Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1192126
10 I ICT TODAY FIGURE 3: End-to-end network slicing relies on optimal domain-specific and cross-domain performance from the device to external servers. state of synergy and eventual fusion. As an essential part of the 5G architecture, the performance of the underlying fiber infrastructure will directly affect the experience of 5G. In other words, any fiber issues will be interpreted as 5G issues. Fiber will be a key enabler for 5G end-to-end network slicing too. End-to-End Network Slicing End-to-end network slicing is arguably the defining feature of 5G. Network domain-specific (e.g., core) slicing is not a new concept. What is new is the ability to split network resources into virtual network slices with distinct character- istics and service level agreement (SLA) requirements and to provide users/devices with the relevant service and true end-to-end network performance. It should be evident from Figure 3 that the transport layer has a crucial role to play in network slicing. This is where optical fiber would come to the fore. High-Level Opportunities Figure 4 depicts the opportunities that 5G brings to network operators. 5G promises: • Optimal efficiency in the use of network resources. • Improved agility in introducing new services so as to follow the over-the-top (OTT) and digital service provider (DSP) paradigms. • An enhanced and more reliable mobile user experience. • Increased relevance to a number of consumer and enterprise verticals as an enabler of exciting and mission-critical use cases. • A solid foundation for business transformation. Of particular significance is the adoption of new business models, such as network as a service (NaaS). Based on end-to-end network slicing, 5G can facilitate the provision of distinct slices for different service FIGURE 4: High-level opportunities for 5G network operators. Independent slices Core cloud Edge cloud vCore vCore vCore CU/DU CU/DU CU/DU MEC cache V2X server vIMS UHD video slice Critical IoT slice Transport network Radio Telephony slice internet Optimal resource efficiency OTT/DSP service agility Better user experience Increased, diverse relevance New business models