How to ensure digital assurance for 5G networks

At the recent India Mobile Congress , Prime Minister Modi announced not only the expansion of 5G in the country but also a strategic move towards leadership in the emerging field of 6G technology.?

India is in a position where this is possible because when we began rolling out 5G, not only did we achieve the fastest roll-out but we also set up 400,000 5G base stations within just one year. This advancement propelled India from the 118th to the 43rd position in mobile broadband speed rankings.?

The anticipated expansion of the global 5G Services Market is expected to attain a value of USD 331.1 billion by 2027 , with a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.3% throughout the forecast period from 2022 to 2027. India is currently well-positioned to capitalize on its leadership in this emerging field, and businesses entering this sector have significant opportunities to ensure scalability and a substantial return on investment.

In this newsletter, we will briefly list out what are some essential software tests required for 5G networks and some best practices to ensure digital assurance for 5G networks.?

Software testing essentials for 5G networks?

With the growing integration of 5G technology into our daily routines, the imperative of ensuring its resilience and security has reached unprecedented levels. Digital assurance, an all-encompassing testing and verification approach, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the performance, stability, and overall quality of 5G networks.

Here are some testing types in the 5G network space that can help ensure digital assurance

1. Load Testing:

Identifies bottlenecks and capacity limitations that may arise during peak usage.

2. Aging Testing:

Uncovers potential issues related to sustained usage and identifies any degradation in performance over time.

3. Stress Testing:

Understands the resilience of the network and its ability to recover from failures caused by overwhelming demand or unexpected situations.

4. Latency Testing:

Ensures that the ultra-low latency promised by 5G technology is consistently achieved, contributing to a seamless and responsive user experience.

5. Penetration Testing:

Identifies vulnerabilities and enhances the overall security posture of the network.

6. Authentication and Authorization Testing:

Validates the network's ability to safeguard against unauthorized users and maintain secure access.

7. Encryption Testing:

Confirms that data is adequately protected during transit, maintaining confidentiality and integrity.

8. Device-to-Device Interoperability Testing:

Ensures seamless connectivity and interaction between various 5G-enabled devices.

9. Device-to-Network Interoperability Testing:

Assesses the network's ability to handle a variety of connected devices and maintains stable performance.

10. Network-to-Network Testing:

Confirms smooth communication between different 5G networks, enhancing overall connectivity.

11. Scalability Testing:

Assesses the network’s ability to handle increasing users and devices without compromising performance or stability.

12. Quality of Service (QoS) Testing:

Measures and ensures the network’s consistent and reliable service delivery. It assesses parameters such as throughput, packet loss, and jitter to maintain a high level of user experience.

Best practices to keep in mind

Ever wondered what's happening on the ground that ensures fast 5G experiences? Peel back the curtain on the world of 5G software testing to learn all about the best practices that ensure digital assurance in the 5G network domain.

a) Stay Updated on 3GPP Releases

Regularly monitor and adapt to the evolving (Third Generation Partnership Project) 3GPP releases to align testing strategies with the latest 5G standards.

b) Prioritize Non-Standalone (NSA) Mode Testing:

Given the established specifications for NSA mode, prioritize testing in this mode while keeping an eye on developments for Standalone (SA) mode.

c) Innovative Testing Approaches for SA Mode:

Develop innovative testing approaches that account for the absence of LTE coverage as an anchoring technology in SA mode.

d) Establish Harmonized Test Practices:

Collaborate with industry stakeholders to create and promote standardized testing frameworks, ensuring consistent results across diverse environments.

e) Adapt LTE Testing Expertise:

Leverage existing LTE testing expertise and provide training for testing teams to adapt their skills to the nuances of 5G technology.

f) Specialized Testing for Frequency Range and Bandwidth:

Develop comprehensive test scenarios that cover the entire frequency range and implement load testing with varying bandwidths.

g) User Experience-Focused Testing:

Prioritize methodologies that assess user experience, including latency testing, responsiveness, and Quality of Service (QoS) evaluations.

h) Integrate Robust Security Testing:

Incorporate thorough security testing practices, such as penetration testing and authentication validation, to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

The bottom line

India's transition from the rapid expansion of 5G to a deliberate emphasis on 6G technology underscores its dedicated pursuit of global technological leadership. The swift deployment of 5G infrastructure has not only propelled India up the mobile broadband speed rankings but has also solidified its standing as a pivotal player in the rapidly growing 5G services market.

However, amidst this technological evolution, businesses are confronted with the imperative need to implement robust digital assurance measures. As the nation gears up for a significant role in shaping the future of connectivity, ensuring the reliability, security, and seamless functionality of these advanced networks becomes paramount. These best practices outlined in this newsletter will equip businesses to navigate the complexities of the evolving technological landscape and position them for success in the era of 5G and 6G innovation. Stay tuned to gain more insights.?