Unlock the potential of 5G network slicing

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5G network slicing allows multiple virtual networks to be created on a single shared physical network. Each slice functions like a private lane on a highway with dedicated resources and pathways. The dynamic allocation of resources improves flexibility and efficiency. Network slices can support multiple applications, including augmented reality, internet of things (IoT), autonomous vehicles and more. Each slice is customized to certain application specifications for speed, capacity and security. Network slicing lets the network adapt to different use cases for optimal performance and resource utilization. Manufacturers and operators must adhere to rigorous testing and validation regulations and standards.

Rohde & Schwarz solution

Rohde & Schwarz offers a comprehensive suite of tools and solutions for testing and validating network slicing in 5G devices. These solutions are designed to ensure that each network slice operates efficiently and meets its specific performance requirements. The CMX500 radio communication tester, a 5G one-box signaling tester, is a versatile tool that helps create and manage network slices by simulating mobile networks.

The tester provides a controlled environment for end-toend testing of network slicing functions. Slice configuration with XLAPI and R&S®CMsquares Snippets makes the setup of network slices flexible and efficient for precise configuration and automation of test cases while simulating different network slicing scenarios. The CMX500 is a flexible solution for testing different kind of traffic and route selection descriptors and helps verify the data is going an individual slice.

Network slicing visualization tools, such as throughput (TP) monitor, delay measurement and flow/bearer monitor, visualize and monitor individual slices in detail. The tools help identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and ensure that each slice meets quality of service (QoS) requirements. Network slicing message analysis enables detailed analysis of non-access stratum (NAS) messages between user equipment (UE) and a network to quickly identify and troubleshoot issues by visualizing the network slice signaling information and the data traveling through each slice.

Applications

Network slicing is used in various scenarios to improve 5G network performance and efficiency. The CMX500 plays a crucial role by providing a controlled environment for testing and validating network slicing functions. When testing network slicing for mobile phones, several aspects need to be taken into consideration.

Quality of service (QoS)

Ensuring slice QoS settings meet service requirements, such as voice, is crucial. Various scenarios need to be tested, such as voice quality verification with POLQA on the CMX500. Proper QoS settings ensure that applications have the necessary bandwidth and are given the priority to function.

Isolation between slices

Keeping slices isolated is vital to ensure that one slice does not impact others. Isolation can be verified with packet capture or IP analysis to ensure the correct slice is used. Test scenarios might include high traffic on slice 1, a voice call on slice 2 or IoT packets on slice 3. Evaluating security helps make sure data and services between slices are not compromised.

End-to-end testing

End-to-end testing with the CMX500 helps create comprehensive performance and reliability assessments of slices in real application scenarios. User experience here is verified for different applications based on various slices. End-to-end testing helps understand the overall effectiveness of network slicing in practical use cases.

User experience

Evaluating the user experience while services use different slices is important. Assessing load times, streaming quality and response times are all part of the evaluation. Usabilitymtesting makes sure application interfaces are intuitive and clearly communicate slice functions to enhance overall user satisfaction.

Summary

The CMX500 radio communication tester is essential for testing and validating 5G network slices. Comprehensive capabilities enable precise configuration, monitoring and analysis of network slices to make sure that each application receives the necessary resources and has the proper quality of service.