Product Description
The User Plane Function (UPF) is one of the network functions (NFs) of the 5G core network (5GC). The UPF is responsible for packet routing and forwarding, packet inspection, QoS handling, and external PDU session for interconnecting Data Network (DN), in the 5G architecture.
UPF is a distinct Virtual Network Function (VNF) that offers a high-performance forwarding engine for the user traffic. Using Vector Packet Processing (VPP) technology, the UPF achieves ultra-fast packet forwarding while retaining compatibility with all the user plane functionality. For instance, Shallow Packet Inspection(SPI)/Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), traffic optimization, and inline services (NAT, Firewall, DNS snooping, and so on). UPF is currently designed to offer Integrated Deep Packet Based Inspection (DPI) Services.
A single instance of UPF provides some or all the following functionalities:
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Anchor point for Intra-RAT and Inter-RAT mobility (when applicable).
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External PDU session point of interconnect to Data Network.
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Packet routing and forwarding.
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Packet inspection. For example, Application detection that is based on the service data flow template and the optional PFDs received from the SMF in addition.
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User Plane part of policy rule enforcement. For example, Gating, Redirection, Traffic steering.
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Lawful intercept (UP collection).
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Traffic usage reporting.
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QoS handling for User Plane. For example, Uplink (UL) and Downlink (DL) rate enforcement, Reflective QoS marking in DL, and so on.
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Uplink Traffic verification (SDF to QoS Flow mapping).
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Transport level packet marking in the Uplink and Downlink.
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Downlink packet buffering and Downlink Data Notification triggering.
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Sending and forwarding of one or more "End Marker" to the source NG-RAN node.