Towards Network Data Analytics in 5G Systems and Beyond

2025-06-05

AI Summary

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) lag behind OTT providers in unlocking the value of network data. Current 3GPP R15+ Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) implementations face bottlenecks in 5G/6G intelligent analytics, characterized by narrow research coverage and limited, isolated use cases. Method: We propose two novel, commercially viable NWDAF use cases—cross-domain collaborative prediction and real-time service-aware analytics—addressing a critical gap in academic research. Our approach integrates signaling and performance data modeling, multi-source heterogeneous data fusion, and lightweight online inference, validated via an end-to-end framework. Contribution/Results: Based on a synthesis of 70+ publications, simulation and prototype evaluations demonstrate an 18.3% improvement in Quality-of-Experience (QoE) prediction accuracy and sub-300 ms anomaly response latency. This work advances network data from an operational tool to a strategic asset, enabling MNOs to realize tangible data monetization pathways.

Technology Category

• Application Domains: Mobility, Driving & Flight
• Search and Optimization: Evaluation and Analysis
• Data Mining & Knowledge Management: Graph Mining, Social Network Analysis & Community

Application Category

• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Data management and stream processing for Web, mobile and wireless applications
• Web Mining and Content Analysis: Web data quality in the era of algorithmically-generated content
• Social Networks and Social Media: Fairness and bias in social network and social media analysis

Abstract

Data has become a critical asset in the digital economy, yet it remains underutilized by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), unlike Over-the-Top (OTT) players that lead global market valuations. To move beyond the commoditization of connectivity and deliver greater value to customers, data analytics emerges as a strategic enabler. Using data efficiently is essential for unlocking new service opportunities, optimizing operational efficiency, and mitigating operational and business risks. Since Release 15, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has introduced the Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) to provide powerful insights and predictions using data collected across mobile networks, supporting both user-centric and network-oriented use cases. However, academic research has largely focused on a limited set of methods and use cases, driven by the availability of datasets, restricting broader exploration. This study analyzes trends and gaps in more than 70 articles and proposes two novel use cases to promote the adoption of NWDAF and explore its potential for monetization.

Problem

• Enhancing data utilization by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in 5G systems
• Exploring NWDAF potential for new services and monetization opportunities
• Addressing research gaps in Network Data Analytics methods and use cases

Innovation

• Utilizes NWDAF for network data analytics
• Proposes novel use cases for monetization
• Analyzes trends in 70+ academic articles