A gNB (gNodeB) is a node in a cellular network that provides connectivity between user equipment (UE) and the evolved packet core (EPC). A gNodeB is the functional equivalent of a base station in a traditional cellular network.
A gNodeB is responsible for radio communication with UEs in its coverage area, known as a cell. A gNodeB may be a physical entity, such as a tower, or it may be a virtual entity, such as a software defined radio (SDR).
A gNodeB has a number of functions, which include:
- Radio resource management
- Mobility management
- Connection management
- Security
- Quality of service (QoS)
- Charging
