The document discusses virtualization of the radio access network (RAN) and small cells. It notes that some mobile network operators are taking early steps towards RAN virtualization by extending base station hotels and virtualizing some functions, but not using cloud technology yet. True RAN virtualization will be driven by new low-power deployments, network densification, and total cost of ownership reductions. Virtualization could also accelerate some dense small cell projects. Common core networks, management, and policy tools would allocate resources where most needed. However, there are considerable barriers to fully virtualized RANs, including a lack of common approaches, proprietary early trials, immature solutions, incomplete standards, and skills/cultural challenges.

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Maravedis-Rethink operator survey May 2014
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Copyright © Maravedis Inc 2013.
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• First steps to virtualized RAN
– Extend base station hotel
– Virtualize some functions, no cloud
yet
• Drivers for true vRAN
– New deployments with low power
– Densification
– TCO
• About small sites, overlap with
small cells
• Virtualization will accelerate
some dense small cell projects
• Common core, management and
policy tools allocate resources
where most needed
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
%ofMNOs
RAN virtualization Small cells Both

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% naming as chief barrier to small cell RAN virtualization
Maravedis-Rethink operator survey May 2014
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Copyright © Maravedis Inc 2013.
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• Considerable barriers to vRAN in
all layers
• Early trials and showcases highly
proprietary
• Operators need confidence of
common approach and
ecosystem before they invest
• Opportunity for multivendor
open environment
• Role for industry bodies such as
SCF
18
17
1613
12
10
10
4
Performance compromises
Security issues
Need for common
architecture
Skills and culture
Immature solutions
Waste current investments
Incomplete standards
Server costs