The Evolution of RAN

Abstract

The Radio Access Network (RAN) has undergone several transformations since the first-generation wireless networks. Each transformation is aimed to increase performance and improve deployment time, reliability, flexibility, spectrum efficiency, and sustainability. However, the increased demand for more bandwidth to support modern applications and new verticals moving into the digitization and automation era (e.g. manufacturing, healthcare, cities infrastructures, and utilities), as well as the need to support ultra-low latency-critical applications (e.g. assisted and autonomous driving, remote surgery, and robotics), require a versatile RAN network and architecture that exceed all previous generations RAN transformations. This chapter will take you through each wireless generation’s significant RAN architectural and functional advances. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the potential of Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) and the future of 6G to truly transform the wireless telecommunication ecosystem.