SST (slice/service type)

In the context of network slicing and service-based architectures, SST stands for Slice/Service Type. SST is a parameter used to identify and classify different types of network slices or services within a telecommunications network. It plays a crucial role in enabling the provisioning and management of specific network resources and functionalities tailored to the requirements of different services or slices.

Here is a detailed explanation of SST and its significance:

1. Network Slicing: Network slicing is a concept that enables the creation of multiple virtual networks or slices within a single physical network infrastructure. Each network slice is designed to cater to specific service requirements, providing customized resources, functionalities, and quality of service (QoS) levels. Network slicing allows different services to coexist on the same infrastructure, enabling efficient resource allocation, isolation, and management.
2. Service-Based Architecture: Service-based architecture is an architectural framework that focuses on modularizing network functionalities into individual services. Each service provides specific capabilities and functions required to deliver a particular service or support a specific network slice. Service-based architectures promote flexibility, scalability, and the ability to compose services to meet varying service demands.
3. Slice/Service Type (SST): SST is a parameter used to categorize and differentiate various network slices or services within the network infrastructure. It serves as an identifier to associate specific resources, policies, and configurations with a particular slice or service. SST allows network operators to distinguish between different services or slices and apply appropriate management and control mechanisms.
4. Resource Allocation: The SST parameter helps in resource allocation and provisioning. Network elements, such as routers, switches, and servers, can associate resources based on the SST value. This enables the allocation of specific network capacities, bandwidth, processing power, and storage to match the requirements of the given service or slice.
5. Quality of Service (QoS) Differentiation: SST is also used to differentiate the QoS levels provided to different services or slices. Based on the SST value, network elements can apply QoS policies and prioritization mechanisms to ensure that each service or slice receives the required level of performance, latency, reliability, and other QoS parameters.
6. Service Orchestration and Management: SST plays a crucial role in service orchestration and management. Service orchestration involves coordinating the resources and functions required to fulfill the service requirements. The SST parameter helps orchestration systems identify and manage the specific resources, configurations, and policies associated with a particular service or slice.
7. End-to-End Service Delivery: SST enables end-to-end service delivery by ensuring that the correct resources and functionalities are assigned and configured throughout the service path. The SST value is propagated and considered by various network elements involved in the service delivery chain to guarantee consistent treatment and appropriate handling of the service or slice.

By leveraging the SST parameter, network operators can tailor their network infrastructure to meet the diverse requirements of different services or network slices. It allows for efficient resource utilization, flexible provisioning, QoS differentiation, and streamlined management of the services provided over the network. SST is a key component in enabling network slicing and service-based architectures, offering improved service delivery and enhanced network flexibility.