ETSI Non-IP Networks releases first reports

“Finding new networking protocols more suitable to the 5G era was essential. These reports set the scene for standardisation of technology that meets the requirements of mission-critical systems such as industrial control, intelligent vehicles, sound reinforcement for live events, and remote medicine,” explained John Grant, Chair of ISG NIN.

The Report GR NIN 001, titled problem statement: networking with TCP/IP in the 2020s, describes the challenges of IP-based networking for fixed and mobile networks and ways in which new network protocols can result in improved performance and more efficient operation. Topics covered include efficient use of the cellular radio spectrum, naming and addressing (including addressing lifecycle), Quality of Service (QoS) and time-sensitive traffic, security, network management, efficient forwarding, and migration.

ETSI GR NIN 002, implementing Non-IP networking over 3GPP cellular access, describes and recommends approaches to test Non-IP Networking (NIN) using mobile radio access. This includes existing mechanisms specified by 3GPP for both LTE and 5G Radio Access Networks, as well as guidance on enabling a non-IP protocol stack directly atop the 3GPP PHY (physical) radio layer.

The Report suggests test scenarios appropriate to proof-of-concept testing for low-power IoT devices, for video and audio services, and for tactile feedback in applications such as remote surgery.

The third Report, ETSI GR NIN 003, illustrates how the Flexilink technology described in another ETSI Specification, ETSI GS NGP 013, can carry multiple services, using as examples RINA, TCP/IP, and digital audio and video, including example packet formats and requirements for the control plane protocols.