5G Communication Systems: Network Slicing and Virtual Private Network Architecture

Abstract

5G communication systems are being rolled out with multiple technological solutions and applications being fielded on existing as well as enhanced infrastructure. The utilization of 5G systems and infrastructure by verticals over different platforms as well as industries is achieved with slicing. Slicing in 5G provides guaranteed resources for end users of vertical industries and applications over varied platforms, architecture, and infrastructure. Standards for network slicing in 5G have been formulated by 3GPP and further specifications are being released. Implementation of slicing at various layers are being researched. This Paper reviews the advancements in development of specifications for Layer 2 implementation of slicing and communication systems using virtual Private Network and Virtual Transport Network and its architecture. The enhancements to communication systems using existing Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) and its exploitation based on slicing technology has been reviewed. The research challenges and way ahead on same have been discussed including end resource allocation.