FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970 (39 OF 1970) & THE PATENT RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
“METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ESTABLISHING CONNECTION BETWEEN USER EQUIPMENT AND
NETWORK”
We, Jio Platforms Limited, an Indian National, of Office - 101, Saffron, Nr. Centre Point, Panchwati 5 Rasta, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad - 380006, Gujarat, India.
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ESTABLISHING CONNECTION BETWEEN USER EQUIPMENT AND NETWORK
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of wireless communication systems. More particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method and a system for establishing a connection between a user equipment (UE) and a network.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The following description of the related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section is used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of the prior art.
[0003] Wireless communication technology has rapidly evolved over the past few decades, with each generation bringing significant improvements and advancements. The first generation of wireless communication technology was based on analog technology and offered only voice services. However, with the advent of the second-generation (2G) technology, digital communication and data services became possible, and text messaging was introduced. 3G technology marked the introduction of high-speed internet access, mobile video calling, and location-based services. The fourth generation (4G) technology revolutionized wireless communication with faster data speeds, better network coverage, and improved security. Currently, the fifth generation (5G) technology is being deployed, promising even faster data speeds, low latency, and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously. With each generation, wireless communication

technology has become more advanced, sophisticated, and capable of delivering more services to its users.
[0004] The roll out of 5G network has provided a boon in the network speed all over the world and has resulted in an immensely rich experience for the users. However, it is impossible to change from an earlier network to the new high-speed network overnight. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to provide solutions for smooth transition from an earlier network to new fast speed network wherever possible. Additionally, it is important to provide seamless integration and interaction by the network to a user equipment (UE). It is possible that the UE may be using an older/earlier version of the network or a new high-speed network depending on the specification of the UE.
[0005] Therefore, the network should be able to identify and function seamlessly in both the conditions. In general, Tracking Area Code (TAC) is a unique identifier used to differentiate different tracking areas within a Location Area (LA). In Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks, TAC is a 32-bit value (i.e., 4 octets). Since LTE uses 4 octets for TAC information, it doesn't have any leading zeros as placeholders. In 5G networks, the TAC is used in a similar way to LTE but is expanded to accommodate the larger addressing requirements of 5G. In 5G networks, TAC is a 48- bit value (i.e., 6 octets). This means that New Radio (NR) (5G) TAC information contains 2 extra octets compared to the LTE. Therefore, there is a difference in the length of the TAC information carried in signaling messages depending on whether the UE is connecting to an LTE (4 octets) or a 5G (6 octets) network. To ensure consistency in message formats, leading 0s are pretended as place holders in call-flow of Service Message (SM) create/update request.
[0006] Thus, there exists an imperative need in the art to maintain consistency in message formats when establishing connection between a UE and a network, which the present disclosure aims to address.

SUMMARY
[0007] This section is provided to introduce certain aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify the key features or the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0008] An aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a method for establishing a connection between a user device and a network. The method comprising: receiving, by a transceiver unit at a Network Function (NF) from the user device, a signalling message. The signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the user device, and a tracking area code (TAC) information of the user device. The method further comprises identifying, by an identification unit at the NF, a set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the RAT information. The method further comprises modifying, by a modification unit at the NF, the TAC information of the user device by eliminating the leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information. The method further comprises establishing, by the transceiver unit at the NF, the connection of the user device with the network based on the modified TAC information.
[0009] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the RAT type information associated with the user device is one of: an Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) RAT type information, and a New Radio (NR) RAT type information.
[0010] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the modifying, by the modification unit at the NF, the TAC information of the user device by eliminating the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information, is based on a request received by the NF from another NF. The request is related to one of an initiation and an update of a session management (SM) context.

[0011] In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the SM context is related to one or more of managing data sessions, managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, and managing quality of service.
[0012] Another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a system for establishing a connection between a user device and a network. The system comprising: a transceiver unit configured to receive, at a Network Function (NF), from a user device, a signalling message. The signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the user device, and a tracking Area Code (TAC) information of the user device. The system further comprises an identification unit connected to at least the transceiver unit. The identification unit is configured to identify, at the NF, a set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the RAT information. Furthermore, the system comprises a modification unit connected to at least the identification unit. The modification unit is configured to modify, at the NF, the TAC information of the user device by eliminating the leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information. Next, the transceiver unit is configured to establish, at the NF, a connection with the user device based on the modified TAC information.
[0013] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for establishing a connection between a user device and a network, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system, causes: a transceiver unit to receive, at a Network Function (NF), from a user device, a signalling message, wherein the signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the user device, and a tracking Area Code (TAC) information of the user device; an identification unit to identify, at the NF, a set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the RAT information; a modification unit to modify, at the NF, the TAC information of the user device by eliminating the leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC

information; a storage unit to store, at the NF, the modified TAC information; and the transceiver unit to establish, at the NF, a connection with the user device based on the stored modified TAC information.
OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0014] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment disclosed herein satisfies are listed herein below.
[0015] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system and a method for establishing a connection between a user device and a network.
[0016] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that simplifies network management and reduces the chances of errors caused by inconsistent data handling.
[0017] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that provides a more reliable and consistent user experience ensuring smoother interaction.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Also, the embodiments shown in the figures are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure, but the possible variants of the method and system according to the disclosure are illustrated herein to highlight the advantages of the disclosure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such

drawings includes disclosure of electrical components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of 5th
5 generation core (5GC) network architecture.
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. 10
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a system for establishing a connection between a user device and a network, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.
15 [0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a method flow diagram for establishing the connection
between the user device and the network, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram for establishing the connection
20 between the user device and the network, in accordance with exemplary
implementations of the present disclosure.
[0024] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure. 25
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various
specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of
30 embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that
embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific
7

details. Several features described hereafter may each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above. 5
[0026] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not
intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather,
the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in
the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment.
10 It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and
arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.
[0027] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough
15 understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. 20
[0028] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process
which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure
diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as
a sequential process, many of the operations may be performed in parallel or
25 concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process
is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure.
[0029] The word “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean
30 serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the
subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any
8

aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is not
necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or
designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques
known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms
5 “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed
description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive—in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as an open transition word—without precluding any additional or other elements.
10 [0030] As used herein, a “processing unit” or “processor” or “operating processor”
includes one or more processors, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. A processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a Digital
15 Signal Processing (DSP) core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific
Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input/output processing, and/or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor or
20 processing unit is a hardware processor.
[0031] As used herein, “a user equipment”, “a user device”, “a smart-user-device”, “a smart-device”, “an electronic device”, “a mobile device”, “a handheld device”, “a wireless communication device”, “a mobile communication device”, “a
25 communication device” may be any electrical, electronic and/or computing device
or equipment, capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. The user equipment/device may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, smart phone, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, wearable device or any other computing device which is capable
30 of implementing the features of the present disclosure. Also, the user device may
9

contain at least one input means configured to receive an input from unit(s) which are required to implement the features of the present disclosure.
[0032] As used herein, “storage unit” or “memory unit” refers to a machine or
5 computer-readable medium including any mechanism for storing information in a
form readable by a computer or similar machine. For example, a computer-readable
medium includes read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”),
magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices or other
types of machine-accessible storage media. The storage unit stores at least the data
10 that may be required by one or more units of the system to perform their respective
functions.
[0033] As used herein “interface” or “user interface refers to a shared boundary
across which two or more separate components of a system exchange information
15 or data. The interface may also be referred to a set of rules or protocols that define
communication or interaction of one or more modules or one or more units with each other, which also includes the methods, functions, or procedures that may be called.
20 [0034] All modules, units, components used herein, unless explicitly excluded
herein, may be software modules or hardware processors, the processors being a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller,
25 Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Array
circuits (FPGA), any other type of integrated circuits, etc.
[0035] As used herein the transceiver unit include at least one receiver and at least
one transmitter configured respectively for receiving and transmitting data, signals,
30 information or a combination thereof between units/components within the system
and/or connected with the system.
10

[0036] The present disclosure aims to overcome the problems discussed in the
background section and other existing problems in this field of technology by
eliminating the plurality of leading zeros when user equipment (UE) latches with
5 RAT Type EUTRA.
[0037] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
10 [0038] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of 5th
generation core (5GC) network architecture, in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the 5GC network architecture [100] includes a user equipment (UE) [102], a radio access network (RAN) [104], an access and mobility management function (AMF) [106], a Session
15 Management Function (SMF) [108], a Service Communication Proxy (SCP) [110],
an Authentication Server Function (AUSF) [112], a Network Slice Specific Authentication and Authorization Function (NSSAAF) [114], a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) [116], a Network Exposure Function (NEF) [118], a Network Repository Function (NRF) [120], a Policy Control Function (PCF) [122],
20 a Unified Data Management (UDM) [124], an application function (AF) [126], a
User Plane Function (UPF) [128], a data network (DN) [130], wherein all the components are assumed to be connected to each other in a manner as obvious to the person skilled in the art for implementing features of the present disclosure.
25 [0039] Radio Access Network (RAN) [104] is the part of a mobile
telecommunications system that connects user equipment (UE) [102] to the core network (CN) and provides access to different types of networks (e.g., 5G network). It consists of radio base stations and the radio access technologies that enable wireless communication.
30
11

[0040] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) [106] is a 5G core network function responsible for managing access and mobility aspects, such as UE registration, connection, and reachability. It also handles mobility management procedures like handovers and paging. 5
[0041] Session Management Function (SMF) [108] is a 5G core network function responsible for managing session-related aspects, such as establishing, modifying, and releasing sessions. It coordinates with the User Plane Function (UPF) for data forwarding and handles IP address allocation and QoS enforcement.
10
[0042] Service Communication Proxy (SCP) [110] is a network function in the 5G core network that facilitates communication between other network functions by providing a secure and efficient messaging service. It acts as a mediator for service-based interfaces.
15
[0043] Authentication Server Function (AUSF) [112] is a network function in the 5G core responsible for authenticating UEs during registration and providing security services. It generates and verifies authentication vectors and tokens.
20 [0044] Network Slice Specific Authentication and Authorization Function
(NSSAAF) [114] is a network function that provides authentication and authorization services specific to network slices. It ensures that UEs can access only the slices for which they are authorized.
25 [0045] Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) [116] is a network function
responsible for selecting the appropriate network slice for a UE based on factors such as subscription, requested services, and network policies.
[0046] Network Exposure Function (NEF) [118] is a network function that exposes
30 capabilities and services of the 5G network to external applications, enabling
integration with third-party services and applications.
12

[0047] Network Repository Function (NRF) [120] is a network function that acts as a central repository for information about available network functions and services. It facilitates the discovery and dynamic registration of network functions. 5
[0048] Policy Control Function (PCF) [122] is a network function responsible for policy control decisions, such as QoS, charging, and access control, based on subscriber information and network policies.
10 [0049] Unified Data Management (UDM) [124] is a network function that
centralizes the management of subscriber data, including authentication, authorization, and subscription information.
[0050] Application Function (AF) [126] is a network function that represents
15 external applications interfacing with the 5G core network to access network
capabilities and services.
[0051] User Plane Function (UPF) [128] is a network function responsible for
handling user data traffic, including packet routing, forwarding, and QoS
20 enforcement.
[0052] Data Network (DN) [130] refers to a network that provides data services to user equipment (UE) in a telecommunications system. The data services may include but are not limited to Internet services, private data network related services.
25
[0053] The 5GC network architecture also comprises a plurality of interfaces for connecting the network functions with a network entity for performing the network functions. The NSSF [116] is connected with the network entity via the interface denoted as (Nnssf) interface in the figure. The NEF [118] is connected with the
30 network entity via the interface denoted as (Nnef) interface in the figure. The NRF
[120] is connected with the network entity via the interface denoted as (Nnrf)
13

interface in the figure. The PCF [122] is connected with the network entity via the
interface denoted as (Npcf) interface in the figure. The UDM [124] is connected
with the network entity via the interface denoted as (Nudm) interface in the figure.
The AF [126] is connected with the network entity via the interface denoted as (Naf)
5 interface in the figure. The NSSAAF [114] is connected with the network entity via
the interface denoted as (Nnssaaf) interface in the figure. The AUSF [112] is connected with the network entity via the interface denoted as (Nausf) interface in the figure. The AMF [106] is connected with the network entity via the interface denoted as (Namf) interface in the figure. The SMF [108] is connected with the
10 network entity via the interface denoted as (Nsmf) interface in the figure. The SMF
[108] is connected with the UPF [128] via the interface denoted as (N4) interface in the figure. The UPF [128] is connected with the RAN [104] via the interface denoted as (N3) interface in the figure. The UPF [128] is connected with the DN [130] via the interface denoted as (N6) interface in the figure. The RAN [104] is
15 connected with the AMF [106] via the interface denoted as (N2). The AMF [106] is
connected with the RAN [104] via the interface denoted as (N1). The UPF [128] is connected with other UPF [128] via the interface denoted as (N9). The interfaces such as Nnssf, Nnef, Nnrf, Npcf, Nudm, Naf, Nnssaaf, Nausf, Namf, Nsmf, N9, N6, N4, N3, N2, and N1 can be referred to as a communication channel between
20 one or more functions or modules for enabling exchange of data or information
between such functions or modules, and network entities.
[0054] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device [200] upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in
25 accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In an
implementation, the computing device [200] may also implement a method for establishing a connection between a user device and a network utilising the system. In another implementation, the computing device [200] itself implements the method for establishing a connection between the user device and the network using
30 one or more units configured within the computing device [200], wherein said one
14

or more units are capable of implementing the features as disclosed in the present disclosure.
[0055] The computing device [200] may include a bus [202] or other
5 communication mechanism for communicating information, and a hardware
processor [204] coupled with bus [202] for processing information. The hardware
processor [204] may be, for example, a general-purpose microprocessor. The
computing device [200] may also include a main memory [206], such as a random-
access memory (RAM), or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus [202]
10 for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor [204]. The
main memory [206] also may be used for storing temporary variables or other
intermediate information during execution of the instructions to be executed by the
processor [204]. Such instructions, when stored in non-transitory storage media
accessible to the processor [204], render the computing device [200] into a special-
15 purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the
instructions. The computing device [200] further includes a read only memory
(ROM) [208] or other static storage device coupled to the bus [202] for storing static
information and instructions for the processor [204].
20 [0056] A storage device [210], such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or solid-state
drive is provided and coupled to the bus [202] for storing information and instructions. The computing device [200] may be coupled via the bus [202] to a display [212], such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), Liquid crystal Display (LCD), Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, Organic LED (OLED) display, etc. for
25 displaying information to a computer user. An input device [214], including
alphanumeric and other keys, touch screen input means, etc. may be coupled to the bus [202] for communicating information and command selections to the processor [204]. Another type of user input device may be a cursor controller [216], such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction
30 information and command selections to the processor [204], and for controlling
cursor movement on the display [212]. This input device typically has two degrees
15

of freedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), that allow the device to specify positions in a plane.
[0057] The computing device [200] may implement the techniques described
5 herein using customized hard-wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware
and/or program logic which in combination with the computing device [200] causes or programs the computing device [200] to be a special-purpose machine. According to one implementation, the techniques herein are performed by the computing device [200] in response to the processor [204] executing one or more
10 sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory [206]. Such
instructions may be read into the main memory [206] from another storage medium, such as the storage device [210]. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the main memory [206] causes the processor [204] to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative implementations of the present
15 disclosure, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with
software instructions.
[0058] The computing device [200] also may include a communication interface
[218] coupled to the bus [202]. The communication interface [218] provides a two-
20 way data communication coupling to a network link [220] that is connected to a
local network [222]. For example, the communication interface [218] may be an
integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, cable modem, satellite modem, or
a modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of
telephone line. As another example, the communication interface [218] may be a
25 local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a
compatible LAN. Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such
implementation, the communication interface [218] sends and receives electrical,
electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing
various types of information.
30
16

[0059] The computing device [200] can send messages and receive data, including
program code, through the network(s), the network link [220] and the
communication interface [218]. In the Internet example, a server [230] might
transmit a requested code for an application program through the Internet [228], the
5 ISP [226], the local network [222], the host [224] and the communication interface
[218]. The received code may be executed by the processor [204] as it is received, and/or stored in the storage device [210], or other non-volatile storage for later execution.
10 [0060] Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary block diagram of a system [300] for
establishing the connection between the user device and the network, is shown, in accordance with the exemplary implementations of the present disclosure. The system [300] comprises at least one transceiver unit [301], at least one identification unit [303], at least one modification unit [304], and at least one storage unit [305].
15 Also, all of the components/ units of the system [300] are assumed to be connected
to each other unless otherwise indicated below. As shown in FIG. 3, all units shown within the system [300] should also be assumed to be connected to each other. Also, in FIG. 3, only a few units are shown, however, the system [300] may comprise multiple such units or the system [300] may comprise any such numbers of said
20 units, as required to implement the features of the present disclosure. Further, in an
implementation, the system [300] may be present in a user device/ user equipment [102] to implement the features of the present disclosure. The system [300] may be a part of the user device [102]/ or may be independent of but in communication with the user device [102] (may also referred herein as a UE). In another
25 implementation, the system [300] may reside in a server or a network entity. In yet
another implementation, the system [300] may reside partly in the server/ network entity and partly in the user device. In one implementation, the user equipment [102] is same as the user equipment [102].
17

[0061] The system [300] is configured for establishing a connection between the user device [102] and the network, with the help of the interconnection between the components/units of the system [300].
5 [0062] In order to establish the connection between the user device [102] and the
network, the transceiver unit [301] is configured to receive, at a Network Function
(NF), from the user device [102], a signalling message. The signalling message
comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the
user device [102], and a tracking Area Code (TAC) information of the user device
10 [102]. In one implementation, the NF is the PCF [122]. In some examples, the user
device [102] may include a smartphone, PC, tablet, smartwatch, and the like.
[0063] In particular, the signalling message may include Radio Access Technology
(RAT) type and Tracking Area Code (TAC). Generally, RAT type indicates the
15 specific type of radio technology that the user device [102] is using to connect to
the network.
[0064] In general, Tracking Area Code (TAC) refers to a code that helps the
network identify the specific geographical area in which the user device [102] is
20 located. The TAC is important for routing and managing the user's connection
within the correct region of the network.
[0065] The RAT type information associated with the user device [102] is one of:
an Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) RAT type information, and
25 a New Radio (NR) RAT type information.
[0066] In particular, Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) RAT type
is associated with 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks, which are used for
mobile broadband communications. For such networks, the TAC information is sent
30 in 4 octets (32 bits). In particular, New Radio (NR) RAT type is associated with 5G
18

networks, which offer enhanced data rates, lower latency, and support. For such networks, the TAC information is sent in 6 octets (48 bits).
[0067] In an example, a device A (e.g., 4G smartphone) operates on a 4G LTE
5 network. Thus, its RAT type corresponds to EUTRA RAT. When device A attempts
to connect to the network, it sends a signalling message including EUTRA RAT
type. A device B (5G Smartphone) operates on a 5G NR network. In another
example, a device B (e.g., a 5G smartphone) attempts to connect to the network, it
sends a signalling message including NR RAT type. Upon receiving the signalling
10 message from either of the devices, the Network Function (NF) is configured to
identify the RAT type of the device from the signalling message.
[0068] Upon receiving the signalling message from either of the devices, the
Network Function (NF) identifies the RAT type from the signalling message. This
15 identification is important because it determines how the network handles
subsequent steps, particularly in terms of processing Tracking Area Code (TAC) and other connection parameters.
[0069] Further, the identification unit [303] connected to at least the transceiver
20 unit [301] is configured to identify, at the NF, a set of leading zeroes in the TAC
information based on the RAT information.
[0070] In general, it is important to identify these leading zeroes since they often serve as padding or placeholders that are not necessary for certain network
25 functions, especially when processing TAC data in the situation of different Radio
Access Technology (RAT) types. Also, the purpose of eliminating these leading zeroes is to update the TAC so that it reflects only the necessary digits. The leading zeroes are often added as padding or formatting, but they do not contribute to the actual value or function of the TAC.
30
19

[0071] In an example, consider a user device AB operating on a 4G LTE network,
which uses the Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) RAT type. The
TAC information received from this device AB may be 00012345, where the first
three digits are leading zeroes. These zeroes may have been added to confirm that
5 the TAC meets a specific length or format requirement. The identification unit [303]
is configured to identify such leading zeroes and determine their position within the TAC.
[0072] In another example, consider a user device CD operating on a 5G NR
10 network. The TAC for the user device CD may be 00123456, with two leading
zeroes. The identification unit [303] is configured to identify that the first two digits
are leading zeroes that can be eliminated in the following steps. The identification
of these leading zeroes is important because it allows the NF to modify the TAC,
optimizing how the TAC is used in establishing the connection between the user
15 device and the network.
[0073] Further, the modification unit [304] connected to at least the identification
unit [303] is configured to modify, at the NF, the TAC information of the user device
[102] by eliminating the leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC
20 information. In particular, the modification unit [304] is configured to fetch the TAC
information that has been processed by the identification unit [303], and then removes the leading zeroes identified in the previous step.
[0074] In one example, the modification unit [304] at the NF, modifies the TAC
25 information of the user device [102] by eliminating the set of leading zeroes in the
TAC information, based on a request received by the NF from another NF. In one
implementation, the request is related to one of an initiation and an update of a
session management (SM) context. The modification unit [304] at the Network
Function (NF), modifies the TAC information by removing the leading zeroes. In
30 one example, this modification may be done in response to a request from another
NF.
20

[0075] In one implementation, the SM context is related to one or more of managing data sessions, managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, and managing quality of service. 5
[0076] The term “managing data sessions” herein may represent establishing and
maintaining the connection between the user device [102] and the network,
confirming that data traffic is properly routed and handled. The term “managing IP
addresses” herein may refer to assigning and managing IP addresses for the user
10 device [102]. This is important for routing data to and from the user device [102],
as IP addresses uniquely identify devices on the network. The term “managing quality of service (QoS)” herein represents that the data session meets specific performance criteria, such as required bandwidth, latency, and reliability.
15 [0077] Further, the storage unit [305] connected to at least the modification unit
[304] is configured to store, at the NF, the modified TAC information. In an implementation, the storage unit [305] within the Network Function (NF) is configured to save the TAC information after it has been modified by the modification unit [304]. For example, if the original TAC information was
20 00012345 and the modification unit converted it to 12345 by removing the leading
zeroes, the storage unit [305] is then configured to save 12345 as updated TAC information. Further, the transceiver unit [301] is configured to establish, at the NF, the connection with the user device [102] based on the stored modified TAC information.
25
[0078] In an implementation, once the TAC information has been modified by removing the leading zeroes and the updated TAC information is saved by the storage unit [305], the transceiver unit [301] is configured to retrieve this updated TAC. The transceiver unit [301] is then configured to use the updated TAC
30 information to set up the connection with the user device [102]. This involves
21

arranging the necessary network parameters (such as IP address, access credentials, etc.) to confirm that the user device [102] is properly connected to the network.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary method flow diagram [400] for
5 establishing the connection between the user device and the network, in accordance
with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown. In an
implementation, the method [400] is performed by the system [300]. Further, in an
implementation, the system [300] may be present in a server device to implement
the features of the present disclosure. Also, as shown in Figure 4, the method [400]
10 starts at step [402].
[0080] At step [404], the method [400] comprises, receiving, by the transceiver unit
[301] at the Network Function (NF) from the user device [102], the signalling
message. The signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type
15 information associated with the user device [102], and a tracking area code (TAC)
information of the user device [102].
[0081] At step [406], the method [400] comprises, identifying, by the identification
unit [303] at the NF, the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the
20 RAT information.
[0082] At step [408], the method [400] comprises, modifying, by the modification unit [304] at the NF, the TAC information of the user device [102] by eliminating the leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information. 25
[0083] In another example, the SM context is related to one or more of managing data sessions, managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, and managing quality of service.
22

[0084] At step [410], the method [400] comprises, establishing, by the transceiver unit [301] at the NF, the connection of the user device [102] with the network based on the modified TAC information.
5 [0085] In an implementation, once the TAC information has been modified by
removing the leading zeroes and the updated TAC information is saved by the
storage unit [305], the transceiver unit [301] is configured to retrieve this updated
TAC. The transceiver unit [301] then uses this updated TAC information to set up
the connection with the user device [102]. This involves arranging the necessary
10 network parameters (such as IP address, access credentials) to confirm that the user
device [102] is properly connected to the network.
[0086] Thereafter, the method [400] terminates at step [412].
15 [0087] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flowchart [500] for establishing the
connection between the user device [102] and the network, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.
[0088] The flowchart [500] depicts the process of provisioning and managing a tail
20 list in a Policy Control Function (PCF) [503]. The PCF [503] is a component that
is responsible for making policy decisions in the network, such as determining how resources may be allocated or what quality of service (QoS) may be applied.
[0089] The term “tail list” herein refers to a list of TACs that are grouped together
25 for specific network management tasks, such as applying policies, managing
connections, or routing traffic. The tail list may sometimes include leading zeros, which are digits at the beginning of the TAC that may or may not be necessary for processing within the network.
23

[0090] At step [502], The flowchart [500] begins with a User/Service Management Platform (UI/SMP) [501]. The SMP [501] is responsible for initiating the setup of the tail list in a Policy Control Function (PCF) [503] of the network.
5 [0091] At step [504], the flowchart [500] includes making a decision on how the
tail list should be provisioned in the Policy Control Function (PCF) [503]. Specifically, it must be decided whether the Tracking Area Codes (TACs) in the tail list should include leading zeros or not.
10 [0092] At step [506], if the decision is to provision the tail list with leading zeros,
the flowchart [500] continues with storing the list in the PCF [503].
[0093] At step [508], after the tail list has been provisioned, the Session
Management Function (SMF) sends a request related to the tail list. However, in
15 this case, the TACs in the SMF's request do not include the leading zeros.
[0094] At step [510], due to mismatch between the TAC format in the tail list
(which includes leading zeros) and the SMF's request (which excludes them), the
rule related to the tail list is not installed in the PCF [503]. This means that the
20 network does not apply the intended rules or policies for the tail list.
[0095] At step [512], if the decision is to provision the tail list without leading zeros, at step [514], the flowchart [500] includes storing this list in the PCF [503] without any leading zeros. 25
[0096] At step [516], the SMF sends a request regarding the tail list. It is noted that the TACs in the request do not include leading zeros.
[0097] At step [518], since the TACs in the tail list and the SMF’s request both
30 match (neither include leading zeros), the rule related to the tail list is successfully
24

installed in the PCF [503]. This allows the network to apply the appropriate rules or policies for the tail list.
[0098] The present disclosure further discloses a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for establishing a connection between the user device [102] and the network, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of the system [300], causes: the transceiver unit [301] to receive, at the Network Function (NF), from the user device [102], the signalling message, wherein the signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the user device [102], and a tracking Area Code (TAC) information of the user device [102]; the identification unit [303] to identify, at the NF, the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the RAT information; the modification unit [304] to modify, at the NF, the TAC information of the user device [102] by eliminating the leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information; the storage unit [305] to store, at the NF, the modified TAC information; and the transceiver unit [301] to establish, at the NF, the connection with the user device [102] based on the stored modified TAC information.
[0099] As is evident from the above, the present disclosure provides a technically advanced solution for establishing the connection between the user device and the network. The present solution ensures consistent handling of Tracking Area Code (TAC) information. By treating leading zeros as placeholders, the system maintains a uniform format for TAC data across various Radio Access Technology (RAT) types, simplifying network management and reducing errors associated with inconsistent data. This approach also updates processing by making it easier for network elements to recognize and handle TAC information consistently, as they are programmed to expect a fixed-length TAC. Additionally, the present invention improves user experience by preventing service disruptions or incorrect behavior that can occur due to unresolved sessions.

[0100] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the disclosed implementations, it will be appreciated that many implementations can be made and that many changes can be made to the implementations without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. These and other changes in the implementations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, whereby it is to be understood that the foregoing descriptive matter to be implemented is illustrative and non-limiting.
[0101] Further, in accordance with the present disclosure, it is to be acknowledged that the functionality described for the various components/units can be implemented interchangeably. While specific embodiments may disclose a particular functionality of these units for clarity, it is recognized that various configurations and combinations thereof are within the scope of the disclosure. The functionality of specific units as disclosed in the disclosure should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Consequently, alternative arrangements and substitutions of units, provided they achieve the intended functionality described herein, are considered to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

WE CLAIM:
1. A method [400] for establishing a connection between a user device [102]
and a network, the method [400] comprising:
- receiving, by a transceiver unit [301] at a Network Function (NF) from the user device [102], a signalling message, wherein the signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the user device [102], and a tracking area code (TAC) information of the user device [102];
- identifying, by an identification unit [303] at the NF, a set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the RAT type information;
- modifying, by a modification unit [304] at the NF, the TAC information of the user device [102] by eliminating leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC type information; and
- establishing, by the transceiver unit [301] at the NF, the connection of the user device [102] with the network based on the modified TAC information.

2. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the RAT type information associated with the user device [102] is one of: an Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) RAT type information, and a New Radio (NR) RAT type information.
3. The method [400] as claimed in claim 1, wherein the modifying, by the modification unit [304] at the NF, the TAC information of the user device [102] by eliminating the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information, is based on a request received by the NF from another NF, wherein the request is related to one of an initiation and an update of a session management (SM) context.

4. The method [400] as claimed in claim 3, wherein the SM context is related to one or more of managing data sessions, managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, and managing quality of service.
5. A system [300] for establishing a connection between a user device [102] and a network, the system [300] comprising:
o a transceiver unit [301] configured to receive, at a Network Function (NF), from the user device [102], a signalling message, wherein the signalling message comprises a radio access technology (RAT) type information associated with the user device [102], and a tracking Area Code (TAC) information of the user device [102];
o an identification unit [303] connected to at least the transceiver unit [301], the identification unit [303] configured to identify, at the NF, a set of leading zeroes in the TAC information based on the RAT type information;
o a modification unit [304] connected to at least the identification unit [303], the modification unit [304] configured to modify, at the NF, the TAC information of the user device [102] by eliminating leading zeroes from the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information; and
o the transceiver unit [301] configured to establish, at the NF, a connection with the user device [102] based on the modified TAC information.
6. The system [300] as claimed in claim 5, wherein the RAT type information
associated with the user device [102] is one of: an Evolved UMTS
Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA) RAT type information, and a New
Radio (NR) RAT type information.

7. The system [300] as claimed in claim 5, wherein the modification unit [304] at the NF modifies the TAC information of the user device [102] by eliminating the set of leading zeroes in the TAC information, based on a request received by the NF from another NF, wherein the request is related to one of an initiation and an update of a session management (SM) context.
8. The system [300] as claimed in claim 7, wherein the SM context is related to one or more of managing data sessions, managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, managing quality of service.