Multi-access edge computing (MEC) is capable of meeting the challenging requirements of next-generation networks, e.g., 6G, as a benefit of providing computing and caching capabilities in the close proximity of the users. However, the traditional MEC architecture relies on specialized hardware and its bespoke software functions are closely integrated with the hardware, hence it is too rigid for supporting the rapidly evolving scenarios in the face of the demanding requirements of 6G. As a remedy, we conceive the compelling concept of open-source cellular networking and intrinsically amalgamate it with MEC, which is defined by open-source software running on general-purpose hardware platforms. Specifically, an open-source MEC (OS-MEC) scheme is presented relying on a pair of core principles: the decoupling of the MEC functions and resources from each other with the aid of network function virtualization (NFV); as well as the reconfiguration of the disaggregated MEC functions and resources into customized edge instances. This philosophy allows operators to adaptively customize their users' networks. Then, we develop improved networking functions for OS-MEC decoupling and discuss both its key components as well as the process of OS-MEC reconfiguration. The typical use cases of the proposed OS-MEC scheme are characterized with the aid of a small-scale test network. Finally, we discuss some of the potential open-source-related technical challenges when facing 6G.
翻译:多接入边缘计算(MEC)能够满足下一代网络的挑战性要求,例如6G,作为在用户近距离提供计算和缓存能力的优势,6G提供计算和缓存能力,但传统的MEC结构依赖专门硬件,其简单软件功能与硬件密切结合,因此,面对6G的要求要求,它太僵硬,无法支持迅速变化的假设。 作为补救,我们设想开放源手机网络的令人信服的概念,并把它与MEC内在地合并起来,后者由通用硬件平台运行的开放源软件界定。具体地说,开放源MEC(OS-MEC)计划依赖于一对核心原则:在网络功能虚拟化(NFV)的帮助下,将MEC功能和资源相互脱钩,以及将分解的MEC功能和资源重新配置为定制的边缘实例。这一理念使操作者能够适应其用户网络的定制。然后,我们为OS-MEC脱钩的开放源软件开发了网络功能,并讨论了该系统的典型组合过程以及我们提出的与SOS系统有关的潜在结构的典型组合过程。