The UDM provides operators with convergent data management for 2G/3G/4G/5G networks. The UDM processes subscriber data efficiently, and simplifies networks. It is compatible with existing services and can also expand into new 5G services, maximizing operators’ ROI and ensuring service continuity during handovers.
The UDM allows existing networks to smoothly evolve to 5G. Cloud-based UDMs can be added to form a hybrid network with existing ATCA-based HSSs. On this hybrid network, subscriber data is smoothly migrated from the HSSs to the UDMs, while ensuring data completeness.
There are three evolution solutions which can currently be used:
1. Full migration
2. Hybrid network
3. UTA
Full migration: UDMs are deployed, and subscriber data in existing Huawei or non-Huawei HSSs are batch migrated to the UDMs. The UDMs provide 2G/3G/4G/5G services for subscribers. This solution allows all subscriber data from previous generations to be simultaneously migrated to the 5G network. However, it affects the existing network services, and requires massive upfront investment
Hybrid network: UDMs are added to form a hybrid network with existing HSSs in a ratio of 1:1 or 1:X, maximizing operators’ ROI. Operators can plan 2G/3G/4G to 5G upgrades, since the system can automatically migrate new 5G subscribers or batch migrate existing ones by subscriber number segment.
UTA: A UDM translation agent is ideal for early-stage 5GC. It improves user experience and quickly promotes 5G services while maintaining stable 2G/3G/4G services. Newly deployed UTAs are compatible with the third-party HLR/HSS to provide 5G services without migrating subscriber data or changing subscribers’ SIM/USIM cards or MSISDNs. In addition, they do not affect 4G services on existing devices and maintain a highly reliable network.
