Dynamic UPF placement and chaining reconfiguration in 5G networks

Network function virtualization (NFV) and multi-access edge computing (MEC) have become two crucial pillars in developing 5G beyond networks. NFV promises cost-saving fast revenue generation through dynamic instantiation the scaling of virtual network functions (VNFs) according to time-varying service demands. Additionally, MEC provides considerable reductions response time backhaul traffic since server applications can be deployed close users. Nevertheless, placement chaining VNFs at is challenging due numerous aspects attendant trade-offs. This paper addresses problem user plane reconfiguration (UPCR) a environment cope with mobility while guaranteeing cost acceptable quality (QoS). The formalized as multi-objective integer linear programming model minimize multiple components involved UPCR procedure. We propose heuristic algorithm called priority cautious (DPC-UPCR) reduce solution complexity. we devise scheduler mechanism based on optimal stopping theory determine best instantaneous values latency violations pre-established QoS threshold. Our detailed simulation results evidence efficiency proposed approaches. Specifically, DPC-UPCR near-optimal solutions, within 15% optimum worst case, significantly shorter times than mathematical model. Moreover, scheduling method outperforms baseline solutions regarding number events levels.