Cost-efficient method for managing network slices in a multi-service 5G core network

“Network slicing” means creating logically isolated virtual networks (slices) running different network functions for different services. However, this technology imposes a loss of multiplexing gain available in monolithic networks as resources allocated to each slice become exclusive and isolated. This situation leads to resource wastage. In this paper, we propose a concept called “per-group slicing” and an algorithm for efficiently automating mechanisms for service grouping and slice creation/accommodation to improve multiplexing gain and resource-usage efficiency. Moreover, the concept is evaluated in consideration of future services discussed in the Next Generation Mobile Networks (NGMN) initiative. In addition, the loss in multiplexing gain imposed by network slicing technology was quantitatively evaluated on a testbed, and a means of balancing accommodation of diverse services and resource wastage when a network slice is used was devised.