The 5G Standalone (SA) architecture represents a significant departure from previous cellular network designs, functioning independently of legacy 4G LTE networks. Unlike the Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture, which relies on LTE as an anchor for control functions, the 5G SA architecture is built on a new core and access structure. This enables a range of unique features, including ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), massive IoT, and network slicing.
NSA architecture uses 4G LTE for control functions, whereas 5G SA leverages a standalone core network, enabling the full capabilities of 5G.
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5G NR SA (Standalone) Architecture Overview (Ravi Shekhar Singh).pdf (273.3 KB)
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