The 5G Standalone Advantage
5G Standalone (SA) represents the true realization of 5G's potential. Unlike Non-Standalone (NSA) deployments that rely on existing 4G LTE infrastructure for control plane functions, 5G SA operates with a fully cloud-native 5G Core network. This architecture unlocks the full spectrum of 5G capabilities that operators and enterprises have been waiting for.
With our updated platform, volte.io now provides complete integration capabilities for 5G SA core networks, enabling operators to leverage the full potential of next-generation mobile communications.
Why 5G Standalone Matters
5G SA enables ultra-low latency, network slicing, and massive IoT connectivity that simply isn't possible with NSA deployments. For operators serious about delivering differentiated 5G services, SA is the only path forward.
Key 5G Core Network Functions
Our integration supports the complete set of 5G Core network functions defined by 3GPP, providing operators with a comprehensive solution for their 5G deployments:
🔐 AMF
Access and Mobility Management Function handles registration, connection, and mobility management for UEs.
📊 SMF
Session Management Function manages PDU sessions, IP address allocation, and policy enforcement.
🌐 UPF
User Plane Function handles packet routing, forwarding, and QoS enforcement in the user plane.
👤 UDM/UDR
Unified Data Management and Repository for subscriber data, authentication, and authorization.
⚡ PCF
Policy Control Function provides unified policy framework for network slicing and QoS.
🔗 NRF
Network Repository Function enables service discovery and NF profile management.
5G SA vs. 5G NSA: Understanding the Difference
The choice between 5G Standalone and Non-Standalone has significant implications for network capabilities and future readiness:
| Capability | 5G NSA | 5G SA |
|---|---|---|
| Core Network | 4G EPC | 5G Core (SBA) |
| Latency | ~30-50ms | <10ms (URLLC: <1ms) |
| Network Slicing | Limited | Full Support |
| mMTC Support | Via LTE | Native 5G |
| Edge Computing | Basic | Advanced MEC Integration |
| Energy Efficiency | Dual connectivity overhead | Optimized single connection |
VoNR: Voice over New Radio
With 5G SA comes the ability to deliver voice services natively over the 5G network – Voice over New Radio (VoNR). Our IMS integration ensures seamless voice connectivity for 5G subscribers:
- HD Voice Quality: EVS codec support for superior audio clarity
- Faster Call Setup: Reduced call establishment times compared to VoLTE fallback
- Seamless Handover: Continuous voice sessions during 5G-to-4G transitions
- Video Calling: Native support for high-definition video calls over 5G
- Emergency Services: Full support for 5G emergency calling requirements
Network Slicing Ready
One of the most transformative capabilities of 5G SA is network slicing. Our platform fully supports the creation and management of network slices, enabling operators to offer tailored connectivity services:
Enterprise Slices
Dedicated network resources with guaranteed SLAs for enterprise customers. Perfect for Industry 4.0 applications, private 5G deployments, and mission-critical communications.
IoT Slices
Optimized for massive IoT deployments with focus on energy efficiency and device density rather than throughput. Ideal for smart city, agriculture, and logistics applications.
Consumer Enhanced Mobile Broadband
Premium connectivity slices for gaming, AR/VR, and 4K/8K streaming services with optimized QoS parameters.
Service-Based Architecture
Our 5G Core integration is built on the service-based architecture (SBA) principles defined by 3GPP. All network functions communicate via RESTful APIs over HTTP/2, enabling flexible deployment and seamless interoperability.
Migration Path from 4G
For operators with existing 4G deployments, we provide clear migration paths to 5G SA:
- Assessment: Evaluate current infrastructure and identify upgrade requirements
- Parallel Deployment: Deploy 5G Core alongside existing EPC
- Integration: Connect volte.io services to both 4G and 5G cores
- Migration: Gradually transition subscribers to 5G SA
- Optimization: Enable advanced 5G features and network slicing