Unified Data Management (UDM)

Unified Data Management

Alepo’s Unified Data Management (5G UDM) is a 3GPP Release 17 compliant 5GC network function (NF). This intelligent, next-generation NF is a critical node in authenticating and authorizing user access to the network and roaming access using subscription data, and in providing smooth and seamless session continuity. Additionally, Alepo’s UDM platform supports integration with third-party UDR over the standard Nudr interface.

5g 5gc 5g core udm

What is UDM in 5G (Unified Data Management)?

The 5G Unified Data Management platform is similar to Home Subscriber Server (HSS) in LTE; it is cloud-native and specifically designed for 5G. The UDM in 5G is responsible for generating credentials used during authentication, authorizing access based on user subscription, which it retrieves from the User Data Repository (UDR) and sends to the other network functions. 5G UDM+HSS together authenticates and authorizes users across 4G, 5G NSA, and 5G SA networks.

What is the function of UDM in 5G networks?

UDM supports major functionalities in the 5G networks. It generates authentication credentials used during the authentication process and authorizes network access and roaming based on user subscriptions. The 5G Unified Data Management platform is responsible for subscription management and handles privacy protection by SUCI to SUPI conversion. The UDM also handles inter- and intra-RAT mobility.

Alepo 5G Core Network Function: UDM

Smooth Service and Access Authorization

Alepo’s 5GC UDM platform assists operators in meeting dynamic customer demands by enabling subscriber segmentation with personalized services and targeted offers. It performs service and access authorization for authenticated subscribers, ensuring that customers only have access to their subscribed services. UDM in telecom authorizes subscribers based on the access network, RAT, DNN, slices, ODB, and more.

Additionally, Alepo’s 5G Unified Data Management network function supports the following UE registration operations:

Helps 5G-AKA authentication process by generating authentication credentials
Supports SUCI de-concealing using profile A, profile B, and the null scheme method
Stores and manages context for UEs serving NFs such as a serving-AMF context for UE registration or serving-SMF context for UE’s PDU session

Seamless Connectivity on the Move

Alepo’s 5G Unified Data Management platform enables service and session continuity for ongoing sessions by managing SMF/DNN contexts. It ensures an uninterrupted service experience for subscribers when they travel or switch networks. Key features include:

Supports inter-RAT and intra-RAT mobility
Maintains service and session continuity
Ensure high Quality of Experience (QoE) for subscribers

Concurrent Support for 4G and 5G

As part of the converged core, Alepo 5G UDM + Alepo HSS works with a common UDR, enabling operators to upgrade to 5G without service disruption and transition to a fully virtualized service-based environment. The converged offerings empower mobile operators to support legacy 4G/LTE services and swiftly launch 5G with minimal configuration changes. The dual-radio connectivity allows operators to expand coverage and services gradually. Features include:

Unified Data Management (UDM)