Open Virtualized RAN (Open vRAN)

Open vRAN Brings Network Elasticity, Flexibility, and Dynamic RAN Optimization

A flexible Radio Access Network (RAN) is the cornerstone of next-generation mobile network infrastructure. The evolved RAN architecture, designed with cloud-native virtualization techniques, enables the RAN to flex and adapt based on usage and coverage. This flexibility provides expanded and more convenient network location choices for the baseband processing. Therefore, this architecture naturally fits in existing networks’ backhaul infrastructure and is future-proof for evolution towards a fully virtualized and cloud RAN architecture. In addition, it offers a strategic differentiation by enabling the Remote Radio Units (RRUs) to interwork with the Virtualized Baseband Unit (vBBU) over a non-ideal fronthaul (i.e. ethernet), overcoming the traditional constraints of CPRI over fiber.

Conventional RAN platforms have been based on proprietary hardware and rely on long life-cycles in development, deployment, and operation. With each generation of radio interface change, these radios are typically replaced with the newer versions at a significant investment and inconvenience to the CSPs. Furthermore, radio infrastructures based on this approach are designed based on the peak capacity without granular power and interference management capabilities. This creates the vendor lock-in and the inability to keep pace with technology and demographic transitions.

As a Network Software Provider, Mavenir’s approach is radically different from traditional proprietary approaches. With a comprehensive portfolio of fully virtualized VNFs, cloud-native virtualization of the baseband processing is extended to the edge of the network. vRAN brings increased business agility with network elasticity, flexibility, and dynamic RAN optimization. The baseband processing centralization enables dynamic RAN adaptation through hierarchical mobility, SON, CoMP, centralized scheduling, policy enforcement, and interference control. In addition, Mavenir’s vBBU is designed to support multiple Fronthaul splits simultaneously – making the vRAN solution an ideal choice for a vendor-agnostic and future-proof strategy for the CSPs.

DOWNLOAD vRAN DIAGRAMM