Dynamic optimal path reconfiguration for each service traffic according to changes in each subscriber network load.

It will be possible to provide seamless service between 5G and WiFi even when used on the move.

The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) announced that it has successfully developed a core technology that enables unrestricted mobile services between 5G and WiFi even when users are on the move, through research with domestic small and medium-sized enterprises such as KT, Lanbird Technology, and Snet ICT.

The existing network system operated 3G networks, 4G LTE networks, and wired networks separately, and users had to decide whether to use WiFi or 4G LTE.

Accordingly, when watching a video using data on a smartphone and then boarding the subway, the video would be interrupted or delayed because the handover to the Wi-Fi inside the train did not work properly.

Currently, 3GPP has defined and conceptually presented a set of technologies known as Access Traffic Steering, Switching, and Splitting (ATSS) to provide mobility across diverse access network conditions and select the optimal access network when generating service traffic. Standardization work on this technology will begin in earnest in June and is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2020.

Although the technology for providing mobility between 5G and WiFi has only been conceptually presented by the international standardization organization 3GPP, ETRI has succeeded in developing the original technology. This is a strategy to advance toward international standardization through preemptive technology development.

The technology developed by the research team can distribute traffic by finding the optimal access network for each service based on conditions such as subscriber (access) network traffic load and quality of service (QoS) in situations where 5G and WiFi are connected simultaneously.

Additionally, it was explained that the optimal path for each service traffic can be dynamically reconfigured according to changes in the load of each subscriber network, thereby providing optimal quality to users and dynamically controlling the load of the subscriber network.

With this technology in place, users will no longer need to choose between 5G and WiFi. The 5G network itself will automatically detect and select WiFi or 5G subscriber usage, enabling seamless service as users move.

Park No-ik, a senior researcher at ETRI's Network Research Center, stated, "This technology is essential for the 5G era. By considering various service scenarios and developing the technology ahead of standardization, we have secured an advantageous position to lead future technologies."

Additionally, KT Executive Director Lee Jong-sik said, "This has great technological significance in that it allows for continuous use of services regardless of the various wired and wireless networks, such as 5G, WiFi, and wired. We plan to strive to ensure that services can always be used with optimal quality regardless of the wired or wireless connection method on the commercial 5G network in the future."