user plane function (5G) (UPF)

The User Plane Function (UPF) is a functional layer of the core network of 5G. Functionally, the UPF functional plane is responsible for routing and forwarding, inspection and QoS handling ofdata packets.

The User Plane Function (UPF) is a virtual network function( VNF) used to forward user traffic extremely fast. All user plane functions, such as deep packet inspection( DPI), firewalls, or network address translation( NAT), are maintained under the UPF function.

The User Plane Function in the core network of 5G receives the data of the subscriber devices via a Next-Generation NodeB(gNodeB), and the signal quality is measured via the Radio Resource Control Protocol( RRC).