Data-Centric Service-Based Architecture for Edge-Native 6G Network

Beginning with 5G, mobile networks moved away from the point-to-point model used by previous generations toward a service-based architecture (SBA) focused on a cloud-native design. While 5G considers the SBA mainly as a central location with a single administrative domain, 6G is expected to become more of a fully-distributed system. This raises the need for flexible service routing capabilities that allow the use of distributed resources available over multiple infrastructures. This article embraces this vision and explores the use of data-centric and dataflow mechanisms for a seamless realization, and interaction, of composable services in a fully distributed edge-native 6G architecture. The feasibility and suitability of this vision are showcased through a proof-of-concept prototype, validated over selected 5G workflows using different technologies, with results demonstrating the advantages of pursuing data-centric and dataflow approaches.