Next Generation Networks Management

Description

Next Generation Networks Management (NGNM) is a holistic framework defined by 3GPP to address the operational and management challenges of evolving mobile networks. It is not a single protocol or interface but a collection of principles, requirements, and architectural guidelines that span across the entire network lifecycle, including fault, configuration, accounting, performance, and security (FCAPS) management. The framework is detailed in the 32-series of 3GPP specifications, with TS 32.102 providing the fundamental management architecture and principles. NGNM aims to create a unified management environment that can handle the complexity introduced by network functions virtualization (NFV), software-defined networking (SDN), network slicing, and the convergence of multiple access technologies.

Architecturally, NGNM is built upon a hierarchical and layered model. At its core is the concept of a Management System (MS) that interacts with managed elements (MEs) or network functions (NFs) through standardized interfaces. A key principle is the separation of the management plane from the user and control planes, allowing for centralized orchestration and policy-driven automation. The framework supports both legacy Telecommunications Management Network (TMN) concepts and modern approaches like model-driven management, where data models (e.g., YANG) define the structure and semantics of managed resources. This enables automated configuration, real-time performance monitoring, and closed-loop operations.

NGNM's role is to ensure that network operators can deploy, provision, monitor, and optimize services efficiently. It defines management services for specific domains like the 5G Core Network (5GC) and the Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN). For instance, it specifies how to manage network slices—a key 5G feature—including slice lifecycle management, performance assurance, and fault isolation. The framework also addresses the management of virtualized network functions (VNFs) in alignment with ETSI NFV standards, covering areas like VNF onboarding, instantiation, scaling, and termination. By providing these standardized blueprints, NGNM reduces integration costs, facilitates multi-vendor interoperability, and paves the way for fully autonomous networks.

Purpose & Motivation

NGNM was created to address the escalating complexity and operational costs associated with managing next-generation mobile networks. Prior to its formalization, network management was often vendor-specific, siloed, and required significant manual intervention. The transition from monolithic, hardware-based network elements to virtualized, software-based functions in 4G and 5G introduced new challenges in lifecycle management, dynamic scaling, and service assurance. NGNM provides a standardized framework to manage this new paradigm.

The historical context lies in the evolution from simple element management systems (EMS) to integrated network management systems (NMS) and ultimately to end-to-end service management. The limitations of previous approaches included proprietary interfaces, lack of automation capabilities, and inability to cope with the dynamic nature of cloud-native networks. NGNM solves these problems by defining a common language and architecture for management. It enables operators to automate routine tasks, implement policy-based control, and gain a unified view of network resources and services across different technologies and administrative domains.

Furthermore, NGNM is essential for realizing the business promises of 5G, such as network slicing and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). Without a robust, standardized management framework, creating, monitoring, and guaranteeing performance for individual network slices would be impractical. NGNM provides the necessary tools for slice-as-a-service operations, allowing operators to offer tailored services to enterprise customers with specific QoS requirements while maintaining efficient use of underlying physical resources.

Key Features

• Standardized management architecture and principles for multi-vendor interoperability
• Support for lifecycle management of virtualized network functions (VNFs/CNFs)
• Framework for end-to-end network slice management, including creation, monitoring, and assurance
• Model-driven management and data exposure for automation and AI/ML operations
• Integration with ETSI NFV MANO (Management and Orchestration) frameworks
• Comprehensive coverage of FCAPS (Fault, Configuration, Accounting, Performance, Security) management functions

Evolution Across Releases

Defining Specifications