Edge Networking

2MEC Networks

As described in the previous chapters, there are three levels in the Edge. We will describe them in the next three chapters. We will look at how participatory networks fit into these different contexts.

2.1. The MEC level of 5G architecture

Let us start by describing the mobile network environment and then look in more detail at the three sets that make up a mobile network and look at Mobile Edge Computing or Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC). The reason for the change in MEC nomenclature is a broader vision that includes Wi-Fi rather than just 5G.

Figure 2.1 describes the three main parts of a mobile network. The radio forms the transmission from the terminal equipment to the antenna. This part was specified by the 3GPP in Phase 1 in June 2018, and products have been available since early 2020. The architectures of the Radio Access Network (RAN) and Core Network were specified in June 2020, and the products are available as of 2022. Finally, Phase 3, available in June 2022, specifies applications and add-ons to the three parts. The full 5G will, therefore, be available around 2023 for deployment around 2024.

In Figure 2.1, the MEC data center truly represents the 5G revolution by introducing virtualization of all necessary functions in infrastructure and application services. This is the architecture of the digital infrastructure of the 2020s.

Figure 2.1. The ...