fore it is ready for integration. This is usually done with the help of an independent test framework that simulates the external interfaces. The focus of this testing is to check for the workability of the software. Platform testing: This is more relevant in a 5G backdrop, as almost all of the components in 5G are cloud-based or virtualized. Hence, the cloud platform needs to be vetted for suitability with the network function software installed to be able to check its compatibility. This also provides scope for finetuning the configuration of the platform according to the needs of the software being hosted on it. Also, platform failure scenarios can be tested to observe the outcome and build a design to minimize its impact. Network testing: This is to test the design and stability of the transport network and the networking used within the platform. Each of the VLANs associated should be tested for its reachability. Also, external peering, such as a Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) neighbor relationship, should be checked for correctness. Each of the routers and switches that would be in the traffic path should be tested for reachability and stability. Additional care should be taken to address security, and meaningful access control lists and firewalls should be tested. Testing end-to-end latency: It is important to understand the latency in any given network SO that further steps can be taken accordingly. For example, if there is an edge user plane and Integration planning in a multivendor environment a centralized control plane, and the latency between the two should be such that the round- trip time for a packet is greater than the timer set at the sending and receiving side, then there would be retransmissions. As the control signaling is based on TCP, it is all the more important to ensure the network is stable and has acceptable latency. Otherwise, there can be a situation of a storm of TCP retransmissions clogging up the network. Planning of timers' consistency: Timers are critical during the setting up of