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What are all the possible deployment options ?

There are various different types of 5G deployment described in RP-161266. Out of these, Option 2 (SA) and Option 3 (NSA) are the most widely deployed options. Each deployment option represents a different way of integrating 5G New Radio (NR) and LTE technologies, as well as the core network (EPC or 5GC/NGCN). These options allow operators to gradually evolve their networks, balancing investment, coverage, and performance. The choice of deployment impacts how quickly new 5G features can be introduced, the types of devices supported, and the overall user experience. Below is a summary of the main deployment options and what they mean in practice:

  • Option 1: Standalone LTE, EPC connected-legacy. This is the traditional LTE network with no 5G NR involved, using the Evolved Packet Core (EPC).
  • Option 2: Standalone NR, NGCN connected. Pure 5G deployment where NR connects directly to the 5G Core (NGCN), enabling all 5G features such as network slicing and ultra-low latency.
  • Option 3: Non-Standalone/LTE Assisted, EPC connected. The most common early 5G deployment, where NR is anchored to an existing LTE network and EPC, allowing rapid rollout but with some limitations on 5G capabilities.
  • Option 3a: Non-Standalone/LTE Assisted, EPC connected (NR directly connected to EPC). A variant of Option 3, with NR connecting directly to EPC for certain functions.
  • Option 4: Non-Standalone/LTE Assisted, NGCN connected. Here, LTE and NR work together, but the core network is the new 5G Core (NGCN), supporting more advanced features.
  • Option 4a: Non-Standalone/LTE Assisted, NGCN connected (eNB directly connected to NGCN). A variant of Option 4, with LTE eNB directly connected to the 5G Core.
  • Option 5: Standalone LTE, NGCN connected. LTE radio access is used, but the core network is upgraded to 5G Core, allowing some 5G services over LTE.
  • Option 6: Standalone NGNR, EPC connected. Standalone Next Generation NR (NGNR) connects to the legacy EPC, a less common scenario.
  • Option 7: Non-Standalone/LTE Assisted, NGCN connected (eNB directly connected to NGCN and gNB connected to NGCN via LTE). Both LTE and NR are used, with complex interconnections to the 5G Core.
  • Option 7a: Non-Standalone/LTE Assisted, NGCN connected (both eNB and gNB directly connected to NGCN). Both LTE and NR have direct connections to the 5G Core, maximizing flexibility and performance.
  • Option 8: Non-Standalone/NR Assisted, EPC connected (gNB directly connected to EPC and eNB connected to EPC via NR). NR assists LTE, with both types of base stations connected to the legacy core.
  • Option 8a: Non-Standalone/NR Assisted, EPC connected (both eNB and gNB directly connected to EPC). Both LTE and NR base stations connect directly to the EPC, providing another migration path.
In summary, these deployment options provide operators with a flexible roadmap for introducing 5G, allowing them to leverage existing LTE infrastructure while gradually transitioning to full 5G capabilities. The choice of option depends on factors such as spectrum availability, device support, investment strategy, and the desired pace of innovation.

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