Verification and validation framework for 5G network services and apps

摘要

5G does not only aim at higher capacity and lower latency than current 4G in mobile broadband networks, but also to increase the level of programmability, control and flexibility to meet the requirements from innovative use cases such as IoT, smart manufacturing, and immersive media. However, several difficulties still need to be overcome for a better technological adoption. To reduce the time-to-market for networked services and to lower the entry barrier to third party developers of VNFs and network services, an integrated development and operations (DevOps) methodology is a promising way. One of the biggest challenges in upcoming 5G DevOps is the validation and verification (V&V) of individual VNFs and network services (VNF graphs) so that operators can be sure of their behavior. In this paper, we propose an NFV architecture that supports the DevOps methodology with a V&V platform and an advanced NFV catalogue. The conceptual components of the V&V platform, the foreseen methodology and the outcomes are explained. Finally, we explore some perspectives in applying such V&V approach in another 5G research project.