Digital Twins: A Modeling and Deployment Approach for 5G Networks

The advent of Mobile Networks Digital Twins (MNDTs) heralds a paradigm shift in the management and optimization of mobile communication networks. MNDTs offer a virtual replica of the physical network, encompassing devices, communication links, environmental factors, and application behaviors. This paper introduces a comprehensive methodology for the automated creation and utilization of MNDTs, supported by a proposed architecture designed for implementation. Framed within the context of the B5GEMINI project, aimed at developing MNDTs tailored for 5G core environments and their evolution into 6G, this research focuses on leveraging MNDTs for advanced scenarios like cyber security and Industry 4.0. The methodology spans the entire lifecycle of an MNDT, starting from data acquisition and modeling to its utilization and establishing a bidirectional connection between physical and digital counterparts. By replicating diverse environments in laboratory settings and simulating multiple scenarios, MNDTs provide a cost-effective means to assess network performance, anticipate the impacts of network modifications, optimize network management strategies, and facilitate informed decision-making. This paper underscores the significance of MNDTs in addressing the complexities of modern mobile networks and outlines a roadmap for their effective deployment and integration into operational frameworks.