Network Slicing

Network Slicing

  • Context:

  • On the occasion of TRAI Day 2026, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) held high-level deliberations on "Network slicing and Net neutrality."

  • The discussion focused on the need to balance innovation in advanced networks with consumer rights and equitable access

  • What is Network Slicing?

  • Network slicing is a technology that allows mobile operators to create multiple, unique "logical" (virtual) networks on top of a single, shared physical infrastructure.

  • How does it work?

  • Imagine a single road (the physical network) divided into different lanes (slices).

  • Each lane is dedicated to a specific type of traffic.

  • One slice can be optimised for high speed (e.g., for streaming 4K video).

  • Another slice can be optimised for low latency (e.g., for self-driving cars or remote surgery).

  • Technical Features:

  • 5G Core:

  • It is a key feature of the 5G network architecture.

  • While previous networks (like 4G) were rigid, 5G allows the network to be broken into two main components:

  • The Radio (towers)

  • The Core (control center).

  • Slicing happens in the Core.

  • Slice ID:

  • Each "slice" is identified by a specific code called the Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI).

  • This ensures that data travels through the correct virtual path.

  • Efficiency:

  • This technology allows telecom operators to move away from using separate hardware for different services.

  • Instead, they can run everything on a single, software-driven network, saving costs and improving efficiency.