ETSI has released new specifications to address the limitations of current TCP/IP technologies for 5G applications, emphasizing a clear separation between control and data planes. The GR NGP 010 report outlines architectural requirements for new transport technologies, while GR NGP 011 establishes a reference framework for end-to-end network slicing to ensure resource sharing and service assurance across multiple domains. Additionally, the GS NGP 013 specification introduces Flexilink, a deterministic packet forwarding mechanism that uses label-based headers for efficient routing and supports ultra-low latency services for critical media. These standards aim to provide an upgrade path compatible with both IPv4 and IPv6, delivering the efficiency and responsiveness required for next-generation mobile traffic.
Keywords: Flexilink, deterministic packet forwarding, network slicing, control plane separation, SDN principles