What is a GNB (gNodeB)?

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