A 6G RAN-Core control plane convergence framework

With the centralization of the RAN control functionality and with the pushing of Core Network functionality towards the network edge, the thus far very strong separation of concerns between RAN and core cannot be assumed any longer. Instead, almost the same network functionality for subscriber mobility and session management is placed in the same local aggregation point. This article presents a new architecture framework converging this functionality now planned for both RAN and Core Network within a single set of network functions, as well as their integration with the rest of the network components. Furthermore, the proposed new architecture is compared with the current 5G architecture and assessed against the 6G requirements, showing how it outperforms in terms of increased deployment specific customization flexibility and open interfaces.