BEREC Internal Report on the Open Radio Access Network (RAN)

Document number: BoR (21) 162

Document date: 09-12-2021

Date of registration: 14-06-2022

Document type:
Author: BEREC

Open RAN means a software-based network solution based on open and modular interfaces within the Radio Access Network (RAN). Open RAN aims to make such interfaces more interoperable. As a result, hardware and software components may be provided by multiple suppliers. Virtualisation and cloudification (of the interfaces and other elements) may enable operators to run software services on generic hardware. Essentially, Open RAN is considered a logical next step in the technological development of communications networks. Although Open RAN is not explicitly mentioned in the EU toolbox on 5G Cybersecurity, it is perceived as a tool to implement some of the measures in the toolbox.