Home > Glossary > Network slicing

Network slicing

Network slicing is a technique used in 5G and other advanced wireless communication systems to create multiple, virtualized networks on a single physical infrastructure. Each virtual network, or
“slice,” is tailored to meet the specific requirements and needs of a particular type of user or service.

How does network slicing benefit virtual reality gaming in terms of bandwidth and latency?

Network slicing is a revolutionary concept in telecommunications that allows network operators to create virtualized networks tailored to the specific requirements of different applications and user needs.

For instance, a network slice can be dedicated to a high-bandwidth, low-latency application like virtual reality gaming, ensuring an immersive and lag-free gaming experience.

On the other hand, another slice can be designed for a low-bandwidth, high-reliability application such as remote surgery, guaranteeing uninterrupted and secure connectivity for critical medical procedures.

By leveraging network slicing on a single physical infrastructure, operators gain the ability to optimize resource allocation and customize network performance, effectively meeting the diverse demands of various applications.

The implementation of network slicing is made possible through cutting-edge technologies like software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV). SDN allows operators to separate the control plane from the data plane, enabling centralized control and management of network resources. NFV, on the other hand, allows network functions to be virtualized and deployed as software instances on commodity hardware.

Together, SDN and NFV provide the foundation for dynamic creation and management of virtualized networks. Network operators can rapidly allocate resources, establish quality of service (QoS) parameters, and seamlessly scale capacity to meet the changing demands of different slices. This flexibility and agility empower operators to respond quickly to evolving user needs and market conditions.

The adoption of network slicing brings numerous benefits to both network operators and end users. Operators can efficiently utilize their physical infrastructure by leveraging shared resources across multiple network slices. This consolidation leads to cost savings and improved resource utilization.

Furthermore, network slicing enables operators to offer differentiated services, catering to diverse applications and user requirements.

End users benefit from enhanced service quality and performance, as their specific needs are prioritized within their dedicated network slice. For example, virtual reality gamers can enjoy
low-latency connections, while remote surgery applications can operate with high reliability and security. With network slicing, the telecommunications industry is poised to unlock new opportunities, accelerate innovation, and deliver tailored connectivity solutions to a wide range of industries and users.

Share