Network slicing and QoS in 5G systems and their impact on the MAC layer

5G is the new generation of cellular communication systems that will provide service not only for mobile users, but also for business unites. Different use-cases have been introduced along with 5G such as Enhanced Mobile Broadband Communication (eMBB), Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC) and Massive Machine Type of Communication (mMTC). Compared to well-established 4G communication systems based on LTE technologies, the requirements for these services are higher in terms of low latency 1ms (e.g. for cellular communication support of autonomous driving, remote surgery and industrial automation), high bit rate in values of Gbps. Despite the enhancements introduced for 5G NR (New Radio) with Release 15 by 3GPP, it is quite challenging and inefficient to meet all the service requirements within the same network. In order to fulfill the requirements set by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), it has been proposed Network Slicing as a possibility to set up and configure logical networks per each use case. Network Slicing (NS) is thought as a network virtualization technique that will make the network more flexible by optimising the utilisation of the infrastructure and the allocation of resources. This thesis will focus on analysing Network Slicing and Quality of Service (QoS) Framework from 3GPP Standards and not only. Then, Media Access Control (MAC) will be analyzed by pointing out the changes for Network Slicing and QoS deployments. Last, emulations will be carried out to show the impact of dedicated network slicing and QoS in the network performance.