How to Begin Implementing a 5G Beyond Networks in NS3

To begin executing a 5G Beyond (B5G) networks project in NS3, we can follow systematic approach that helps to replicate more advanced aspects such as ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB). Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

Steps to Begin Implementing a 5G Beyond Networks Projects in NS3

  1. Understand the Scope of 5G Beyond
  • Detect the B5G networks’ certain feature for simulating:
    • eMBB: Study high data rates and bandwidth.
    • URLLC: Highlight low latency and high reliability.
    • mMTC: Replicate massive IoT connectivity.
    • Advanced Features: Aspects like beamforming, network slicing, or AI-based resource allocation.
  1. Get Familiar with NS3 and 5G Modules
  • Install NS3:
    • Make sure that we have installed the new version of NS3.
    • For reference, we should utilise NS3 installation instructions.
  • Install 5G Modules:
    • While NS3 doesn’t have direct support for 5G, extensions such as 5G-LENA or custom libraries are obtainable.
    • We can set up 5G-LENA for 5G simulation abilities.
  • Learn Basics of NS3:
    • Focus on the fundamental aspects, components, and how to make nodes, links, and applications.
  1. Define the Simulation Objectives
  • Describe the project’s objectives like:
    • To examine the network slicing performance.
    • Experiment AI-based resource allocation.
    • Measuring the metrics like latency and reliability for URLLC.
  1. Design the Network Architecture
  • Components of a 5G Beyond Network:
    • gNB (Base Stations): Replicate more advanced base station functionalities.
    • UEs (User Equipment): Set up user devices including diverse traffic needs.
    • Core Network: Execute the abilities of network slicing or edge computing.
  • Topology: Select the arrangement in cellular, mesh topology.
  1. Configure Simulation Parameters

Step A: Radio Access Network (RAN)

  1. Configure gNB and UE:
    • For RAN configuration, we can apply LteHelper or NrHelper.
    • Configure metrics such as frequency, bandwidth, and duplexing mode (FDD/TDD).
  2. Enable Advanced Features:
    • Execute the MIMO, beamforming, or carrier aggregation to allow further aspects.

Step B: Core Network

  • Replicate the end-to-end connectivity to exploit Internet or EPC modules.
  • Integrate aspects such as network slicing or edge computing.

Step C: Traffic Models

  • Mimic diverse traffic models:
    • mMTC: IoT device connections.
    • eMBB: High throughput video streaming.
    • URLLC: Low latency industrial control.
  1. Write the Simulation Code

Example: Basic 5G Network Simulation in NS3

#include “ns3/core-module.h”

#include “ns3/network-module.h”

#include “ns3/internet-module.h”

#include “ns3/point-to-point-helper.h”

#include “ns3/5g-helper.h”

using namespace ns3;

int main() {

// Create Nodes

NodeContainer gNbNodes, ueNodes;

gNbNodes.Create(1); // One gNB

ueNodes.Create(10); // Ten UEs

// Install Internet Stack

InternetStackHelper internet;

internet.Install(ueNodes);

// Create 5G Helper

Ptr<NrHelper> nrHelper = CreateObject<NrHelper>();

// Configure gNB and UE devices

NetDeviceContainer gNbDevices = nrHelper->InstallGnb(gNbNodes);

NetDeviceContainer ueDevices = nrHelper->InstallUe(ueNodes);

// Assign IP Addresses

Ipv4AddressHelper ipv4;

ipv4.SetBase(“10.1.1.0”, “255.255.255.0”);

Ipv4InterfaceContainer ueInterfaces = ipv4.Assign(ueDevices);

// Attach UEs to gNB

nrHelper->AttachToClosestEnb(ueDevices, gNbDevices);

// Install Applications (e.g., Video Streaming)

uint16_t port = 8080;

UdpServerHelper server(port);

ApplicationContainer serverApps = server.Install(gNbNodes.Get(0));

serverApps.Start(Seconds(1.0));

serverApps.Stop(Seconds(10.0));

UdpClientHelper client(ueInterfaces.GetAddress(0), port);

client.SetAttribute(“MaxPackets”, UintegerValue(1000));

client.SetAttribute(“Interval”, TimeValue(Seconds(0.01)));

client.SetAttribute(“PacketSize”, UintegerValue(1024));

ApplicationContainer clientApps = client.Install(ueNodes.Get(0));

clientApps.Start(Seconds(2.0));

clientApps.Stop(Seconds(10.0));

// Run Simulation

Simulator::Run();

Simulator::Destroy();

return 0;

}

  1. Implement Advanced Features
  • MIMO and Beamforming:
    • Mimic spatial multiplexing and antenna set up.
  • Network Slicing:
    • Make distinct network slices for eMBB, URLLC, and mMTC to utilize virtualized networks.
  • Edge Computing:
    • Add MEC (Mobile Edge Computing) servers for edge computing.
  • AI/ML Algorithms:
    • It contains custom scheduling or resource allocation mechanisms.
  1. Simulate and Analyze Results
  • Metrics to Evaluate:
    • Measure the performance parameters such as throughput, latency, packet delivery ratio, and energy efficiency.
  • Visualization Tools:
    • For basic visualizations, we need to utilize NetAnim tool.
    • Transfer records within MATLAB or Python tools for analysis.
  1. Validate and Compare
  • Equate the performance outcomes with existing research or theoretical models.
  • Restate and improve the performance according to the outcomes.
  1. Document Your Work
  • The project should have comprehensive descriptions of configurations, code, and outcomes.
  • It offers graphs, tables, and a conversation on insights.

We gave stepwise instructions on 5G Beyond Networks Projects with NS3 environment that helps to implement and simulate this network also examine their outcomes. More in-depth information will be included upon request.