In 5G networks, there are two important identifiers used for user identification and authentication: SUPI (Subscription Permanent Identifier) and SUCI (Subscription Concealed Identifier). Let’s take a closer look at each of these identifiers:
1-SUPI (Subscription Permanent Identifier):
-Purpose: The SUPI is a unique identifier associated with a subscriber’s permanent identity within a 5G network.
-Format: The SUPI is typically represented by the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) of the subscriber, which consists of the Mobile Country Code (MCC), Mobile Network Code (MNC), and the subscriber’s unique identifier within the network.
-Usage: The SUPI is used for subscriber-specific procedures, such as registration, mobility management, and service provisioning. It is associated with the subscriber’s service profile, subscription data, and network-specific information.
2-SUCI (Subscription Concealed Identifier):
-Purpose: The SUCI is designed to enhance privacy and security by concealing the subscriber’s permanent identity during certain operations within the 5G network.
-Format: The SUCI consists of two parts: the home network prefix and the unprotected part. The home network prefix identifies the subscriber’s home network, while the unprotected part represents the temporary identifier associated with the subscriber.
-Format: The SUCI consists of two parts: the home network prefix and the unprotected part. The home network prefix identifies the subscriber’s home network, while the unprotected part represents the temporary identifier associated with the subscriber.
The SUCI is derived from the SUPI but provides an additional layer of privacy and security. By using the SUCI instead of the SUPI in certain operations, the 5G network can protect the subscriber’s permanent identity while ensuring authentication and secure communication.