Conclusion

NF placement is a critical capability to unlocking the business value of 5G and network slicing. However, NF placement optimization can be a complex problem given a large number of considerations the orchestration system needs to take into account. To provide guarantees around isolation, capacity, latency and other QoS measures across each slice, while managing multiple end-to-end slices across diverse infrastructures, requires a step-up for existing orchestration systems.

We've discussed key capabilities that next-generation NF placement systems need to provide and key architectural elements crucial to the success of these systems. With the successful rollout of such a system, CSPs can unlock a whole series of dynamic new cases from industry 4.0 to telemedicine to autonomous vehicles.

As CSPs build out the network for 5GC and populate the RAN with 5G NR radios, this is the opportune time to update the foundations of their orchestration system and upgrade to one that can enable the next generation of services that 5G will bring.

Whether CSPs choose to pursue building such systems in-house, or with a trusted and capable vendor partner, we've laid out a three-phase approach that CSPs can use as a guidebook in their journey towards autonomous NF placement. The rewards for succeeding in this endeavor will be a foundation for innovative new services that will yield an increase in CSP profits and improve shareholder value.