ETSI’s Technical Committee on Core Network and Interoperability Testing (TC INT) develops specifications to test interoperability, conformance, performance and security. The methodology used is end-to-end (e2e) and includes verification of both the control and user plane. The test specifications are based on 3GPP specifications, enabling network operators to test their network for services for both fixed and mobile customers.
We produce test purposes, test descriptions, and TTCN-3 test cases to enable interoperability testing of the core network elements and covering the single-network, interconnect and roaming scenarios. Use Cases and requirements specified by ETSI for Automated and Autonomic Management and Control (self-management) of Networks and Services are tested via industry standards-anchored Proof of Concepts (PoC) events. Specifically, within 5G Network Slice Service Assurance space along with SDN, NFV, E2E Orchestration. As all those paradigms are targeting a common objective they can be considered as key enablers for 5G.
Developing test purposes, descriptions, and TTCN-3 test cases to verify interoperability, conformance, performance, and security of core network elements, covering single-network, interconnect, and roaming scenarios.
Tests 5G Network Slice Service Assurance, SDN, NFV, and E2E Orchestration use cases via industry standards-based Proof of Concept (PoC) events.
Expands test specifications on emergency services, IPv6-only services, end-to-end QoS/QoE testing frameworks, IP/ICMP conformance, Testbed as a Service (TaaS), federated testbeds, and Open Networking Platforms (ONPs). Validation of NGAP and NAS Conformance test specifications against real System Under Test will also be launched during the second half of 2026.
Develops reports and guidelines on energy-saving use cases, PoC requirements for telco data sharing, GANA instantiation, building confidence in autonomic functions, and AI-powered security management across multi-domain 5G networks.
TC INT defines and maintains test specifications to ensure core network interoperability, conformance, performance, and security. The Committee organises Proof of Concept (PoC) events to validate use cases and requirements, particularly for 5G networks, and provides guidance on emerging technologies such as SDN, NFV, and autonomic network management. Its work supports network operators, vendors, and research initiatives in achieving reliable and high-quality end-to-end network services.
Core Network and Interoperability Testing (INT); Use of open-source and open hardware projects/products in testbed federations for IMT-2020 and beyond [Technical Report ITU-T QSTR-USO (2025)]
Core Network and Interoperability Testing (INT); Evolution of the testbeds federations reference model [Recommendation ITU-T Q.4076 (2025)]
Core Network and Interoperability Testing (INT); Network Interoperability Test Description for emergency services over 5G; (3GPP™ Release 16); Part 1: Test Purposes
Core Network and Interoperability Testing (INT); Network Interoperability Test Description for emergency services over 5G; (3GPP™ Release 16); Part 2: Test Descriptions
For participation inquiries or further information, please contact: [email protected]
Learn more about our membership benefits
Technology
Ensuring the consistent quality and dependability of the technical standards and specifications we produce.
Press Release
2 June 2026
The specification ensures that emergency communications operate successfully despite growing complexity in the network environment.
