Physical and Virtual Resources Inventory Modeling for Efficient VNF Placement

Abstract

5G slice management supported by Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and cloud-native deployment is paramount for the rapid introduction of new 5G features like Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Massive Machine Type Communications (MMTC), and Ultra-reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC). The 5G and NFV transformation allow mobile operators to address further the needs of Internet of Things (IoT) and Edge Computing in a highly efficient manner. In this transformation, the efficient deployment and optimal placement of Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) is another critical enabler. It is crucial to efficiently perform physical and virtual resource allocation to keep End-to-End (E2E) delays and latencies minimal. In our research, while we aim to solve VNF efficient placement in a timely way, we must first address the information model and mapping of Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVI) physical and Virtualized Infrastructure Management (VIM) virtual resources. Based on the information model, derive the VNFs’ optimal placement to minimize the maximum distances across physical and virtual resources that are part of the VNF building blocks. In this paper we provide a methodology for real-time mapping of physical resources to the virtual components to create a uniform information catalogue that enables efficient placement of VNF components satisfying various service requirements.