What in the world is the 5G protocol stack? Communication technologies are often discussed in terms of constructs called protocol stacks, which outline the distinct mechanisms working together to accomplish communication. 5G is no different! The 5G protocol stack is a complex monster - difficult to understand even for seasoned network engineers. Taking a step back to examine the good old Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is an excellent way to further familiarize ourselves with protocol stacks as a concept and begin to understand the 5G protocol stack. Use this course to examine the OSI model and see how 5G fits into the picture. Then, use the OSI model to further appreciate some of the 5G protocol stack components and their purposes and operation. Upon completion of the course, you'll have a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the remarkable 5G protocol stack.

The 5G core network is where a lot of the magic involved with 5G takes place. This next-generation technology's core network delivers network services to connected devices in a way never implemented before. Understanding the operation of this core network and its components, services, and methods of deployment is an integral part of gaining a deeper understanding of 5G as a whole. Use this course to examine the 5G core network and what makes it so groundbreaking. Investigate the various modes of 5G deployment, diving deeper into the architecture itself and exploring the role that virtualization plays in all of this. Upon completion of this course, you'll have an appreciation of the revolutionary nature of the 5G core network in comparison to previous generation mobile communication core networks.

Understanding the 5G protocol stack is an essential step in gaining a deeper knowledge of the 5G infrastructure and operation. Take a closer look at the 5G protocol stacks using this course to gain a more intimate understanding of their operation. Examine the layers of the 5G protocol stacks, identify the role of the more traditional Internet Protocol (IP) within this framework, and explore the definition and operation of specific layers of the 5G protocol stacks. You'll have an understanding of the fundamentals of protocol stacks as well as the 5G core network after completing this course.

The capabilities and performance thresholds of 5G are dependent on how 5G networks are deployed. This process of rolling out 5G is unique for each 5G carrier across the world. Of course, some elements of rollout remain the same no matter where you are on the planet. But others differ, and these differences are not always technological. Rollout decisions can relate to demographics, local attitudes, as well as national interests. Use this course to explore the 5G strategies of several international mobile communication service providers. Examine their current 5G rollout status, their marketing assertions, and the initiatives they are involved in. Evaluate the substance of their claims and compare them to the current reality of 5G. When you're done, you'll be able to outline the 5G initiatives of several of the most influential telcos.

The advent of 5G has brought about a unique dimension of networking features unavailable in previous mobile network generations. This involves a hierarchical cellular architecture that has introduced the small cell, which brings with it a great deal of new and exciting wireless networking and connectivity features. Use this course to explore the world of small cell networking that 5G employs by taking a look at the evolution of cellular networks, examining why small cells are necessary to enable 5G's unprecedented performance, and analyzing various technical aspects of small cell networks. You'll also discover various applications and real-world scenarios where small cells can be leveraged and take a closer look at how small cell networks are managed and controlled. After completing this course, you'll have a foundational understanding of small cell networking and the fundamental innovations delivered by this technology.

While 5G opens up new opportunities, it also introduces new challenges. These include security and privacy concerns. Many of the characteristics of 5G can be leveraged by malicious attackers to compromise networks and the services they carry. However, with the appropriate deployment methodologies, virtually all of these vulnerabilities can be addressed to ensure a safe and secure network for all users. Use this course to investigate various aspects of security for 5G networks. Begin by exploring security and privacy in general before taking a closer look at the potential vulnerabilities inherent to 5G. Finally, examine the various built-in security mechanisms used to mitigate these threats, as well as the best practices and policies employed to ensure 5G remains safe for all to use. When you're done, you'll be able to provide solutions and workarounds for the primary security and privacy issues pertinent to 5G.

5G is subject to numerous rules and regulations enforced by various levels of government of all countries around the world. Regulations consist of laws that require the technology to adhere to specific thresholds and implementation methods, frequency allocation procedures, as well as local government by-laws and deployment rules. Navigating through the multitude of rules and regulations can be challenging at best and prohibitive for 5G networks at worst. As a result, it is necessary to employ a specific strategy to ensure that these rules and regulations are adhered to while at the same time enabling the smooth rollout of the technology. Use this course to examine the intricacies involved in dealing with 5G governmental policies, particular obstacles that both regulators and local governments may present in 5G deployment, and some guiding principles that will help in overcoming such difficulties.

Final Exam: 5G Practices will test your knowledge and application of the topics presented throughout the 5G Practices track of the Skillsoft Aspire 5G Technologies and Practices Journey.