Terminology » Difference between Backhaul vs Feeder Link in 5G NTN

Difference between Backhaul vs Feeder Link in 5G NTN

5g ntn 5g ntn satellite communication
  • It is the radio link between the satellite (or NTN platform) and the ground gateway station (or network control center-NCC).
  • It operates usually in higher frequency bands such as Ka-band or Q/V band.
  • It is not connected directly with the end users.
  • It acts as “trunk line” between space segment and terrestrial network on the Earth.
  • It carries aggregated user data, control information, and network signaling between the terrestrial core network and the satellite.
  • It is the connection between the satellite (or NTN platform) and the terrestrial base station (e.g., gNB or edge node) in 5G networks.
  • It helps to connect multiple base stations to the core network (CN) via the satellite when fiber or microwave backhaul is unavailable.

Regenerative 5G NTN architecture

Key differences

AspectFeeder LinkBackhaul Link
DefinitionLink between Satellite & ground gateway stationLink between satellite & terrestrial base station i.e. gNB in 5G
PurposeConnects satellite to the 5G core network (5GC)Extends 5G RAN connectivity to remote base stations
Frequency bandsHigher bands (Ka, Q, v) for large bandwidth requirementsLower bands (Ku, Ka) depending on coverage requirements
Function in networkActs as a trunk link for network control and aggregated trafficActs as a bridge to connect remote base stations to the core
Example Use caseSatellite gateway communicating with GEO satelliteRemote village gNB connected via LEO satellite

Summary: A Feeder Link is an intrinsic part of the primary NTN architecture. NTN Backhaul is a use case where NTN provides connectivity for a separate terrestrial network element.