5G radio access network (RAN) architecture is designed to support the high data rates, low latency, and high reliability required for 5G applications. The key components of the 5G RAN architecture are the 5G radio unit (RU), the 5G baseband unit (BBU), and the 5G central unit (CU). The RU is responsible for transceiver functionality and supports the connection of multiple antennas to the BBU. The BBU is responsible for baseband signal processing and provides the interface between the RU and the CU. The CU is responsible for mobility management, radio resource management, and coordination of the RAN.
The 5G RAN architecture is a next-generation network architecture that enables the deployment of 5G networks. The 5G RAN architecture is designed to support the ultra-high data rates and low latency required for 5G applications and services. The 5G RAN architecture includes a new radio access network (RAN) architecture, a new core network architecture, and a new transport network architecture.
What is RAN architecture?
Today, RAN architecture divides the user plane and the control plane into separate elements. The RAN controller can exchange one set of user data messages through a software-defined networking switch and a second set through a control-based interface. This allows for a more efficient use of resources and improved flexibility in the RAN.
The 5G network uses a flat IP concept so that different RANs (Radio Access Networks) can use the same single Nanocore for communication. RANs supported by the 5G architecture are GSM, GPRS/EDGE, UMTS, LTE, LTE-Advanced, WiMAX, WiFi, CDMA2000, EV-DO, CDMA One, and IS-95.
What is the difference between 4G and 5G RAN architecture
Latency is the time it takes for a packet of data to travel from one point to another. The lower the latency, the faster the data can travel. This is why 5G is so important, because it promises to have a latency of under 5 milliseconds. This is a huge improvement over 4G, which has a latency of anywhere from 60 milliseconds to 98 milliseconds. In addition, with lower latency comes advancements in other areas, such as faster download speeds.
RAN and core are both critical components of 5G networks because gNBs (5G base stations) terminate the encryption of user data, except when it is encrypted externally and is beyond the control of an operator’s 5G network. As a result of this, gNBs have full access to all data to and from devices in cleartext. This is a major security concern for 5G networks and operators need to be aware of this potential issue when deploying their networks.
How does 5G RAN work?
A 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) uses 5G radio FDD frequencies to provide wireless connectivity to devices. This enables the delivery of new, incredible applications that will create new revenue streams for CSPs and new connectivity opportunities for subscribers. 5G is going to change the way we live and work, and the possibilities are endless. Thanks to the high speeds and low latency of 5G, we will be able to do things that we never thought possible.
Open RAN offers higher interoperability through open hardware, software, and interfaces for cellular wireless networks. This allows for more flexibility and lower costs for operators when deploying 5G networks.
What is the difference between 5G NR and 5G RAN?
5G RAN is responsible for all functions related to radio technology. The gNB nodes support NR devices via the NR user plane and control plane protocols.
The 5G networking architecture consists of three different network types that will work together in the future, but the three tiers of radio signals have different characteristics:
1) Low Band 5G: Low band spectrum 5G is best understood as a blanket layer for nationwide coverage. It will be used to connect most 5G devices and will be complementary to the other two network types.
2) Mid Band 5G: Mid band 5G will provide faster speeds than low band 5G, but will not have the same range. It will be used to connect 5G devices in dense urban areas.
3) High Band 5G: High band 5G, also known as mmWave, will have the shortest range but the fastest speeds. It will be used to connect 5G devices in very dense urban areas.
What are the three pillars of 5G
The three fundamental pillars of 5G; eMBB (Enhanced Mobile Broadband), MMTC (Massive Machine Type Communications) and URLLC (Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications) clearly emphasises the importance of Massive IoT and Critical IoT into the overall 5G mix. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are actually quite different. Critical IoT refers to applications that require ultra-low latency and high reliability, such as self-driving cars and remote surgery. Massive IoT, on the other hand, refers to applications that require high scalability and support for a large number of devices, such as smart cities and industrial IoT.
5G offers a much higher potential top speed than 4G – 20Gbps compared to 4G’s 1Gbps. However, 5G’s shorter range will likely mean that it will initially be used more for short-range applications such as mobile phone networks in cities, rather than for long-range applications such as 4G’s use for rural areas.
What is the latency in 5G RAN?
The latency requirements for various 5G services are summarised in the table below. 5G networks need to provide an E2E delay of 1 ms to 100 ms for latency-critical services.
In a 5G RAN architecture, the BBU functionality is split into two functional units: a distributed unit (DU), responsible for real time L1 and L2 scheduling functions, and a centralized unit (CU) responsible for non-real time, higher L2 and L3. The DU is typically located at the base station, while the CU is located at a central location.
What is RAN platform
The Radio Access Network (RAN) is a critical component of mobile networks, connecting users (e.g. mobile phones or enterprises) to the network over radio waves. It also provides a bridge to access key applications on the web. RAN technology is typically provided as a hardware and software integrated platform.
Portfolio Radio access processing platforms:
In Ericsson Radio System, the software is running on Radio, Transport and RAN Compute hardware platforms. RAN Processors are used for the processing of data and control plane signaling. Radio Processors are used for the control and supervision of radio equipment. Basebands are used for the interface to the radio equipment.
Is open RAN key to the 5G future?
The Open RAN initiative is a key driver for 5G adoption and rollout. With its high levels of opportunity and engagement, Open RAN is poised to play a major role in the 5G ecosystem. Its ability to connect disparate networks and enable flexibility and innovation will be critical to the success of 5G.
The different types of RANs do reflect advancements in networking technology. GSM RAN (GRAN), GSM EDGE RAN (GERAN), UMTS RAN (UTRAN), and Evolved UTRAN (E-UTRAN) all have their own benefits that can be seen in their application.
Final Words
The 5G RAN architecture is a new, more efficient way to build and operate radio networks. It is based on a cloud-native, software-defined approach that enables virtualization of network functions and flexibility in how those functions are deployed.
From a business perspective, 5G RAN architecture is critical for enabling new services and use cases, such as connected cars and the Industrial Internet of Things. 5G will also enable mobile operators to offer service packages with higher bandwidth and lower latency, which will be increasingly important as we enter the era of digital transformation.
