A REVIEW OF SDN AND NFV INTEGRATION IN 5G CORE NETWORK: BENEFITS, CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

The integration of Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies in the 5G Core (5GC) represents a crucial advancement in the telecommunications sector. These innovations offer significant improvements in flexibility, scalability, and operational efficiency. Through virtualization, an effective separation between hardware and software is achieved, which maximizes performance and minimizes dependence on specialized equipment. Despite their advantages, the development of these technologies has mainly been run by large corporations, creating challenges such as high acquisition costs and technological dependence. However, open-source initiatives that allow greater access and encourage innovation and collaboration within the sector have emerged. This article aims to conduct a literature review on the implementation of SDN and NFV in the 5GC and an evaluation of open-source technical solutions for its implementation. The combination of SDN and NFV optimizes available resources and enables the creation of advanced services that benefit various economic sectors. Ultimately, integrating these technologies in 5GC becomes a fundamental step towards a more efficient and adaptable future for telecommunications.