Exploiting 6G RAN and Core Network Information for Intelligent Edge-Cloud Service Orchestration

Abstract: The advent of 5G networks and the imminent evolution to 6G have driven significant changes in mobile network architecture, emphasizing edge-cloud integration, network softwarization, and Application Programmable Interface (API)-driven service delivery. To optimize resource allocation, service scaling, and service migration, mobile network operators must leverage both Radio Access Network (RAN) and Core Network (CN) information in orchestration frameworks. This paper introduces a novel cloud-native orchestration framework designed for 5G/6G networks, incorporating RAN and CN data to enable dynamic and efficient management of edge services. The framework includes three key orchestration strategies: (i) Horizontal Service Instance Autoscaler (HSIA), which adjusts service availability based on the number of active users derived from core network session data; (ii) Horizontal Service Resource Autoscaler (HSRA), which scales resources based on aggregated radio traffic from base stations; and (iii) Horizontal Service EdgeCloud Migration (HSECM), which dynamically migrates services to the cloud when edge resources are insufficient. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of these strategies in reducing energy consumption and minimizing users affected by service migration (UASM) while maintaining service quality. The findings highlight the transformative potential of mobile network-aware orchestration for enabling more sustainable and adaptive edge service deployments in next-generation networks.