Unified Communications, Network Security
Article | July 10, 2023
Choosing the right 5G architecture is crucial for enhancing operations while keeping scalability and budget in mind. Learn whether SA or NSA is more suitable for your business needs with this article.
1. Introduction to 5G Network Architectures
2. What is 5G SA?
2.1 Characteristics of SA Architecture
2.2 Benefits of SA Architecture
3. What is 5G NSA?
3.1 Characteristics of NSA Architecture
3.2 Benefits of NSA Architecture
4. Factors to Consider When Choosing Between SA and NSA
4.1 Cost Implications of Each Architecture
4.2 Future Implications of Each Architecture
5. Conclusion
1. Introduction to 5G Network Architectures
Widespread implementation of 5G is transforming how businesses across verticals operate, providing enhanced speed, low latency, and massive connectivity. The advancements in 5G system architecture enable new use cases, from autonomous vehicles to smart cities.
There are currently two types of 5G network architecture, namely 5G standalone (5G SA) and 5G non-standalone (5G NSA). These two architectures differ in how they connect to the existing 4G infrastructure, the type of equipment required, and the level of network independence. Therefore, understanding the difference between SA and NSA is crucial for companies and organizations implementing 5G architecture.
2. What is 5G SA?
5G SA architecture is an entirely new technology that uses 5G core network architecture, independent of the current 4G LTE network. It has various use cases, such as combining 5G with AI and edge use cases.
2.1 Characteristics of SA Architecture
Independent Network: All components of the architecture, including the 5G core architecture, radio access network, and user equipment, are not reliant on any 4G technology.
High Performance: 5G SA architecture is optimized for high performance and low latency, enabling fast data transfer rates and near-instantaneous response times.
Distributed Architecture: This allows efficient resource allocation and dynamic management of network resources.
End-to-End Encryption: It provides end-to-end encryption, which ensures that data is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
Higher Cost: 5G SA architecture is more expensive to implement than NSA architecture due to the need for a fully independent 5G network infrastructure.
2.2 Benefits of SA Architecture
Low Latency: Applications of 5G that require real-time processing are only possible with SA architecture.
Customization: As SA does not depend on existing network architecture, it can be tailored to company requirements. It also enables network slicing for 5G enterprise private network use cases.
Security: End-to-end encryptions ensure a more secure network, and 5G network slicing keeps various access levels separate.
Scalability: 5G architecture is designed to be highly scalable and handle large volumes of data and devices.
Future-proofing: SA architecture will be able to support upcoming 5G features and capabilities by design.
3. What is 5G NSA?
5G NSA provides a transition into 'true' 5G architecture by incorporating 4G network infrastructure for deployment.
3.1 Characteristics of NSA Architecture
Non-Independent Network: 5G NSA architecture is designed to leverage the existing 4G infrastructure to deliver 5G services.
Transition to SA: NSA offers lower latencies and faster speeds than 4G LTE without deploying 5G architecture.
Integrated Deployment: 5G NSA can be deployed quickly since it integrates existing infrastructure.
Limited Scalability: As it relies on the existing 4G infrastructure, NSA is limited in scaling.
Low Scalability: There is a lower limit on how many devices can join the network and the data volume that can be processed on NSA.
3.2 Benefits of NSA Architecture
Faster Deployment: 5G NSA architecture can be deployed more rapidly than SA architecture.
Easier Integration: 4G integration with existing networks is easier since it uses architecture.
Cost-effective: 5G NSA architecture is generally less expensive to implement as it doesn't require a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure to a 5G core architecture.
Improvement Over 4G: While not providing the speed and low latency of 'true' 5G, NSA offers significant improvements over 4G networks.
4. Factors to Consider When Choosing Between SA and NSA
4.1 Cost Implications of Each Architecture
SA architecture requires a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure, which can result in higher infrastructure and deployment costs. However, SA architecture can be more cost-effective in the long run due to its future-proof design and ability to provide greater scalability and customization.
On the other hand, NSA architecture leverages the existing 4G infrastructure, resulting in lower infrastructure and deployment costs. However, upgrading and maintaining an existing 4G network to support 5G technology can be complex and may result in higher operational costs in the long run.
4.2 Future Implications of Each Architecture
SA architecture is designed to be future-proof and scalable, supporting upcoming 5G features and capabilities. This can give organizations greater flexibility and agility to respond to changing business needs and emerging technologies. On the other hand, NSA architecture may be less future-proof and require additional investments in infrastructure and resources to support new 5G features and capabilities.
5. Conclusion
While NSA architecture may offer lower upfront costs and a faster deployment timeline, SA architecture may be more future-proof and scalable in the long run. Choosing the appropriate 5G architecture is a critical determinant for organizations aiming to utilize 5G technology in building a connected industry of the future. Organizations must evaluate their requirements and consider each architecture's short and long-term costs and operational implications before making a decision.
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5G
Article | May 18, 2023
Latency – the time it takes for devices to communicate with each other or with the server that’s imparting information – was already pretty low with 4G, but 5G will basically make it disappear. This development is great news for new tech forays into remote real-time gaming and self-driving cars, as the communication needs to be instantaneous for hiccup-free gameplay and to guarantee the safety of passengers. lthough there has been much media coverage regarding 5G’s health-related dangers and conspiracy-driven connection to the coronavirus, many people are still in the dark about what the 5G network can bring to the everyday internet user.
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5G
Article | September 28, 2023
Uncover the future of network monitoring at computer networking conferences. Explore insights, collaborations, and growth opportunities to harness the power of secured network infrastructures.
Network monitoring is a critical aspect of the ever-evolving networking industry; helping ensure efficient and secure operation. It involves the continuous surveillance, analysis, and management of network infrastructure, performance, and security. To stay abreast of the latest developments and advancements in this field, industry executives and managers must attend the upcoming network monitoring conferences scheduled between June and September 2023. The events provide a crucial platform for professionals to gain in-depth insights into emerging trends, innovative technologies, and best practices in network monitoring. The computer network monitoring conferences aims to address challenges businesses face with IT infrastructure, operations and cloud. The conferences are broken up into several tracks, each with a different area of focus. The agenda and key speakers offer more opportunities to learn and discover knowledge and improve the network monitoring operations.
Top 7 Network Monitoring Conferences of 2023
1.TMA Conference 2023
June 26-30, 2023 | Naples (Italy)
The 7th edition of Network Traffic Measurement and Analysis Conference will offer a significant opportunity for leaders in the networking industry. Organized by the prestigious University of Naples Federico II, the TMA Conference 2023 provides a platform for presenting cutting-edge research and controversial work in network measurements. One of the Technical Program Committee (TPC) chairs for this year's conference is Johanna Ullrich, a renowned researcher at SBA Research and the Head of the Networks and Critical Infrastructures Security Research Group. With her expertise and insights, Ullrich will share insights with a compelling keynote speech that will offer valuable knowledge to attendees. Moreover, the event boasts technical sponsorship from reputable organizations such as IFIP, IFIP TC6-WG6.6, IEEE, and IEEE ComSoc, further solidifying its significance in the networking industry.
2.IEEE International Black Sea Conference on Communications and Networking
July 4-7, 2023 | Istanbul (Turkey)
A significant event for networking industry leaders, IEEE BlackSeaCom 2023, offers grants to participants who have registered and co-authored accepted papers, fostering engagement and recognition within the conference networks. The special session on machine learning and intelligent algorithms for emerging wireless communications brings forth groundbreaking research. Esteemed speakers like Henning Schulzrinne, Melike Erol-Kantarci, Bülent Kaytaz, and BASIL MANOUSSOS to offer valuable insights about network monitoring in the event. Attending this network monitoring conference will allow industry leaders to network, collaborate, and stay updated on the latest advancements in event monitoring and network monitoring events.
3.IEEE International Symposium on Local and Metropolitan Area Networks
July 10-11, 2023 | London (UK)
IEEE LANMAN 2023 provides a robust platform for industry leaders by bringing together experts to discuss the latest technical advances in local and metropolitan area networking. With a focus on theory and experimentation, LANMAN 2023 invites advanced papers pushing network monitoring events' boundaries. The keynote speakers, including Tommaso Melodia and William Lincoln Smith, are to delve into topics like open RAN systems, edge computing, routing, and network functions. Attending LANMAN 2023 allows industry leaders to expand their conference networks, gain valuable insights, and stay at the forefront of network events and management, empowering them to drive innovation and enhance their network monitoring strategies.
4.International Conference on Computer Communications and Networks (ICCCN 2023)
July 24-26 2024 | Hawaii (US)
A must-attend event for computer communications and network industry leaders serves as a platform for presenting innovative ideas and fundamental advancements in computer communications and networks. The conference facilitates communication and collaboration among researchers and practitioners, driving scientific and technological innovation to enhance communications and networking. Keynote speakers including, Ness B. Shroff, Puneet Sharma, and Dr. Gene Tsudik will address designing future XG networks, complexities of edge-to-cloud platforms, and compromise/malware detection for low-end devices. Attending ICCCN will help expand network through conferences, gain a deeper understanding, and advance their network monitoring techniques with shared expertise and knowledge.
5.SmartNets 2023
July 25-27, 2023| Istanbul (Turkey)
SmartNets 2023 is a pivotal networking conference aiming to bridge the gap between the physical world and cyberspace by connecting everything. The event will bring together experts and researchers from academia to discuss the challenges and solutions in areas like embedded equipment design, resource-constrained media communications, security, data analysis, and services. The conference will be focusing on future scientific issues, covering topics such as Industry 4.0, smart cities, healthcare systems, big data analytics, edge computing, next-generation networks, and more. SmartNets 2023 will enable leaders to gain access to the latest research findings, address digital transformation challenges, explore wireless communication technologies, and exchange experiences on implementing secure and reliable communication services.
6.IEEE International Mediterranean Conference on Communications and Networking
September 4-7, 2023 | Dubrovnik (Croatia)
IEEE MeditCom is a highly anticipated networking conference that brings together worldwide visionaries from academia, research labs, and industry. The event will focus on addressing the challenges in communications and networking. It will provide a platform for researchers to present their work on various topics, including theoretical and systems research and vertical technologies. By attending IEEE MeditCom, industry leaders in the networking industry will be able to discover the latest advancements and research findings. Furthermore, the conference will offer an opportunity to engage with local IEEE Sections, ComSoc Chapters, and Sister Societies from the Mediterranean region. The presence of distinguished keynote speakers like Gerhard P. Fettweis, Petar Popovski, Jean-Claude Belfiore, Mohamed-Slim Alouini, and Antonia M. Tulino will further enhance the value of this event.
7.Cyber Security Training at SANS Network Security Las Vegas 2023
September 6-11, 2023 | Las Vegas (US)
SANS Network Security 2023 offers industry leaders in the network industry the opportunity to learn valuable real-world cybersecurity skills from experts. The event, both live online and in Las Vegas, will provide interactive training with hands-on labs and the chance to participate in NetWars Tournaments. Attending SANS Network Security will allow professionals to enhance their knowledge, network with peers in real-time, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. With courses aligned with GIAC certifications, attendees can validate their expertise in specialized InfoSec, network monitoring domains and job-specific roles. Jon Gorenflo, a prominent figure in the field, is a keynote speaker at the event, and will be sharing his expertise and on-field experience.
Conclusion
The event listing showcases numerous opportunities for networking businesses to gain a competitive edge. By experiencing these upcoming conferences, industry leaders can tap into the latest research, emerging technologies, and best methods in network monitoring. This invaluable knowledge equips them to make informed decisions, develop innovative solutions, and optimize processes. The conferences allow to connect and enable businesses to explore new avenues, forge strategic alliances, and unlock potential growth opportunities. Ultimately, the comprehensive insights gained from these conferences empower networking businesses to adapt to evolving market dynamics, enhance their capabilities, and thrive in an innovative environment.
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Data Center Networking
Article | August 10, 2022
There was a time when network security meant having servers on-site. A firewall would protect company data whenever internet traffic entered and exited the network. But, what about today? Modern businesses do not strictly function on-premise.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people working off-site part-time or full-time increased enormously – and suddenly. This change compelled cybersecurity professionals to reconsider their security measures. Their online privacy solutions had to ensure that their most precious asset — their data — was secure regardless of where workers accessed it.
Even when restrictions are lifted, businesses continue to use remote teams. As a result, more and more of a company's critical data and services are being housed in the cloud. These two criteria indicate that the need to examine network security on a regular basis is here to stay.
The good news is that a VPN, or virtual private network, is one of the most simple and widely accessible network security solutions for remote worker internet access.
Do VPNs Provide Reliable Business Security?
A virtual private network is a kind of Internet security service that enables users to connect to the internet as if they were on a private network. VPNs utilize encryption to provide a secure connection across vulnerable Internet infrastructure.
VPNs are one method for protecting business data and controlling user access to that data. The VPNs safeguard data as users interact with applications and websites through the Internet, and they can conceal specific resources. They are typically used for access control, although alternative identity and access management (IAM) systems can also assist with user access management.
VPN Encryption Enhances Network Security
Data is encrypted so that only authorized parties can view it. Anyone who manages to intercept it, whether a hacker, a fraudster, or another bad actor, is out of luck.
Imagine an employee is working from a coffeehouse, shared workspace, hotel, or airport and has access to your company's business-grade VPN. (Please keep in mind that business-or enterprise-grade VPNs are not the same as free VPN services.) The employee can create an encrypted connection between both the user's device and your VPN by using a VPN client installed on their preferred device and a public Wi-Fi network. This device, as well as any others that connect to your VPN, will establish encryption keys on both sides of the network connection. These keys will then encrypt and decrypt the information being exchanged.
The data of the person working at the coffeehouse is secured by the VPN after they create an encrypted VPN connection by utilizing the coffeehouse's Wi-Fi as a hotspot with a VPN client. Even if cybercriminals get access to the network of that coffeehouse, your employees and their data are secure within the VPN tunnel.
Closing Lines
Network security requires a VPN service from a trustworthy VPN provider. Our next-generation VPN enables enterprises to fully protect their assets in a dynamic, cost-effective, and scalable manner. A VPN solution enables you to connect private networks, devices, and servers quickly and simply to create a secure, virtualized, modern internet.
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