4G to 5G migration strategies
The evolution from 4G to 5G can vary depending on an MNO’s existing network status and strategy. First, remember that the control plane and UE signaling are managed by the master node, the eNB in NSA architecture with Option 3, while it is managed by the gNB in SA mode with Option 2. Since 5G coverage is very limited in the initial stage of 5G rollouts, the control plane is managed by eNBs with nationwide 4G coverage, and as the 5G coverage expands, the control plane can then be managed by gNBs. So, this is the essential consideration behind the 4G to 5G transition and migration strategy from an MNO’s perspective:
Figure 9.10 – 4G to 5G migration strategies
Before introducing 5G, we assume that an MNO has an existing 4G network, covered by Option 1, which comprises an eNB and EPC. As discussed previously, Option 3 can be quickly deployed by upgrading the existing 4G nodes and deploying 5G gNBs, so the...
