Unified 5G-IoT Framework with CAMARA Gateways and SDN Federation

2026-04-30

AI Summary

This study addresses the challenges of network fragmentation between public and private domains and poor interoperability among heterogeneous IoT devices in 5G–IoT convergence. To overcome these issues, the authors propose a unified architecture that integrates the CAMARA open API gateway with federated software-defined networking (SDN). The framework leverages standardized interfaces to expose network capabilities, enabling scalable cross-domain control and seamless interconnectivity. Notably, this work presents the first integration of CAMARA with federated SDN, successfully incorporating the KNX protocol and demonstrating remote control functionality. Validation in industrial and building automation scenarios confirms the approach’s effectiveness. Experimental results show a significant reduction in network fragmentation and enhanced interoperability, laying a foundation for secure, dynamic “networks-of-networks.”

Abstract

The convergence of 5G and IoT enables fully connected, intelligent environments, but it faces challenges from the fragmentation of public/private 5G networks and the heterogeneity of IoT networks. We propose a unified framework using CAMARA open gateways, which provide standardized, open APIs to expose network capabilities, reducing fragmentation and simplifying interoperability, supported by a federated SDN architecture that ensures scalable cross-domain control. We further demonstrate 5G-based remote control of KNX devices, extending industrial and building automation. These contributions lay the foundation for a secure, dynamic "network of networks" supporting next-generation applications.

Problem

• 5G-IoT convergence
• network fragmentation
• IoT heterogeneity
• interoperability
• network unification

Innovation

• CAMARA gateways
• federated SDN
• 5G-IoT convergence
• open APIs
• KNX automation