5G • Core Network
N6 Interface
N6 Reference Point (Data Network)
Reference point between UPF and external Data Networks (Internet, IMS, corporate intranets).
Technical Explanation
The N6 interface is the exit point from the 5G Core user plane into external packet networks. It corresponds to the SGi interface of 4G LTE, supporting IPv4, IPv6, and Ethernet routing, NAT translation, firewalling, and carrier-grade IP interconnect.
Key Functions
- Connects 5GC User Plane Function to external Data Networks (Internet, IMS)
- Terminates user PDU sessions and routes native IP/Ethernet packets
- Performs Carrier Grade NAT (CGNAT) and perimeter firewalling
Specifications
3GPP TS 23.501
Interfaces
N6
Related 5G Concepts
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