The Linux Foundation has officially welcomed free5GC, the world’s first open source 5G core network software, into its ecosystem. Developed in 2019 by a team at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) in Taiwan, free5GC implements the 5G core network as defined in 3GPP Release 15 and beyond. Initially created for academic research, the software is now used globally in product testing and proof-of-concept trials, and its integration into the Linux Foundation aims to drive further innovation and collaboration in the telecommunications industry.
The transition of free5GC to the Linux Foundation provides the project with added governance and support, including the formation of a Technical Steering Committee to oversee development and integration. The software is expected to integrate further with other Linux Foundation projects like ONAP and Nephio, enabling more modular and flexible 5G core solutions. This move will help make 5G core networks more accessible and cost-effective, empowering organizations to experiment with advanced features like network slicing, automation, and service orchestration.
• free5GC developed by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU)
• First open source 5G core network software
• Integrated with Linux Foundation projects ONAP and Nephio
• Provides scalable, flexible solutions for 5G core networks
• Governance via Technical Steering Committee for ongoing development
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“As the founder of free5GC, I am excited about this project joining the Linux Foundation,” said Jyh-Cheng Chen, Dean, College of Computer Science at NYCU. “This collaboration will enhance open source 5G core network development and foster broader community engagement and innovation.”
