Towards Supporting Intelligence in 5G/6G Core Networks: NWDAF Implementation and Initial Analysis

Wireless networks, in the fifth-generation and beyond, must support diverse network applications which will support the numerous and demanding connections of today's and tomorrow's devices. Requirements such as high data rates, low latencies, and reliability are crucial considerations and artificial intelligence is incorporated to achieve these requirements for a large number of connected devices. Specifically, intelligent methods and frameworks for advanced analysis are employed by the 5G Core Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) to detect patterns and ascribe detailed action information to accommodate end users and improve network performance. To this end, the work presented in this paper incorporates a functional NWDAF into a 5G network developed using open source software. Furthermore, an analysis of the network data collected by the NWDAF and the valuable insights which can be drawn from it have been presented with detailed Network Function interactions. An example application of such insights used for intelligent network management is outlined. Finally, the expected limitations of 5G networks are discussed as motivation for the development of 6G networks.

I. Introduction

The telecommunications industry has sparked a dramatic transition to novel and improved high-speed wireless commu-nications architectures in industry and society. The design and operation of 5G and Beyond (5G+) networks is a tightly woven cooperation of developments in both the 5G Core and 5G radio networks that has led the charge for fast-paced development in the communications industry. The 5G+ concept has become a critical tool in the introduction and development of Industry 4.0, a paradigm shift of modern wireless communications systems to true, digital economies [1].