5G • RAN
F1AP
F1 Application Protocol
Signaling protocol standardizing messaging between gNB-CU and gNB-DU across the F1-C interface.
Technical Explanation
Specified in 3GPP TS 38.473, F1AP defines elementary procedures for CU-DU coordination: F1 Setup, Reset, Cell Activation, UE Context Setup / Modification / Release, System Information Modification, and Paging. It allows multi-vendor interoperability between centralized CU servers and distributed DU units.
Key Functions
- Defines signaling procedures between gNB-CU and gNB-DU
- Manages distributed cell configuration and dynamic UE bearer context setup
- Enables multi-vendor open disaggregated radio access network deployments
Specifications
3GPP TS 38.473
Interfaces
F1
Related 5G Concepts
Want to memorize 5G concepts like this one?
Study it with SuperMemo SM-2 spaced repetition flashcards.