Partner content: A look into why this release is so important and some of the big-ticket items you need to know about
5G Standalone (5GSA) reaches maturity with 3GPP’s Release 18, unlocking new business model opportunities and transforming connectivity with enhanced features and robust security. The epic journey of mobile communication has been a relentless pursuit of connecting people and devices with ever-increasing speed, reliability, and intelligence. From the rudimentary voice calls of 1G to the multimedia experiences of 4G, each generation has transformed how we engage with the world.
The advent of 5G promises not merely an incremental improvement but a paradigm shift – a platform for innovation that could redefine industries and everyday life. As we approach the pivotal 5G Release 18, we witness the culmination of years of development and the maturation of 5GSA networks.
This release is not just another step in the evolution of mobile networks; it is the point at which 5GSA reaches the maturity promised at its inception. It gives CSPs a suite of capabilities to make compelling offers for their subscribers and business customers.
Timeline for 3GPP Release 18 Adoption
Given the standard delays in commercialising 3GPP releases, Release 18 (5G Advanced) will follow a typical adoption curve, transitioning from early adopters to mainstream deployment and ultimately reaching market saturation.
The Journey to 5GSA Maturity
When 5G was first introduced, it came in two flavours: Non-Standalone (NSA) and Standalone (SA). The NSA deployment allowed operators to leverage existing 4G infrastructure, providing a quicker rollout but limiting the full capabilities of 5G. 5GSA, on the other hand, promised a complete overhaul—a new core network designed to support the advanced features and services envisioned for the 5G era.
According to the GSMA Mobility report, we are experiencing slow yet steady growth in new 5GSA networks, which have risen from approximately 50 at the end of 2023 to 63 in October 2024. This growth signifies the increasing adoption and maturation of 5GSA technology within the telecommunications industry.
Early deployments of 5GSA encountered significant challenges due to the revolutionary nature of the new technology. The industry demonstrated resilience in adapting to cloud-native architectures in its operations. These challenges included the Service-based Architecture (SBA) and the associated new Service-based Interfaces (SBI) that replaced traditional peer-to-peer interfaces, all while network functions were still being defined. Orchestration and network dynamicity were promised but proved difficult to implement.
Additionally, devices compatible with 5GSA were limited. However, over successive 3GPP releases, these hurdles were systematically addressed. Release 15 laid the groundwork, while Releases 16 and 17 built upon it, introducing enhancements and new functionalities. Release 18, however, signifies the advent of 5GSA.
Improved Offerings: Bridging Vision and Reality
Release 18 matures many features that can enable business opportunities for Communication Service Providers (CSPs) by bringing tangible benefits for end users and devices. However, some of the applications of this technology have not yet materialised or been monetised. Still, operators will be looking for the ROI on these significant improvements.
Here is a list of the enhanced capabilities upon which the improved offerings rely:
IoT at Scale with RedCap Phase 2
Enhanced support for massive machine-type communications (mMTC) enables the deployment of extensive networks of IoT devices, driving smart cities, agriculture, and industry 4.0 initiatives. RedCap Phase 2 promises a new generation of low-cost industrial devices that maximise their utilisation of the 5GSA network while minimising implementation costs.
Reference: 3GPP TS 22.261 – Service Requirements for the 5G System and https://www.3gpp.org/technologies/redcap
Why This Matters:
- For Subscribers – Smarter cities, efficient traffic systems, precision farming, and improved industrial automation contribute to a more interconnected world.
- For Businesses and CSPs – Lower-cost IoT deployments reduce CAPEX and OPEX, making massive IoT networks viable and creating new monetisation opportunities for CSPs.
- CSP Value Proposition – CSPs can turn RedCap into a revenue stream by offering industrial IoT connectivity-as-a-service, enabling enterprises to scale IoT deployments cost-effectively.
Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC)
URLLC is not confined to industrial settings. It can be utilised anywhere communication demands extremely low latency. The Release 18 URLLC enhancements benefit essential applications such as autonomous vehicles and industrial automation, offering the reliability and responsiveness these services necessitate.
Reference: 3GPP TS 22.104 – URLLC Requirements
Why This Matters:
- For Subscribers – Enhanced safety in autonomous vehicles and more accurate factory automation minimise errors and risks.
- For Businesses & CSPs – Enterprise 5G adoption accelerates, allowing CSPs to offer premium SLAs for mission-critical applications, driving high-margin revenue streams.
- CSP Value Proposition – CSPs can create premium 5G network slices with URLLC guarantees, unlocking new revenue from industries with high network demands.
Real-Time Interactive Experiences
By enhancing URLLC capabilities, 5GSA networks will provide unparalleled fluidity in real-time AR/VR applications for immersive gaming, virtual meetings, and remote assistance.
Reference: 3GPP TR 26.928 – XR in 5G
Why This Matters:
- For Subscribers – More immersive gaming on the go, realistic VR meetings, and real-time assistance for improved digital experiences.
- For Businesses and CSPs – CSPs can monetise real-time experiences by offering network slicing for gaming and XR applications, opening new revenue streams from premium services.Â
- CSP Value Proposition – Unlock new revenue with ultra-low-latency 5G. CSPs can monetise immersive gaming, virtual collaboration, and AR/VR services through premium network slicing and guaranteed QoS. Offer differentiated 5G tiers for consumers and enterprises.
Seamless Connectivity
The architecture has been enhanced with new capabilities for integration with households, facilitating seamless transitions between wireline and wireless networks, as well as networks employing CSP capabilities but connected via wireline. With the integration of non-terrestrial networks (NTN), users can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity even in remote or underserved areas, effectively bridging the digital divide.
Reference: 3GPP TR 38.821 – Solutions for NR to Support NTN
Why This Matters:
- For Subscribers – No more dropped connections between Wi-Fi and mobile networks; rural and remote areas finally get reliable 5G access.
- For Businesses and CSPs – 5G services expand beyond urban areas, unlocking new revenue in rural connectivity and enterprise satellite services.
- CSP Value Proposition – Monetise fixed-wireless bundles, remote connectivity solutions, and IoT applications, bringing 5G even to the hardest-to-reach areas.
Mature Private Networks
Annex I of the primary 5G architecture document is now dedicated to definitions of private networks, encompassing both standalone private networks (SNPN) and those integrated with the public network (PNI-NPN). Details on security integration and capabilities are now outlined and ready for implementation.
Reference: 3GPP TR 33.501 Annex I: Non-public networks
Why This Matters:
- For Subscribers – Enterprises benefit from secure, high-performance private 5G networks, ensuring faster, more reliable connectivity in industrial and enterprise settings.
- For Businesses and CSPs – CSPs and system integrators can monetise private 5G solutions catering to manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and government applications, all looking for enhanced and secure networks.Â
- CSP Value Proposition – Offer Private 5G-as-a-Service (P5GaaS) to manufacturers, hospitals, and logistics hubs, ensuring low-latency, ultra-reliable, and SLA-backed performance for mission-critical operations.
Improved Network Functions: The Backbone of Maturity
At the core of 5GSA’s evolution and maturity in Release 18 lies the enhanced Network Functions (NFs) that redefine network capabilities:
Multi-Edge Cloud (MEC), Network Exposure Function (NEF) Expansion and Application Function (AF) Enhancements
The AF integrates more comprehensively with network services, enabling third-party applications to interact seamlessly with the 5G core. This creates opportunities for services that require real-time network data, such as dynamic QoS adjustments based on application demands. Multi-Edge Cloud Services, managed as an AF within the network, can engage with the core via the NEF, providing a distributed computing environment that positions computing resources closer to the end-user.
The capabilities of the NEF are expanded to provide more detailed access to network functionalities and information. This enables service developers to create applications that more effectively harness powerful network features such as edge computing and network slicing.
This has the potential to deliver applications and services to consumers and industry that can harness the full capabilities of a 5GSA network, enabling the performance peaks they have been anticipating. It can also stimulate new business models for CSPs and content providers, such as a cloud gaming platform, which can utilise these new capabilities as a fundamental business enabler and differentiator, igniting excitement and anticipation for the future of 5GSA.
Reference: 3GPP TS 29.522 – NEF API Specification and 3GPP TS 23.501 – System Architecture for the 5G System
Why This Matters:
The enhancements in Release 18 for MEC, NEF, and AF unlock potential new CSP revenue models, enabling operators to offer enterprises on-demand network performance, edge computing, and real-time insights. By exposing network intelligence through APIs, CSPs can extend their capabilities beyond mere connectivity, evolving into platform providers that drive higher-margin services in gaming, enterprise IT, and AI automation.
Operators must strategically position MEC/NEF as enterprise automation solutions, rather than merely as connectivity features, to fully utilise these enhanced capabilities while learning from the past. They should bundle MECaaS with Private Networks to offer comprehensive managed services. Furthermore, they need to concentrate on the industry verticals that require low-latency edge computing the most, such as manufacturing and logistics.
AI in the Core Network: Policy Control Function (PCF) Evolution and Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) Advancements
The PCF now supports more sophisticated policy decisions, incorporating AI and machine learning algorithms to dynamically optimise resource allocation. This guarantees that network resources are utilised efficiently while offering end-users the best possible experience.
NWDAF enhancements facilitate real-time analytics throughout the network, offering insights that can stimulate automation and proactive maintenance. This will minimise downtime and enhance overall service reliability.
Incorporating the capabilities of both the Model Training Logical Function (MTLF) and the Analytical Logical Function (AnLF) to execute trained models creates a formidable combination for an NWDAF that can continuously learn from network behaviour and enhance it over time.
Reference: 3GPP TS 23.288 – NWDAF Services and 3GPP TS 23.503 – Policy and Charging Control Framework
Why This Matters:
The journey to autonomy begins now. These enhancements build on the previous foundational work and relatively unsuccessful attempts to integrate AI/ML into the network. The change lies in the scope and capabilities, with each NF now capable of operating dynamically and in real-time with AI/ML, as opposed to the predefined, non-real-time AI-based optimisations of the past. The critical aspect, then, is not only how the network can become more autonomous but also how the delivery of services can be managed more autonomously, including addressing any remediation or drops in SLA for any offering.
Improved Security
Security is non-negotiable in today’s world, marked by geopolitical instability. Release 18 introduces enhanced capabilities to meet the demand for robust security. It features improved authentication methods and encryption protocols to safeguard data integrity and privacy. Additionally, it provides secure access for wireline integrated networks with Release 18 capabilities, non-3GPP networks through the N3IWF, Non-5G-Capable over WLAN devices (N5CW), and Authenticable Non-3GPP devices (AUN3).
With the addition of OAuth and CAPIF support, 3GPP has also enhanced the security of the AF. This is a highly significant topic for Multi-Edge Cloud deployments, as it could pose a security threat to the core network. Additionally, there is a substantial enhancement to the security of private networks, including both SNPN and PNI-NPN.
Last but not least, encryption schemes that allow the implementation of quantum-resistant security have also been introduced.
Reference: 3GPP TS 33.501 – Security Architecture and Procedures, C1 and Annex I
Why this matters:
In an era of increasing cyber threats, including nation-state threats, regulatory pressures, and enterprise security demands, Release 18 bolsters 5G security with improved authentication, encryption, and quantum-resistant protocols. For subscribers, this translates to enhanced data protection and secure connectivity, particularly in sensitive industries like finance and healthcare. For CSPs, these advancements enable more robust private network security, stronger SLA-backed enterprise services, and compliance with evolving cybersecurity regulations. With OAuth, CAPIF, and advanced encryption, CSPs can provide trusted, high-assurance connectivity, rendering 5G SA networks more viable for high-security applications, including government and enterprise deployments.
Fixed Network Interworking – 5G Wireless Wireline Convergence 5WWC
The goal of providing a robust architecture for a converged communication framework continues. In Release 18, we observe the inclusion of the new 5G-RG (Residential Gateway), FN-RG (Fixed Network Residential Gateway), and the previously mentioned Authenticable Non-3GPP devices (AUN3).
These new architectural components and device classes enable improved home services and better integration with the associated security layers, potentially introducing new categories of devices and services to the consumer market.
Reference: 3GPP TS 33.501 – Security for wireline access to the 5G core network (Section 7B)
Why this matters:
The demand for seamless, always-on connectivity is increasing, and Release 18’s 5WWC advancements bridge the gap between wired and wireless networks. For subscribers, this translates to a unified, uninterrupted experience—whether on fibre, Wi-Fi, or 5G, their services remain consistent. This convergence creates new revenue opportunities for CSPs, enabling them to offer fully integrated broadband and mobile packages, reduce churn, and provide enterprise-grade, SLA-backed connectivity. With enhanced security and seamless network authentication, CSPs can enhance customer experience while optimising infrastructure investments, making 5G a universal access technology.
Service Assurance – The Foundation for Autonomous Networks & Monetisation
As the industry progresses towards Release 18, the network will become increasingly autonomous and adaptive, incorporating the added complexity of new offerings, cloud solutions, and dynamic elements. Service Assurance must be integrated from the outset rather than treated as an afterthought. The vision for self-optimising, AI-driven 5G and beyond relies on real-time visibility, automated fault detection, and continuous performance validation. Without this foundation, network automation cannot inspire trust, SLAs cannot be upheld, and monetisation opportunities will be overlooked.
Operators investing in network slicing, private 5G, and dynamic QoS services must recognise that what cannot be monitored cannot be monetised. The ability to guarantee service performance, optimise in real-time, and proactively resolve issues will distinguish the leaders from the laggards in the race for next-generation connectivity.
Anritsu understands that Service Assurance is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The networks of tomorrow will not only deliver connectivity; they will ensure quality, reliability, and value from the moment they are conceived. Are you contemplating how you will assure your network by 2030?
Embracing the Future with 3GPP Release 18
The continuing story of 5GSA is one of ambition, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. With Release 18, we witness the culmination of this particular journey—the moment at which the original promises of 5G can become a reality. By addressing previous shortcomings, networks become more intelligent, responsive, and capable.
For industries, this maturity signifies unlocking new business models, enhancing efficiency, and remaining competitive in a swiftly evolving market. For consumers, it translates into experiences that enrich daily life, rendering the extraordinary commonplace.
According to GSMA’s data, 5GSA has struggled to become the mainstream technology deployment for CSPs, with only 63 documented commercial implementations. However, nearly 200 CSPs are actively studying or investing in 5GSA, suggesting that many are waiting for a breakthrough application or business model to establish 5GSA as a winner.
At the very least, we can regard a 5GSA network update as a reliable stepping stone towards 6G, which, although not yet fully defined, represents an evolutionary advance of today’s 5GSA technology. 5G Advanced embodies the ideal bridge, merging maturity, business potential, and the technology necessary to ensure future resilience.
Operators must recognise that 5GSA cannot be overlooked. The challenges associated with transferring to the new architecture have been addressed, and the intricate issues have been resolved. Therefore, the question for operators is not whether they should transition to 5GSA/5G Advanced, but when.
With 5GSA maturing, CSPs must shift their focus from deploying infrastructure to effectively monetising it. Release 18 provides the tools, but operators must act strategically to convert them into revenue. The maturation of 5GSA is not an endpoint but a foundation—a platform upon which the next generation of innovations will be built. Together, we advance into a future where the limits of technology are again redefined, and the way we connect and communicate is transformed. For more articles/blogs from Anritsu Service Assurance see here: https://service-assurance.anritsu.eu/blog
About the author
Marco Gatti is the Head of 5G Product, Solutions, and Strategy at Anritsu and is responsible for the strategy and evolution of the Anritsu Service Assurance portfolio for 5G.
Marco has 20+ years of experience in the telecommunications industry, working for Compaq, HP, Ericsson, and Anritsu and delivering projects and presales worldwide for Tier 1 Service Providers. He began his career as a developer and solution architect and moved to enterprise architecture and business consultancy for OSS and BSS.
His recent focus has included CEM, Orchestration, Network slicing, Cloudification, and, of course, Service Assurance with related integrations using industry-standard guidelines. Marco enjoys leveraging IT and automation tooling to make operations easier while focusing on the business’s value.
Marco holds a B.Sc. in Economics and Management and an M.Sc. in Trade Marketing and Commercial Strategies from the Università degli Studi di Parma, Italy. He started his developer journey on a Philips MSX in 1989.