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Writer's pictureApeksha Telecom

Exploring 5G Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) Protocols(updated in 2024)

Updated: Feb 19


1. Introduction

The deployment of Exploring 5G networks introduces two distinct protocol modes: Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA). This article explores the differences, features, and implications of SA and NSA protocols in 5G networks.




Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

  2. Understanding 5G Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) Modes

  3. Key Differences Between SA and NSA Protocols

  • a. Core Network Architecture

  • b. Radio Access Network (RAN) Configuration

  • c. Deployment Scenarios

  1. 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) Protocol Overview

  • a. LTE as the Underlying Technology

  • b. Dual Connectivity

  • c. Control Plane and User Plane Separation

  1. 5G Standalone (SA) Protocol Overview

  • a. Full 5G Core Network

  • b. New Service-Based Architecture

  • c. Network Slicing

  1. Benefits and Challenges of SA and NSA Protocols

  • a. Benefits of NSA

  • b. Benefits of SA

  • c. Challenges of NSA

  • d. Challenges of SA

  1. Conclusion

2. Understanding 5G Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) Modes

The SA and NSA modes in 5G refer to the deployment options for introducing 5G technology. NSA utilizes the existing 4G LTE network as an anchor, while SA operates independently with a full 5G core network.

3. Key Differences Between SA and NSA Protocols

  • a. Core Network Architecture: In NSA, the core network relies on the existing LTE Evolved Packet Core (EPC), while SA utilizes a new 5G core network (5GC) architecture.

  • b. Radio Access Network (RAN) Configuration: NSA combines the LTE and 5G radio access networks, whereas SA operates solely on the 5G New Radio (NR) for both control and user plane functions.

  • c. Deployment Scenarios: NSA is typically deployed first to leverage the existing LTE infrastructure, while SA is introduced later with a fully independent 5G network.

4. Exploring 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) Protocol Overview

  • a. LTE as the Underlying Technology: NSA utilizes LTE as the underlying technology for control signaling and initial access, while 5G NR is used for data offloading and enhancing user experience.

  • b. Dual Connectivity: NSA enables simultaneous connections to both LTE and 5G NR, allowing for improved coverage, capacity, and data rates.

  • c. Control Plane and User Plane Separation: In NSA, the control plane functions are handled by the LTE core network, while the user plane functions are split between the LTE and 5G NR.

5. 5G Standalone (SA) Protocol Overview

  • a. Full 5G Core Network: SA operates with a full-fledged 5G core network (5GC), which includes new network functions such as the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), the Session Management Function (SMF), and the User Plane Function (UPF).

  • b. New Service-Based Architecture: SA introduces a service-based architecture (SBA) to enable flexible and scalable network services, facilitating the integration of third-party applications and services.

  • c. Network Slicing: SA supports network slicing, allowing the creation of dedicated virtual networks tailored to specific use cases, industries, or applications.

6. Benefits and Challenges of SA and NSA Protocols

  • a. Benefits of NSA: NSA allows for faster deployment by leveraging existing LTE infrastructure, offers improved coverage and capacity through dual connectivity, and allows for seamless transition from LTE to 5G.

  • b. Benefits of SA: SA provides a fully independent 5G network, enabling the full potential of 5G capabilities such as low latency, high data rates, and network slicing. It also facilitates the integration of new services and applications through the service-based architecture.

  • c. Challenges of NSA: NSA may face limitations in terms of latency and data rates compared to SA due to the reliance on LTE infrastructure. It also requires coordination between LTE and 5G networks, which can introduce complexity.

  • d. Challenges of SA: SA deployment requires the establishment of a new 5G core network, which involves significant investment and infrastructure upgrades. It may also require additional time for deployment compared to NSA.

  • 7. Conclusion The introduction of 5G standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) protocols provides flexibility in the deployment of 5G networks. NSA allows for a faster transition by leveraging existing LTE infrastructure, while SA offers the full potential of 5G with an independent 5G core network. Understanding the differences and implications of SA and NSA protocols is crucial for network operators and service providers to make informed decisions regarding the deployment strategy and maximize the benefits of 5G technology. You May Also Like Our Article on https://www.telecomgurukul.com/post/5g-protocol-testing-course-online https://www.telecomgurukul.com/4g5gprotocoltestingtrainingcertificationcourses Other Useful Resources https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YC3p9L1iohs&list=PLgQvzsPaZX_Zmvc17FPPEcdgQGcoIzLrn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hn5oHm4iCKE&t=4s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNhv85EIw8k&list=PLBC3G7CyizTrPkImJE7k-3hvMCI3BeGGF

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