5G System Architecture: SA/NSA, Call Flow, Dual Connectivity

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of 5G mobile network technologies, from foundational concepts to advanced network architecture, deployment models, and operational procedures. It is designed for telecommunications professionals, engineers, and students seeking in-depth knowledge of 5G systems, including their design principles, key components, and service capabilities. Participants will explore 5G fundamentals, architecture evolution, core network virtualization, deployment strategies, call flows, and performance-enhancing features like Dual Connectivity and Carrier Aggregation.

Module 1: 5G Foundations & Vision

This module introduces the core concepts and the driving vision behind 5G technology. Participants will explore:

• 5G Fundamentals – The evolution from 4G LTE to 5G and key differences.

• 5G Key Service Areas – Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC), and Massive IoT (mMTC).

• 5G Technical Capabilities – Understanding bandwidth efficiency, latency improvements, and reliability standards.

Module 2: 5G Network Architecture

This module dives into the structural and functional design of 5G networks:

• Overview of traditional telecom network layers and their evolution.

• Building blocks of 5G architecture – including RAN, transport, and core networks.

• Comparison between legacy architectures and 5G’s service-based design.

• Detailed exploration of Radio Access Network (RAN), 5G New Radio (NR), and transport architecture.

• Introduction to Service Aware Transport Networks (SATN) and the 5G Core (5GC).

Module 3: 5G Core Network & Virtualization

This advanced module focuses on the service-based architecture (SBA) of the 5G Core and its virtualization framework:

• Reference Core Network Architecture and its logical components.

• Key functions such as AMF, SMF, UPF, PCF, UDM, NSSF, NRF, and NWDAF.

• Core protocols including HTTP/2 for service-based communication.

• Overview of Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and orchestration in the 5G ecosystem.

Module 4: 5G Call Flows – Registration, PDU Establishment & QoS

This module provides an operational perspective, detailing how 5G manages device connectivity and data sessions:

• Initial Access & Registration procedures in 5G NR.

• Step-by-step Call Setup and Context Establishment flows.

• Understanding RRC functions, states, and transitions.

• Deep dive into Network Slicing (NSSAI), AMF selection, and QoS flow management.

• PDU Session Establishment and Quality of Service handling for differentiated user experiences.

Module 5: 5G Deployment Options – SA vs NSA

Participants will learn about real-world deployment models and strategies:

• Comparison of Frequency Ranges (FR1 vs FR2) and related use cases.

• Analysis of Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) deployment options.

• Detailed architecture of SA Option 2 and NSA Option 3x (EN-DC).

• Key interfaces, components, and operational benefits of each approach.

• Applications, limitations, and transition strategies from NSA to SA.

Module 6: Dual Connectivity – EN-DC & NR-DC

This module covers multi-connectivity mechanisms that enhance performance and reliability:

• Understanding Dual Connectivity concepts and roles of PCell, PSCell, and SCell.

• Detailed EN-DC and NR-DC workflows and deployment scenarios.

• Key benefits of simultaneous connectivity across different RATs (E-UTRA and NR).

Module 7: Carrier Aggregation in NSA & SA

The final module explores performance enhancement through spectrum aggregation:

• Overview and principles of Carrier Aggregation (CA) in 5G.

• Implementation and configuration in NSA and SA modes.

• Relationship between Dual Connectivity (DC) and CA.

• UE and Network considerations, scheduling, and mobility management.

• Comparative analysis of CA vs DC performance and use cases.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the end-to-end architecture and service-based framework of 5G networks.

• Explain the roles of key network functions in 5GC and RAN.

• Evaluate deployment models (SA/NSA) and their practical applications.

• Analyze 5G call flows, QoS mechanisms, and mobility procedures.

• Describe advanced concepts like Dual Connectivity and Carrier Aggregation and their impact on network performance.