributed cloud customers even when roaming abroad.

4. Expand network slicing

5. Evolve to a dual mode core (5G EPC/5GC)

6 Ericsson | The path to a new world

The CUPS deployment and scaling evolution

West site East site

EPG EPG EPG EPG Without CUPS

EPG CP EPG CP EPG CP EPG CP

Initial CUPS support

EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP

EPG CP EPG CP

Future CUPS support

EPG UP EPG UP EPG UP EPGUP

Step 2. Early introduction of 5G EPC and time to market to 5G and position industry analysts. Our CUPS solution
separation of control and user planes you for a later addition of a 5GC, offers the most flexible relation between
The next step is all about preparing the for a dual mode 5G EPC and 5GC. control and user plane nodes, while a
core network to support the new 5G radio. Low latency is one of the flagship hybrid scaling of UP and CP gives more
Depending on your existing EPC solution, capabilities for 5G, enabled by a decoupling than two times lower cost, as recognized
this could be an upgrade of your existing of the control and user plane functions, by a Tier 1 in the United States.
EPC and UDM elements to enable it to with user planes brought closer to Our continuous delivery and deployment
support the new radio using option 3. customers. The introduction of CUPS, of software enables a faster time to market.
This is what we call the 5G EPC, which even at a common location, at this stage For a leading Tier 1 operator, EPC system
allows you to quickly deploy 5G for a fast is a step towards a distributed architecture. upgrades were reduced to hours, delivering
time to market and is suited to operators We offer a complete 5G network opex savings of up to 65 percent.
with ambitions of being the first movers. platform from the start, where the 5G EPC Additionally, our EPC supercharged
If your current EPC and UDM solutions introduction is designed to match radio capacity can deliver 63Gbps at 80 percent
do not allow for a smooth upgrade capabilities and reduces time, integration load on one server with full capacity,
to 5G EPC, deploying an overlaid cost and risks for the first phase. Our 5G EPC resulting in lower cost per subscriber.
Ericsson 5G EPC network together is built on top of the market-leading 4G EPC
with Ericsson radio can secure a quick solution, as recognized by renowned
7 Ericsson | The path to a new world

Ericsson 5G core – all accesses, all services, dual mode operations

2018

Network slicing and automation evolution

Early slice introduction Extended slice usage Expand slice partnership

Packet core and unified data management and policy control evolution

2G/3G/4G 5G introduction 5G evolution

5G EPC
5GC

GSM/WCDMA/LTE
NR NR

Step 3. Optimize with distributed cloud We offer a distributed cloud approach, grow exponentially, requiring more
With a 5G EPC solution in place and early coupling core network functions to advanced mechanisms in the core network
implementation of some 5G use cases, it is both radio functions with workloads and the orchestration layer.
now time to investigate the more advanced leveraging edge computing capabilities. While the main usage of slices was
use cases – those industry use cases, The connection between them is key previously based on service types or
for example, that require ultra-low latency. to avoid sub-optimizations resulting use case categories (e.g. MBB, VoLTE,
This stipulates the placement of different in performance losses. Going beyond enterprise segment), multiple slices
network functions closer to the user. other existing edge computing solutions can now serve individual enterprises,
It could be just user plane resources or in the market, our distributed cloud users and traffic types with the same user
both user plane and other elements from solution implements 3GPP specifications being moved from one slice to another
the control layer; different types of use cases and allows for central, regional depending on service, usage or time of day.
will require different setups. A distributed and local site (edge) deployments, This efficient use of resources is enabled
cloud infrastructure solution will enable a where different user plane and control by dynamic resource orchestration.
flexible and dynamic distribution of network layer application resources are allocated With our Unified Data
elements and resources, according to to where they are most appropriate Management (UDM) solution, for example,
each use case and traffic requirements, in order to deliver the required level of new mechanisms for an optimized and
in an optimized and automated service in the most cost-efficient way. dynamic slice selection based on user
way. Expect experimentation with equipment can be implemented and
different locations for your cloud Step 4. Expand network slicing new network elements could also be
infrastructure, and different preferences This step is less about network sliced for more advanced use cases,
between the four main network slice transformation and more about utilizing such as deploying subscriber database
categories discussed previously. the full potential of network slicing to elements per individual slices.
From a core network perspective, explore new business potential and We offer a holistic approach to network
the functional content is the same as improve efficiency. Having completed slicing across core and radio networks and
what we have in step two. We are reusing each of the previous steps, the network orchestration, to accelerate the adoption
orchestration mechanisms introduced for slicing capabilities of the network will of basic and advanced network slices.
the centralized core, where the distribution now have reached a new level. Many new
closer to subscribers is focused on delivering industry use cases will be possible and
performance and cost improvements. the number of slices in the network may
8 Ericsson | The path to a new world

Dual mode operations 5G EPC/5GC

Subscription and policy data Subscription activation Dynamic subscription

Network exposure
provisioning for service definitions in network slices differentiation in network slices

Unified data storage

Subscription and identification management Dynamic UE and network control Dynamic exposure

Packet core control plane

5GC
5G EPC
SBA
Packet core user plane
P2P

5G access network (3GPP, non 3GPP)

Step 5. Evolve to a dual mode This is enabled through the web-based interworking. Our dual mode core network
core (5G EPC/5GC) APIs where network functions both solution combines both 5G EPC and the
The last step of the evolution journey is self-register and self-subscribe to 5GC in the same solution for 4G and 5G
then to reach the coveted 5GC, which other services. The open web-based access, allowing for higher efficiency
signifies the beginning of a new era. APIs allow third party developers to and better TCO as the user plane and
5GC introduces a new network architecture introduce new functionality on the core many elements of the control plane will
known as service-based architecture (SBA), network. Even if the functional scope for be common to both. This reduces opex
built on cloud native principles. The SBA 5G EPC and 5GC will be similar from the as it is not necessary to keep two parallel
based 5GC is less about a large functionality beginning, we can expect a faster and more networks, and existing investments
lift and more about an architectural shift comprehensive development for 5GC. on the EPC network are protected.
that allows the core network to play the However, the existing 4G network will Moreover, it allows you to evolve your
role of a platform; where services can be still be present for a long time and a core network without service disruptions.
created faster and with more flexibility solution will need to remain in place to
to combine functionality in new ways. serve both 4G and 5G, with 2G and 3G
9 Ericsson | The path to a new world

Building the foundations

Regardless of how you choose to evolve your core

network, there are several building blocks to consider
to reach the 5GC target.

In the five-step approach we grouped

building blocks that logically fit together
and focused on a pure mobile evolution
scenario, but in order to create the best
possible evolution journey for each
operator we need flexibility – the flexibility
to deal with different starting points,
different preferences for what to include
in each step, and the desire to manage a
multi-vendor core network of the future.
We have broken down the proposed
journey into its smaller building blocks,
where each block represents an opportunity
to take action on how to evolve your core
network. They can be combined in different
ways, based on service introduction
and network evolution preferences.
We are also introducing capabilities
such as convergence of the core to enable
mobile, fixed wireless and fixed access
to be served from a common platform.
Our aspiration is to be a core network
evolution partner capable of optimizing
your journey, with all building blocks
available and eliminating time, risk and
cost for each building block you introduce.
We do this by approaching your core
network evolution with a holistic view.
10 Ericsson | The path to a new world

Network functions Launch 5G with Distributed cloud

virtualization 5G EPC option 3 infrastructure

As is To be
Control and user
Network slicing Introduce 5G dual mode core
plane separation

Network functions virtualization (NFV) Control and user plane separation (CUPS)
NFV is reaching maturity and the journey towards the Introduced for 4G, this is the decoupling of two capabilities
future architecture can start. This will pave the way for that are coupled in EPC. This enables increased flexibility
a smooth migration to 5G core. in scaling and topology, as well as independent life
cycle management of their functions. The control and
user planes are decoupled from the start for 5GC.
Network slicing
The first step in achieving network slicing is coupled with
a dedicated core, and leverages DECOR and eDECOR Distributed cloud infrastructure
capabilities introduced in releases 13 and 14 of 3GPP. Emerging 5G and IoT applications are driving demand
Network slicing capabilities can be further enhanced for a new kind of programmable infrastructure with an
with network slices spanning across core and radio increased focus on data-centric processing, security,
borders, enabling finer granularity in the created slices. response time, scalability and resilience. Distributed cloud
This will enable capturing business from specific use expands the possibilities of edge computing to create a
cases, i.e. automotive and sensors, and the ability to offer unified approach across centralized, distributed and
slices with specific characteristics such as low latency. edge resources.

Launching 5G with 5G EPC option 3 Introduce 5G dual mode core

Leverage EPC with parameter enhancements and The introduction of 5G core, based on a service-based
capacity updates to support 5G NR. This is limited architecture, provides the ability to efficiently address a
to architectural option 3 where NR is connected to broad range of new business opportunities. Core network
the EPC via an eNodeB, and can be introduced for functionality is built on cloud native principles with
a limited geographical area or nationwide. advantages in scaling, operations and life cycle management.
Our structured evolution to the 5G dual mode core
allows service providers to embrace cloud native smoothly,
while retaining their extensive learnings from virtualized
4G EPC operations. The service-based interfaces and
APIs for exposure open up the possibility for network
applications to interact with third-party applications and
ecosystems. This enables new business opportunities.

Further resources
5G core solution brief
5G business potential
The guide to capturing the 5G-IoT business potential
5G deployment considerations
Network slicing can be a piece of cake
11 Ericsson | The path to a new world

Supporting your
network evolution

While exploring the challenges faced in defining the best possible core
evolution path in this paper, we have outlined various starting points,
business drivers and strategy considerations that may affect your journey.
It’s clear that the best journey is, in fact, one sculpted to your exact
requirements and ambition level, and divided into manageable steps.

This is where the importance of choosing we have end-to-end system solutions

the right partner for your evolution comes in. that have been defined and extensively Key insights
We have highlighted an example five-step tested to secure you an early and – Getting the 5G core network
approach and some building blocks that smooth time to market. We can offer platform in place is important
we think fit together when it comes to one core system for all accesses and for early exploration of new
evolving your network into a competitive services with a 5G dual mode operations business opportunities.
platform in the emerging economy of core (5G EPC/5GC) for a simplified – 3GPP has defined two alternatives
platforms. No journey will be the same, evolution, even if your starting point is to support 5G NR in release 15:
but we can support you in identifying not from a complete Ericsson 4G core. NR Non-Stand Alone (NSA)
your strategic goals, based on current Our ambition is to be a core network and NR Stand Alone (SA).
capabilities and market conditions, evolution partner capable of optimizing – 5G NR NSA represents a fast
and find the right path for you. your journey, with all building blocks opportunity to introduce
The journey ahead is long, but it can available, and eliminating time, risk and 5G NR, and a majority of
be made considerably easier if you have cost for each building block introduced. operator first-movers are
the support and extensive expertise We do this through a holistic view of your focusing on this alternative.
needed to design the best strategy for core network evolution, with the ultimate – The target architecture for
your network. This will help you meet goal of helping you create a powerful 5G core networks is cloud
aggressive time to market, agility and network platform that’s capable of being native and fully virtualized.
opex reduction objectives while evolving digitally exposed and automated. This will – The existing 4G network will still
your network without service disruption. be key in achieving success in the ICT value be present for a long time and
At Ericsson, we are committed to chain and will help you become a valued a core solution needs to remain
supporting our partners and customers partner in new and existing ecosystems. in place to serve 4G and 5G,
taking the first-mover advantage. Let’s have a deeper discussion on with 2G and 3G interworking.
With 10+ live networks today and your network evolution to see how – The Ericsson dual mode core
hands-on experience from 5G trials, we can simplify your journey. solution combines 5G EPC
and 5GC for all accesses and
services, allowing for higher
efficiency and reduced opex.
– There are several building blocks
to consider to reach the 5GC target.
These can be combined and
introduced in a flexible order.
 Ericsson enables communications service providers
to capture the full value of connectivity. The company’s
portfolio spans Networks, Digital Services, Managed
Services, and Emerging Business and is designed to
help our customers go digital, increase efficiency and
find new revenue streams. Ericsson’s investments in
innovation have delivered the benefits of telephony
and mobile broadband to billions of people around
the world. The Ericsson stock is listed on Nasdaq
Stockholm and on Nasdaq New York.
www.ericsson.com

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