Trends and Developments in Open RAN 1

Contents
Executive summary................................................................................................................................................. 3

1. Open RAN update............................................................................................................................................... 5

2. Open RAN ecosystem......................................................................................................................................... 7

2.1 Open RAN standards.................................................................................................................................. 7

2.2 U.S. government Open RAN initiatives..................................................................................................... 8

3. Industry adoption and market deployments..................................................................................................... 9

3.1 Greenfield deployment at scale................................................................................................................. 9

3.2 Ready for brownfield deployments............................................................................................................ 9

3.3 Branching out into verticals....................................................................................................................... 9

4. Specification updates......................................................................................................................................... 11

4.1 Network energy savings capabilities......................................................................................................... 11

4.2 Demodulation reference signal based beamforming............................................................................... 11

4.3 Security solutions....................................................................................................................................... 12

4.4 CBRS support in Open RAN....................................................................................................................... 12

4.5 O-RAN study on multi-vendor spectrum aggregation............................................................................... 12

4.6 Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT)............................................................................................................................ 13

5. Use cases............................................................................................................................................................ 14

5.1 Cloud automation....................................................................................................................................... 14

5.2 Acceleration/high-performance compute................................................................................................. 14

5.3 mmWave..................................................................................................................................................... 16

5.4 Non-terrestrial networks............................................................................................................................ 16

6. RAN intelligent controller (RIC).......................................................................................................................... 17

6.1 Programmability via xApps and rApps for the Open RAN architecture................................................... 17

6.2 Role of near-RT RIC and non-RT RIC......................................................................................................... 18

6.3 Key potential use cases............................................................................................................................. 19

7. 6G research work in O-RAN................................................................................................................................ 20

7.1 RR-2023-01, O-RAN Towards 6G............................................................................................................... 20

7.2 RR-2023-02, O-RAN Native AI Architecture Description and RR-2023-03,

Native and Cross-domain AI: State of the art and future outlook.................................................................. 20

7.3 RR-2023-04, Quantum Security................................................................................................................ 20

7.4 RR-2023-05, Spectrum Sharing with Shared O-RU.................................................................................. 20

7.5 RR-2024-01, O-RAN Cloud-Friendly Future 6G RAN................................................................................. 20

Summary................................................................................................................................................................. 21

Appendix.................................................................................................................................................................. 22

Appendix A: Acronyms....................................................................................................................................... 22

Acknowledgments................................................................................................................................................... 24

References............................................................................................................................................................... 25

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 2

Executive summary
The Open Radio Access Networks (Open RAN) industry is dynamically evolving, shifting
from proprietary, closed architectures to open, modular designs that support multi-vendor
interoperability. This evolution promotes competition, reduces costs, and encourages innovation
while expanding the RAN ecosystem. Open RAN’s cloud-native architecture provides scalability,
streamlines network management through standardized operations, and enables AI/ML-driven
analytics for continuous network optimization. This open architecture allows different vendors
to contribute components, enabling operators to mix and match equipment from different
manufacturers. This promotes competition and drives down costs. Additionally, the openness
of the network enables a way to integrate new technologies, facilitate innovation and enhance
networks. With a growing number of deployments, Open RAN is gaining momentum, initially
focused on greenfield deployments and now expanding into brownfield network modernization.
This growth is accompanied by opportunities to serve new vertical markets and further
innovation in the telecommunications industry.

This technical paper builds on the groundwork laid by previous 5G Americas Open RAN
publications that identified significant interest in the more recent specification developments
which were still a work in progress related to enhancements to the open fronthaul specification
including new beamforming method in uplink as well as improved energy savings functionality.
With the specification of these capabilities now complete, 5G Americas is able to provide more
detail and insight from the latest O-RAN ALLIANCE specifications related to Demodulation
Reference Signal-based Beamforming (DMRS-BF), also known as Uplink Performance
Improvement (ULPI) and Network Energy Savings (NES), improving both performance and
energy efficiency. Security has been reinforced with the introduction of Zero Trust Architecture
(ZTA) and the use of MACsec to secure open fronthaul interfaces. Spectrum capabilities are
expanding with support for Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS), NB-IoT, and multi-
vendor spectrum aggregation. Collaboration between RAN vendors and cloud providers has
resulted in innovative solutions for edge networks and datacenters, optimizing performance
while balancing cost. Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) pipelines are further
streamlining network operations, reducing manual intervention, and lowering total cost of
ownership.

While Open RAN offers numerous advantages, including flexibility, scalability, and cost-
effectiveness, the integration of components from multiple vendors can be complex, although
global efforts to support Open RAN adoption—through funding, test labs, and policies—can
mitigate these challenges. Governments are also hoping for greater interoperability, security,
and vendor diversity, which could accelerate Open RAN’s widespread adoption. The integration
of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), including satellite communications, offers further
enhancements for global connectivity, especially in remote areas, and may be an important
driver for 6G research and development. Additionally, energy-saving features like RF channel
switch-off and advanced sleep modes contribute to sustainability by reducing network power
consumption.

Looking ahead, Open RAN’s transition from greenfield to brownfield deployments will continue
to reshape telecom networks. The flexibility of Open RAN, combined with ongoing innovation,
positions it as a key enabler of next-generation network technologies. With the O-RAN Alliance’s
ongoing research into open and intelligent RAN principles for 6G and future standards, Open
RAN is set to play a pivotal role in the evolution of telecom networks. By fostering competition,
driving efficiency, and opening new avenues for innovation, Open RAN could deliver lasting
transformation across the telecommunications landscape.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 3

Open RAN is experiencing rapid growth due to its potential benefits in terms of flexibility,
cost savings, and innovation. The open architecture allows different vendors to contribute
components, enabling operators to mix and match equipment from different manufacturers.
This promotes competition and drives down costs. Additionally, the openness of the network
enables fast integration of new technologies, facilitating innovation and enhancing network
performance. As a result, more and more telecom companies are adopting Open RAN solutions,
contributing to its growth in recent years.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 4

1. Open RAN update
The Open RAN industry is dynamically evolving, transitioning from closed, monolithic
architectures to open architectures based on the decomposition of physical and virtual
functions, supported by interoperable interfaces that enable multi-vendor deployments.
This evolution is being fueled by the ongoing efforts of the Open RAN industry bodies, which
are defining and refining Open RAN interfaces and specifications and driving multi-vendor
interoperability to enable market deployments. Open RAN is experiencing rapid growth due to
its potential benefits in terms of flexibility, cost savings, and innovation. The open architecture
allows different vendors to contribute components, enabling operators to mix and match
equipment from different manufacturers. This promotes competition and drives down costs.
Additionally, the openness of the network enables faster integration of new technologies,
facilitating innovation and enhancing network performance. As a result, more and more telecom
companies are adopting Open RAN solutions, contributing to its exponential growth in recent
years

This technical paper provides insights into updates to the Open RAN ecosystem, architecture,
specifications, and use cases. Given the dynamic nature of the Open RAN environment and the
succession of specification updates from the O-RAN ALLIANCE, the scope of the material used
has been restricted to documentation publicly available as of October 2024 and available for
download.1

This technical paper builds on the groundwork laid by previous 5G Americas Open RAN
publications, which identified significant interest in the more recent specification developments,
which are work in progress, related to enhancements to the fronthaul split and improved energy
savings functionality. With the specification of these capabilities now complete, 5G Americas is
able to provide more detail and insight from the latest O-RAN ALLIANCE specifications related
to Demodulation Reference Signal based Beamforming (DMRS-BF), also known as Uplink
Performance Improvement (ULPI) and NES features.

We also cover advances related to O-RAN security and architecture. Building on earlier papers
that introduced O-RAN’s pursuit of a ZTA, the paper calls out recent publications related
to “Zero Trust Architecture for Secure O-RAN.” More concretely, technical reports covering
recommendations for enhancing the security of the fronthaul network are listed, together with
their adoption in fronthaul specifications that now define the use of MACsec to protect the open
fronthaul interfaces.

The paper describes spectrum related features supported in O-RAN including CBRS, NB-IoT
and recently completed study on multi-vendor spectrum aggregation. The paper describes
recent collaborations between RAN vendors and cloud providers that have enabled innovative
solutions for edge networks and data centers, balancing performance and economics.
Recognizing the importance of high-performance processing to Open RAN, we describe the
two competing approaches that have emerged: Full L1 Accelerator (in-line acceleration) and
Selected Function Hardware Accelerator (Lookaside Acceleration). Both methods are compatible
with COTS servers, facilitating easier scaling and faster deployment.

NTNs are reshaping satellite communications by seamlessly integrating with terrestrial

networks. This paper describes how cloud-native and virtualized RAN technologies are
enhancing global connectivity, enabling coverage in the most remote areas, and driving
innovation through technologies.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 5

Advancements and recent deployments of RIC and its use cases, that help to optimize
network performance, improve resource management, and foster innovation through modular
applications like rApps and xApps.

The paper concludes with a brief review of the output from O-RAN Alliance’s next Generation
Research Group (nGRG), a task force within O-RAN ALLIANCE, that focuses on research of open
and intelligent RAN principles in 6G and future network standards.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 6

2. Open RAN ecosystem ecosystem. The O-RAN Alliance, a collective driving
this evolution, reports a growing number of trials and
deployments across the globe. The O-RAN Alliance’s
Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) is an industry-
commitment to open and intelligent RAN is reflected in the
wide initiative aimed at standardizing interfaces within
increasing number of member companies and deployments,
the RAN and promoting open and interoperable networks,
indicating a shift towards more open, virtualized, and
possible new entrants into the RAN market space, increases
interoperable networks.
competition, and fosters innovation.
This trend is not limited to a single region but is a worldwide
The Open RAN movement is reshaping the future of
phenomenon, with over 50 deployments and trials from
networks through a collaborative effort involving over 136
operators across more than 20 countries, including notable
Open RAN element specific stakeholders globally, along
efforts in Japan, Europe, and the Americas. As the industry
with government bodies, industry alliances, and operators.
moves forward, the deployment footprint of Open RAN
Open RAN is revolutionizing the mobile telecommunications
is expected to expand, marking a significant shift in how
industry by offering a more flexible, cost-effective, and
mobile networks are built and operated.
innovative approach to deploying networks. The framework
of Open RAN is to disaggregate the traditional, monolithic 2.1 Open RAN standards
network deployment method, allowing for a mix-and-
match approach using hardware and software from The 4G and 5G mobile standards are developed by
different vendors. This approach is driven by the need for 3GPP, they are published by its Standards Development
more adaptable networks, especially with the advent of Organization (SDO) partners. 3GPP encompasses seven
5G technology, delivering a more dynamic and scalable different SDOs that publish the standards in different
infrastructure. Open RAN can bring in innovation at a faster regions of the world:
pace by riding on the significant investments made by
• European Telecommunications Standards Institute
chipset vendors. Coupled with data availability across the (ETSI) (Europe and rest of world),
open interfaces, that can be consumed by AI/ML algorithms • Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions
to optimize network performance with the RIC, Open RAN (ATIS) (USA),
can support use cases to optimize both network and user • Association of Radio Industries and Businesses) ARIB
performance. and Telecommunications Technology Committee) TTC
(Japan),
In the past years, the Open RAN ecosystem has witnessed • Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA)
a significant evolution, marked by increased vendor (South Korea),
collaboration and adoption. Industry leaders have continued • China Communications Standards Association (CCSA)
to spearhead the market, driving innovation and pushing the (China) and
boundaries of what is possible with Open RAN technology. • Telecommunications Standards Development Society,
This ecosystem is driving innovation with Radio Units (RU), India (TSDSI) (India).
Central Units (CU), Distributed Units (DU), RIC, and various The O-RAN Alliance has taken a similar approach,
applications (xApps, rApps) provided by Original Equipment partnering with ETSI to adopt its specifications as ETSI
Manufacturers (OEMs). The role of COTS hardware, cloud Technical Specifications. This is enabled by using the ETSI
technology providers, and chipset manufacturers is Publicly Available Specification (PAS) process, whereby
crucial in establishing a robust RAN infrastructure. System the O-RAN Alliance submits its specification to ETSI. ETSI
integrators, test and measurement solution providers, and has designated the ETSI Mobile Standards Group (MSG)
Open Test and Integration Centers (OTICs) are essential Technical Committee as being responsible for reviewing the
for ensuring the interoperability and reliability of Open submitted O-RAN specifications and working with O-RAN
RAN solutions, thus fostering a sustainable and strong rapporteurs to address any issues raised during the review
ecosystem for the future networks. process.

Open RAN is gaining traction globally with its promise The first specification to go through this process was the
of interoperability and innovation, leveraging a robust O-RAN Fronthaul Control, User and Synchronization Plane
ecosystem of network hardware and software components. Specification v7.0, first published by O-RAN as v7.0.0
This allows operators to integrate equipment from various in October 2021, and subsequently published by ETSI
vendors, fostering a more competitive and diverse

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 7

in September 2022 as [ETSI TS 103 859] v7.0.2.2 This (NTIA) has awarded 17 projects in the first round of grants
time delta is required for O-RAN Alliance to complete its from the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund to
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) review processes as well industry consortiums, companies and universities including
as allowing ETSI MSG to complete its review of the publicly DISH Wireless’ Open RAN Center for Integration and
available O-RAN specification. Deployment (ORCID)7 and Acceleration of Compatibility and
Commercialization for Open RAN Deployments (ACCoRD)
The second batch of seven O-RAN specifications were with AT&T and Verizon.8 These collaborations rigorously test
adopted by ETSI in January 2024.3 These specifications individual and combined Open RAN components and pave
cover the O-RAN Architecture description and the O-RAN A1 the way for widespread adoption of open, interoperable, and
interface, enabling intelligent RAN management and control standards-based radio access networks.
features through the RIC.
Details about future NOFOs, including NOFO3, are
The third batch of O-RAN specifications were adopted by anticipated to further support the expansion and
ETSI In May 2024. These include the complete O-RAN interoperability of O-RAN technologies. NOFO is a specific
Fronthaul specifications for control, user, synchronization funding initiative aimed at supporting the development,
and management planes specifications and associated deployment, and enhancement of Open RAN technologies.
YANG models.4 5 This funding opportunity is designed to accelerate
innovation and ensure the creation of secure, interoperable,
At the time of writing, the ETSI MSG work program displays and flexible radio access networks. Eligible applicants
the next set of O-RAN specifications going through the PAS typically include private companies, research institutions,
process, including work on three different O-RAN Security and universities, with the goal of fostering collaboration and
Specifications as well as Near-Real Time RIC E2 interface driving advancements in the Open RAN ecosystem.
specifications.
The NTIA’s leadership with this program is going a long way
This partnership promotes unified standards, ensuring in unleashing the full possibilities of Open RAN, but success
interoperability and seamless integration among different hinges upon the collaboration by network operators,
vendors’ equipment. Standardization fosters a more open technology providers, policymakers, and academia to deliver
market, enhancing innovation and competition by allowing open, secure and high-performing networks.
various manufacturers to develop compatible solutions,
ultimately benefiting network operators and consumers
through improved technology and reduced costs.

2.2 U.S. government Open RAN initiatives

The NTIA (National Telecommunications and Information
Administration) has been actively promoting and supporting
the O-RAN ecosystem.

In April 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce

announced the formation of the Wireless Innovation
Fund (WIF), which is investing $1.5 billion to advance the
testing and evaluation of open and interoperable network
infrastructure in the U.S.6 Managed by the NTIA, WIF issued
the first Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to expand
testing and interoperability of network elements from
various technology providers and ultimately remove barriers
to adoption. On February 13, 2024, NTIA announced grants
to support the testing and evaluation of Open RAN hardware
and software. These grants mark an important step toward
the federal government’s objective of fostering a vibrant and
secure ecosystem of network technology that adheres to
open and standardized interfaces in wireless networks.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 8

3. Industry adoption and Vendor diversity is another key trend, with operators
increasingly employing multi-vendor strategies. This
market deployments approach incorporates equipment and software from
various suppliers, fostering competition and driving
3.1 Greenfield deployment at scale innovation. Open interfaces and standards, such as
those defined by industry alliances, support this modular
The mobile telecommunications industry is on the brink of and open architecture, enhancing network flexibility and
a revolution, with the large-scale deployment of Open RAN scalability.
solutions leading the charge. This movement is not just a
fleeting trend but a substantial shift towards more efficient, Performance optimization is crucial in brownfield Open RAN
cost-effective, open, and flexible network infrastructures. deployments. Advanced analytics and AI-driven tools are
One of the most significant deployments to date has used to improve the performance of both legacy and new
been for DISH Network in the U.S., marking a greenfield network components. Additionally, Open RAN supports
deployment that sets the stage for future endeavors. network slicing, enabling the creation of virtual networks
tailored to specific use cases while integrating seamlessly
3.2 Ready for brownfield deployments with existing infrastructure. This capability enhances
network adaptability and efficiency.
While greenfield deployments of Open RAN, where new
networks are built from scratch, have garnered much of the
These drivers have resulted in significant adoption of Open
initial attention, looking ahead, the focus shifts to brownfield
RAN in brownfield deployments, including:
operators in Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America, who
are embracing Open RAN while leveraging the inherited • AT&T9
values of cloud infrastructure and automation tools to • KDDI10
enhance operational efficiency. These involve integrating • O2 Telefónica11
Open RAN solutions into existing legacy networks, offering a • STC12
more incremental and less disruptive modernization path.
• Telefónica Germany13
Brownfield operators are strategically embracing Open RAN • Verizon14
by leveraging cloud infrastructure and automation tools • Virgin Media O215
to boost operational efficiency. This approach facilitates • Vodafone16 17
a seamless migration from outdated systems to modern, • Vodafone Idea18
disaggregated 4G/5G networks. It enables operators to
In summary, brownfield Open RAN deployments offer a
maintain a competitive edge and meet evolving consumer
pragmatic approach to modernizing telecom networks.
demands without the need for a complete network overhaul.
They enable operators to leverage existing infrastructure
A notable trend in brownfield deployments is the adoption while progressively integrating new technologies, striking
of hybrid architectures, which combine legacy systems a balance between innovation, cost-effectiveness, and
with Open RAN components. This gradual upgrade process operational continuity.
reduces costs and complexity, allowing for modular
3.3 Branching out into verticals
enhancements rather than a full-scale replacement.
Advances in interoperability standards and interfaces The rise of Open RAN is catalyzing significant
support this integration, making it easier to incorporate new transformations across various vertical markets,
technologies into existing infrastructures. driving innovation and creating new opportunities. The
adoption of Open RAN defined “shared cell” and “shared
Cost efficiency is a major advantage of brownfield O-RU” functionality is enabling Open RAN solutions
deployments. By adopting new technologies incrementally, to address conventional Distributed Antenna System
operators can manage capital expenditure more effectively, (DAS) opportunities, leading to accelerated deployments
avoiding the high costs of building entirely new networks. of multi-vendor capability that offers scalability and
This modular approach allows for updates to specific flexibility in network management and deployment. These
network functions or components without disrupting the advancements can also lead to substantial benefits by
entire system, resulting in a more flexible and economic eliminating the need for passive elements and cumbersome
modernization process. on-site RRH infrastructure.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 9

The innovative solution incorporates Open RAN software, including a DU and a CU, to deliver
comprehensive in-building 4G/5G coverage, which can be deployed on-prem or on the
centralized cloud infrastructure. Unlike legacy DAS solutions that rely on RF signals transmitted
over heavy coaxial cables, this architecture uses a digital connection over an open fronthaul
interface via fiber-optic cables. This advancement significantly reduces deployment costs and
complexity, allowing for easier installation, management, and scaling of the network. Companies
are embracing O-RAN’s fronthaul multiplexer specifications to enable a new paradigm for indoor
private networks.

The new in-building DAS solution eliminates the need for traditional remote radio units (RRUs),
thereby reducing space, power, and cooling requirements. The flexibility and scalability of
this solution make it a future-proof option for indoor connectivity across various deployment
scenarios, such as offices, stadiums, schools, and hospitals. By leveraging a fiber-to-antenna
architecture, communication service providers can ensure enhanced coverage and a better
quality of experience (QoE) for users, making it a robust solution for modern indoor network
demands.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 10

4. Specification updates specification has been enhanced with the Advanced
Sleep Mode command. This command allows the O-DU
to signal the O-RU that it intends to stop sending C-plane
4.1 Network energy savings capabilities and U-plane commands for specific carriers, antenna
arrays or the whole O-RU. The O-RU is expected to use the
Since 5GA published their last technical paper on Open
Advanced Sleep Mode command to enable energy savings
RAN, there has been significant progress on enhancing the
operations, although as the exact operations will depend on
Open RAN architecture and specifications with new energy
O-RU design, the details of the energy savings operations
savings functionality.
are left to vendor implementation. The O-DU may indicate
Within O-RAN, NES is defined as a Minimal Viable Plan the time at which it is scheduled to re-commence sending
Committee (MVP-C) feature. MVP-C features define a C-plane and U-plane commands, or the time may be
prioritized roadmap of technical specifications across undefined, which then is determined to last until the O-RU
multiple O-RAN working groups, required to implement end- receives a C-plane command to trigger the O-RU to leave
to-end O-RAN solutions. The NES feature recognizes that the its energy savings state. Unlike TRX control that operates
RAN is the primary energy consumer in a mobile network, energy savings that span the antenna array, the scope of
with the O-RU being the component that uses the most an Advanced Sleep Mode command can span the antenna
energy. array, a particular carrier, or the entire O-RU.

4.1.1 Cell/carrier switch on/off 4.2 Demodulation reference signal based

beamforming
This capability offers two modes of operation: sleep mode,
in which the radio’s power amplifiers remain with minimum O-RAN Alliance WG4 approved the work item in January,
current draw, and deep-hibernate mode, where the unit 2022, tasked with studying if uplink performance and
becomes dormant, and interfaces are temporarily switched fronthaul bandwidth savings can be improved using DMRS
off. In deep-hibernate mode, the O-RU indicates the (Demodulation Reference Signal) beamforming methods
minimum and maximum hibernation times it can support, (DMRS-BF) by moving some functions from the DU to
in units of minutes. The O-DU then signals the O-RU to the RU. This work item is named as Uplink Performance
enter deep-hibernate mode for a set duration, during Improvement (ULPI). It was suggested to assess the uplink
which time the O-RU is permitted to stop all control, user, performance benefits if UL beamforming weight calculation
synchronization and management plane functionality. At is moved to the O-RU and the weights are calculated based
the end of this hibernate-time, the O-RU performs a regular on channel estimation done in the O-RU using the received
re-start. UL DMRS. The study phase of this work item completed
in Q4 2023 with conclusion that the performance
4.1.2 RF channel switch on/off improvement of DMRS beamforming varies and depends
on many factors such as system load, cell size, UE mobility,
This capability reduces O-RU power consumption in massive SRS periodicity, etc. However, DMRS beamforming can
MIMO deployments by enabling selected RF channels provide performance gains when fronthaul bandwidth
to be turned off/on. Version 15 of the Open Fronthaul is constrained, for example, when compared with the
specification introduced new capability for energy savings existing beamforming methods, such as real-time weight
through disabling one or more O-RU array elements for a based dynamic beamforming method (WDBF), channel
defined period of time. The C-plane has been enhanced with information-based beamforming method (CIBF) etc. These
Transmitter/Receiver (TRX) control capability, allowing the current approaches can provide similar performance as
O-DU to disable some fraction of the O-RU’s antenna array DMRS beamforming when there is sufficient fronthaul
elements. Similarly, the M-plane has also been enhanced bandwidth available. However, it was noted that the
with TRX control capability, allowing an O-DU to configure fronthaul bandwidth needed for uplink is lower with DMRS
the antenna masks per tx-array and rx-array to enable beamforming, while the radio complexity is higher because
energy savings to be affected. DMRS beamforming require additional functional blocks
to be moved from the DU to the RU. Based on these
4.1.3 Advanced sleep modes
observations, it was concluded to pursue the inclusion
The feature reduces power consumption by partially of DMRS beamforming methods into the O-RAN WG4
switching off O-RU components. The open fronthaul specification under the condition of maintaining backwards

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 11

compatibility to preserve ecosystem interoperability and to and specifies security requirements and controls. Recent
avoid market fragmentation. updates to these work items include publication of O-RAN
Study on Security for Security for Fronthaul CUS-plane
The normative work of standardizing DMRS beamforming v01.00.20 This report identifies the critical assets that
in the open fronthaul release 16 of WG4 CUS-plane require protection within the CUS-plane, details the key
and M-plane specification was published in October issues, threats emanating from the key issues and the
2024DMRS-based beamforming (DMRS-BF) is defined as potential risks involved. The recommendations in the report
a beamforming method wherein the O-RU computes UE have been adopted by O-RAN ALLIANCES Work Group 4
channel estimates based on the received UE UL DMRS which has added ability to protect the fronthaul’s control-
symbols, then computes “weights” based on those channel and user-plane protocols with IEEE 802.1AE MACsec.21
estimates and applies the weights to the UE UL data. There Complementing earlier versions of its specifications
are two DMRS beamforming variants considered: that mandate the support of IEEE 802.1X port-based
authentication that support deployment scenarios where
• DMRS-BF-NEQ (Cat. B Class B) where the “weights”
are beamforming weights that do not include an a physically secure point-to-point Ethernet Local Area
equalization function, and Network (LAN) is used to transport the fronthaul traffic,
• DMRS-BF-EQ (Cat. B Class A) where the “weights” are MACsec can be used in scenarios where the fronthaul traffic
beamforming weights that include an equalization requires an additional layer of security protection. With
function. its mandatory cipher, MACsec ensures that the fronthaul
A common O-DU implementation will be able to interwork traffic is protected from eavesdropping and modification by
with radios supporting either of the DMRS beamforming unauthorized parties.
method and existing real-time weight based dynamic
beamforming method. To avoid ecosystem fragmentation, it 4.4 CBRS support in Open RAN
is mandatory that an O-RU supporting DMRS-BF will support
While conventional carrier deployments using Open RAN
real-time weight based dynamic beamforming method. It
have focused on operation in traditional exclusively licensed
was also noted in WG4 studies that DMRS-BF-NEQ method
spectrum, around the world regulators are introducing
can reduce O-RU complexity but with a potential impact on
shared access regimes to open spectrum to more users and
UL air interface performance. Operators deploying Open
to facilitate the use of spectrum bands where there may be
RAN using DMRS-BF based radio and O-DU products need
incumbent users that inhibit spectrum being licensed on
to take into consideration of such tradeoff between O-RU
an exclusive basis. The CBRS is one such shared access
complexity and UL air interface performance.
framework operated in the United States for use with the
4.3 Security solutions 3.5 GHz band.22 CBRS relies on the ability of base stations
being able to perform power measurements in the 3.5 GHz
As sophisticated threat actors and attacks continue to band and to report those to a Spectrum Access System
evolve, perimeter security alone is no longer sufficient, (SAS) that is then responsible for coordinating sharing of
and it is necessary to have a security posture that protects the available frequencies. Recent enhancements to the
against external and internal threats. Open RAN continues O-RAN ALLIANCES fronthaul specifications enables an O-RU
to pursue a ZTA following the incremental stages of a zero controller to command an O-RU to perform received power
trust maturity model (ZTMM). With a ZTA, network functions measurements for shared spectrum bands, enabling an
are secured as micro-perimeters, data-in-transit is protected O-RU controller to interwork those measurements reports
on external and internal interfaces, and data-at-rest is into standardized CBRS procedures to the SAS.
secure from external and internal subjects requesting
access. ZTA is built upon multi-layered security controls that 4.5 O-RAN study on multi-vendor spectrum
provide confidentiality, integrity, availability, and authenticity aggregation
protection from internal and external threats. The O-RAN
Spectrum aggregation across different bands plays an
ALLIANCE in its paper “Zero Trust Architecture for Secure
essential role for enhancing user experience and efficient
O-RAN”19 provides additional insights into its journey to a
use of frequency resources. As MNOs get access to new
ZTA for O-RAN.
NR spectrum, they usually desire to aggregate the capacity
O-RAN ALLIANCE Work Group 11 for Security considers across the different bands. O-RAN initiated a study item
ZTA in all of their work items as it performs threat analysis that aims to identify practical scenarios for spectrum
aggregation across equipment from multiple network

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 12

equipment vendors. The study item considers scenarios where different O-RAN NFs can be
co-located or non-co-located. Supplementary spectrum aggregation scenarios such as SUL
and SDL deployment are also covered. Different considerations for spectrum combinations, UE
requirements and solution evaluation criteria are also documented. The study item for multi-
vendor spectrum aggregation has been completed and is a part of the July train.

To address spectrum aggregation in multi-vendor RAN deployment scenarios, three solutions

are described: Intra O-DU CA, Inter O-DU CA, and Dual Connectivity. While the Intra O-DU CA
and Dual Connectivity scenarios are covered in existing O-RAN and 3GPP specifications, the
study item document also covers the requirements for supporting a newly proposed Inter O-DU
CA solution along with an outline for the solution architecture with a D2 interface between the
O-DUs.

4.6 Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT)

Narrowband and Internet of Things (NB-IoT), which is a 3GPP defined low power wide area
network (LPWAN) technology developed to enable extended coverage such as indoor and
underground scenarios and a massive number of IoT devices and services. O-RAN WG4
introduced the support for NB-IoT in the open fronthaul release 12 of WG4 CUS-plane and
M-plane specifications completed in March 2023. In-band and Guard-band mode of NB-IoT
deployment is supported in the WG4 fronthaul specifications. The inclusion of the NB-IoT feature
in the WG4 specifications allows the MNOs to deploy NB-IoT carriers in a multi-vendor scenario.
Specification supports NB-IoT downlink channels and uplink channels, including NPRACH.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 13

5. Use cases
5.1 Cloud automation
For decision-makers at the helm of large-scale telco operations, shifting towards an open,
disaggregated RAN presents a strategic opportunity to overcome traditional challenges. These
include mitigating financial risks, reducing operational expenditure, and meeting the concurrent
demands of 4G and 5G technologies.

Over the past year, Open RAN has made significant strides, harnessing the power of cloud
infrastructure and its automation tools. This has effectively tackled the complexities of
managing and automating wireless networks on a large-scale. The recent deployment of tens
of thousands of Open RAN sites in a short duration is a perfect example of scalability and
efficiency leveraging the best IT principle of cloud infrastructure in the telecom domain. The
approach accelerates and simplifies deployments across distributed RAN sites with cloud-smart
automation, improving performance, operability, and scale, helping accelerate adoption and
time-to-launch.

The cloudification of Open RAN encompasses complete lifecycle management, from the initial
setup (day 0), through deployment (day 1), to ongoing operations and scaling (day 2). By
transitioning from traditional bare-metal infrastructures to cloud-based environments, Open
RAN has enabled operators to become more agile and responsive to market demands. The
integration of Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) pipelines further enhances
efficiency by automating upgrades and maintenance, reducing manual intervention, and
minimizing human error.

Significant collaboration has been noticed in the past year among the RAN vendors and public/
private cloud infrastructure providers, leading to innovative solutions that balance performance
and economics across edge networks and data centers. This flexibility allows communication
service providers (CSPs) to optimize capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operational expenditures
(OPEX) according to network requirements, enabling a pay-as-you-grow model for scalable
network operations.

Looking ahead, the advancements in cloud automation within the Open RAN domain are
expected to redefine the capabilities of CSPs, driving innovation and delivering enhanced
services to end-users. The synergy of Open RAN and cloud-native technologies promises a new
era of network automation characterized by unprecedented efficiency, flexibility, and intelligence.

5.2 Acceleration/high-performance compute

The landscape of Open RAN has witnessed significant advancements, particularly in the domain
of Layer 1 acceleration. In the cloud-native RAN implementation, particularly for high capacity
systems where a substantial amount of computing resources are needed to handle complex
functions such as Layer 1 FEC (forward error correction, an error correction technique to detect
and correct a limited number of errors in transmitted data from a user without the need for
retransmission), it is highly desirable to offload that computing to a hardware accelerator. 5G
has seen the introduction of new physical-layer channel coding schemes of polar and low-
density parity-check (LDPC) codes, replacing the turbo codes defined for 4G. The structure of
LDPC encoding and decoding enables parallelism that can benefit from realization in dedicated
accelerators. There are interests by the ecosystem for both acceleration design options, based
on suppliers’ areas of expertise. Two critical approaches—Full L1 Accelerator (also known as

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 14

“in-line acceleration”) and Selected Function Hardware Accelerator (also known as “Lookaside
acceleration”) —have emerged as pivotal to enhancing the performance and efficiency of Open
RAN deployments. These architectures address the growing demand for high-performance
processing while maintaining the flexibility and cost-effectiveness that Open RAN promises.

Figure 1: Comparing in-line and lookaside acceleration

In-line Acceleration

In-line acceleration processes data packets directly as they flow through the RAN infrastructure,
the potential benefit of this approach is that the full L1 offloading allows independent scaling of
Layer 2 and Layer 3 function in CPU. Recent advancements in in-line acceleration have focused
on developing more energy-efficient and high-performance FPGA (Field Programmable Gate
Arrays) and ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) solutions, which optimize resource
usage and enhance network efficiency.

Lookaside Acceleration

Lookaside acceleration involves offloading specific processing tasks to dedicated hardware

accelerators operating in-parallel to the main data path. This makes the solution more energy-
efficient and offers increased design flexibility and portability. Recent trends in lookaside
acceleration include integrating advanced machine learning models and real-time analytics to
improve network performance and security without overburdening the main CPU.

A key advantage of these acceleration architectures is their compatibility with COTS servers.
This integration offers easier scaling and greater flexibility in deployment, enabling faster rollout
of Open RAN solutions and streamlining the overall deployment process.

The success and adoption of in-line and lookaside acceleration in Open RAN heavily rely
on the contributions of key industry players. Semiconductor companies and hardware
manufacturers have been at the forefront, developing cutting-edge technologies that drive
these advancements. These companies have introduced innovative solutions that enhance
performance, efficiency, and flexibility in network deployments. The contributions include:

• Advanced FPGA and ASIC Technologies: Delivering high-performance in-line acceleration

for eMBB and URLLC applications.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 15

 • AI and ML Integration: Enhancing lookaside solutions.
acceleration hardware with machine learning
capabilities to optimize network operations and Open RAN plays a crucial role in these innovations by
security.
facilitating flexible, virtualized, and cloud-native architecture.
• GPU-Based Acceleration: Leveraging parallel By decoupling hardware and software components,
processing capabilities to support complex signal
processing and AI/ML-driven tasks. Open RAN allows network functions to operate on COTS
hardware. The cloud-native NTN architecture leverages
The past year has witnessed remarkable progress in the
containerized and virtualized RAN workloads, offering
development and deployment of in-line and lookaside
unparalleled flexibility and scalability. A key innovation
acceleration technologies for Layer 1 in Open RAN.
is the implementation of digital interfaces between the
These advancements address the critical needs of high-
virtualized RAN and Satellite beamformers, which enhances
performance processing, low-latency, and real-time
interoperability and minimizes signal conversion losses,
analytics, making Open RAN a viable and competitive option
ensuring high-performance, sustainable connectivity.
for modern network deployments.
These advancements support a wide range of applications,
5.3 mmWave
including IoT, mobile broadband, emergency services, and
In general, mmWave is best suited for densely populated environmental monitoring. By adhering to 3GPP standards,
areas in the city to ensure 5G services. It can provide 5G NTN solutions ensure compatibility with mainstream, low-
coverage and capacity in certain venues (e.g.down town cost devices, promoting broader adoption and driving future
areas, stadiums, malls etc.) where data usage is high technological advancements.
and for last-mile connectivity for fixed wireless broadband
Emerging technologies like Supplemental Coverage from
access. It can be used as an Integrated Access Backhaul
Space (SCS) and Direct to Cell (D2C) are part of this
solution that does not rely on fiber to deliver 5G service
transformation. SCS uses satellites to extend the coverage
where fiber backhaul availability is limited. mmWave
of terrestrial mobile networks, while D2C connects standard
solutions can also be used in residential areas to provide
mobile devices, such as smartphones, directly to satellites.
wireless broadband connectivity to indoor residential
In these NTN models, satellites act as virtual cell towers,
users. Another deployment scenario involves industrial
providing coverage in specific geographic areas.
environments, where mmWave 5G is deployed to enable
high-speed and low-latency use cases, including Robotics,
SCS & D2C are forms of NTN, where the satellites act as
Industrial IoT, AR/VR, and more. Given the specific
cell towers, distributing coverage. These can look like IaaS
characteristics of the mmWave, there are various product
(Infrastructure as a Service). The model here is that many
variants in the market today, such as a fully integrated
mobile operators share the satellites to provide coverage
small cell that interfaces with 5G core over nG interfaces,
in their home territory, which is different than sharing on
access units that integrate the baseband and radio into
an existing terrestrial tower. Virtual Cells are created for
one box that interfaces with 5G vCU over F1 interface,
coverage in the home network for MNO. However, the actual
traditional RU which interfaces to digital units over O-RAN
satellite it uses is moving, and the virtual cell is imposed on
open fronthaul interface, etc. The disaggregated Open RAN
satellites that are currently in the right spatial location of
architecture allows the deployment of various types of these
the virtual cell. Other MNOs in other countries will have their
products seamlessly, as these disaggregated RAN functions
own virtual cells.
provide open interfaces defined by 3GPP and/or O-RAN.
The flexibility in the Open RAN architecture enables mobile A virtualized space coverage can be implemented as a
network operators to deploy different categories of products network slice within the home network, with companion
based on the requirements and deployment scenario. support from Earth stations. The RIC would play a key
role in managing these services, integrating value-added
5.4 Non-terrestrial networks
services from the space segment, and ensuring regulatory
Recent advancements in NTN are transforming satellite compliance across different regions.
communications, particularly through the integration of
NTNs with terrestrial networks. This integration offers Overall, the integration of NTNs with Open RAN, along with
seamless connectivity across remote and underserved the deployment of SCS and D2C technologies, is paving
areas, such as oceans and aircraft, by utilizing innovative the way for a new era in satellite communications, offering
3GPP-compliant, cloud-native, and virtualized RAN global connectivity and bridging the digital divide.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 16

6. RAN intelligent controller (RIC)
6.1 Programmability via xApps and rApps for the Open RAN architecture
The integration of Open RAN and cloudification is revolutionizing RAN networks, making them
increasingly software-defined, programmable, and intelligent. This transformation brings
about greater flexibility, platform harmonization, and simplification in RAN architecture. The
O-RAN Alliance plays a pivotal role by defining technical specifications and interfaces for the
RAN’s service management and orchestration (SMO) framework. This framework acts as an
automation platform for managing Open RAN radio resources and is considered a component of
the operational support system (OSS). Within the ETSI-ZSM’s zero-touch service management
framework, the SMO is also recognized as a RAN domain controller. The platform can be
deployed on-premises, in the (telco) cloud, or as a service, catering to diverse end-user needs.

A crucial element of this architecture is the RIC, which addresses the growing complexity of
managing RAN in the era of 5G and beyond. Traditional RAN architectures, with their closed
and monolithic structures, struggle to meet the dynamic demands of modern networks. The RIC
offers a solution, enabling operators to dynamically scale resources, integrate new technologies,
and optimize network performance. It enhances cost efficiency by automating operations,
improving resource management, and integrating open-source components, thereby reducing
both operational and CAPEX. The RIC also utilizes real-time analytics and AI-driven adjustments
to improve traffic handling, reduce latency, and enhance network reliability. Its support for
an open, multi-vendor ecosystem allows operators to integrate best-in-class solutions and
accelerate innovative service deployments.

The SMO framework, in conjunction with the RIC, supports multi-vendor RAN environments by
providing a standardized development and execution environment. It offers platform capabilities
that enable automation applications to manage common use cases for multi-vendor RAN
networks. rApps, interacting with the Non-Real-Time RIC (non-RT RIC) via the R1 interface, and
xApps, communicating with the Near-Real-Time RIC (near-RT RIC) through the A1 interface,
are key components. The non-RT RIC focuses on intelligent RAN optimization in non-real-time,
utilizing policy-based guidance driven by data analytics and AI/ML training/inference. Non-real-
time is defined as automation loops lasting longer than one second. The non-RT RIC leverages
SMO solutions, including data collection and provisioning services for O-RAN nodes. rApps,
which are modular applications, utilize the functionality exposed by the non-RT RIC/SMO
Framework over the R1 interface to perform multi-vendor RAN optimization and assurance.

Figure 2: Logical Architecture of O-RAN (O-RAN.WG1.OAD-R003-v12.0)

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 17

A significant benefit of this open architecture is its potential infrastructure vendors, and academia, highlighted
to attract a diverse range of application developers to the significant advancements and innovations in the RIC
ecosystem. rApps can be developed by any third party, component. The forum featured live demonstrations of
including CSPs and independent developers, offering xApp and rApp applications, providing a glimpse into the
a wide array of applications based on open interfaces future flexibility and performance of 5G networks. The
and platform-agnostic designs. This means rApps can demonstrations confirmed the readiness of RIC applications
operate on any vendor’s non-RT RIC. The non-RT RIC can for commercial deployment and introduced new ideas
access data from various network domains, such as RAN, for dynamic service models and app security verification.
core, transport, and other external data sources, as well Diverse use cases, such as spectrum management and
as data provided or enriched by the rApps themselves. traffic steering, were presented, indicating new dimensions
This comprehensive data access enhances the accuracy of competition and complexity management in the field. The
of correlations and decisions made by the non-RT RIC, forum’s success was marked by the seamless execution of
providing broader visibility and insights into network live demonstrations and active participation in exploring the
performance. potential of RIC applications in real-world scenarios.

The use of rApps, xApps, and their respective open 6.2 Role of near-RT RIC and non-RT RIC
interfaces is expected to foster broader ecosystem
The distinct but complementary roles of near-RT RIC and
engagement, driving innovation and the creation of novel
non-RT RIC in network operations and optimization are:
products tailored to specific needs. Examples of third-party
rApps and xApps that contribute to RAN platform innovation
Near-RT RIC:
include those offered by companies such as Airhop, Cohere,
NEC Aspire Technology, Global Logic, Wipro, and more. • Responsible for fine-grained radio resource
These applications provide insights and capabilities that management (RRM) of the control-plane and user-
plane of the RAN protocol stack at a per-UE level over
transform RAN management and automation.
the E2 interface.

RIC domain has been largely driven by the integration • Typically deployed at the edge of the RAN, controlling
RRM decisions for RAN functions via xApps at near-
of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). real-time granularities, ranging from 10 milliseconds to
Sophisticated AI/ML algorithms are now being used to 1 second.
predict network conditions, optimize resource allocation, • Essential for real-time network optimizations and
and enhance overall network performance. Enhanced adjustments, enabling rapid responses to fluctuating
real-time analytics capabilities allow for proactive network network conditions and user demands.
adjustments and troubleshooting, reducing latency and • Facilitates low-latency services and applications
improving user experience. Automation and orchestration requiring immediate network adaptations.
have also seen substantial progress, with closed-loop and Non-RT RIC:
optimization capabilities enabling the RIC to automatically
• Responsible for setting high-level declarative policies
adjust network parameters for optimal performance without and intents, sending configuration recommendations,
human intervention. Improved end-to-end orchestration and providing use-case-specific prediction/enrichment
facilitates the deployment, management, and scaling of information via rApps to the near-RT RIC over the A1
network functions across multi-vendor environments, interface.
ensuring seamless integration and operation. • Typically hosted within a SMO framework and deployed
in a centralized cloud, responsible for RAN FCAPS
operations and orchestration of platform infrastructure
The development and adoption of standardized APIs have resources.
been pivotal in promoting greater interoperability between
• Supports strategic, long-term network planning and
different RAN components from multiple vendors. This optimization by analyzing historical data, trends, and
push towards standardization is supported by increased patterns.
collaboration among vendors, operators, and standards • Enables network-wide optimizations that do not require
bodies, fostering a more cohesive and innovative immediate responses, focusing on comprehensive
ecosystem. improvements over time.
The integration of both RIC types is crucial for efficient
The 2024 RIC Forum23, which brought together stakeholders and adaptive network management, leveraging immediate
from government, the military, telecommunications responsiveness alongside strategic foresight.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 18

6.3 Key potential use cases
AI/ML-based initial access configuration optimization: Synchronization Signal Bursts (SSB)
are high-overhead, always-on reference signals in large-scale NR networks with thousands of
gNBs. Traditionally, system configurations are statically or manually set to handle worst-case
scenarios, leading to increased overhead, interference, higher network CAPEX, and reduced UE
battery life. This use case proposes an AI/ML-assisted optimization framework within the non-
RT RIC, where AI/ML infers the optimal SSB configuration—minimizing the number of beams,
adjusting directions, and maximizing burst periodicity—to meet KPI targets.

Network slicing: Using RIC for network slicing allows CSPs to perform policy-driven closed-loop
control of RAN slices, monitor slices in near real-time, and track slice performance against
SLAs. RIC helps rectify traffic pattern imbalance across network slices and modify slice
parameter configuration to meet network slice SLAs.

Traffic steering: RIC uses advanced ML algorithms to apply policies based on user and network
data, helping CSPs achieve optimal results by using proactive optimization of traffic steering and
prediction of network conditions. It helps in improving network performance for targeted users
or applications and corrects any performance issues in near-real-time.

Energy efficiency: RIC enables fine-grain control of sleep modes configuration on per O-DU
level to improve energy efficiency. RIC discovers O-RU sleep modes capabilities from DU (via O1
and E2 interface) and provide optimization policies based on data collected for network load,
performance, cell configuration, and energy/power consumption for different sleep modes. RIC
trains ML model on collected data and infers optimized sleep mode, improving energy efficiency

Massive MIMO optimization: RIC helps in optimization of massive MIMO beam forming and
Massive SU/MU-MIMO grouping. Advanced ML techniques used by RIC help in finding site’s
optimal configuration among all the possible system parameters, delivering higher user-
throughput by improving signal power and decreasing interference with massive MIMO beam
forming.

Signaling storm protection: RIC helps monitor the network for signaling storms and applies
policies in near real-time to mitigate any adverse impact. Using RIC for signaling storm
protection boosts network security at the edge, protecting the RAN.

Subscriber QoE optimization: RIC helps optimize RAN resources allocated between users,
considering the QoS requirements for different services. It optimizes QoS by providing fine-grain
control for uplink power per-UE level. RIC collects UE MRs and uplink power configuration and
infers UEs causing interference to compute target uplink power (on target UE and neighboring
UEs) based on target QoS (of target UE).

These use cases highlight the RIC’s potential to drive innovation, improve network performance,
and enhance user experiences in the evolving telecommunications landscape.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 19

7. 6G research work in O-RAN 7.4 RR-2023-05, Spectrum Sharing with
Shared O-RU
The next Generation Research Group (nGRG) is a task force Spectrum is a very limited resource. Shared use of spectrum
within O-RAN ALLIANCE, that focuses on research of open among multiple operators can lead to better utilization of
and intelligent RAN principles in 6G and future network spectrum, resulting in economic benefits for operators and
standards. Current active Research Streams (RS) include users alike. 3GPP standardized RAN sharing requires a very
use cases and requirements, architecture, AI/ML, security, high-level of cooperation among operators with less room
and nG research platforms. The following sections briefly for differentiation. This research paper presents a “neutral
describe the nGRG published Research Reports (RR). host” like deployment of an O-RU that can support shared
use from multiple independent O-DUs accessed dynamically
7.1 RR-2023-01, O-RAN Towards 6G via standardized fronthaul interface. The proposed O-RU
sharing framework is applicable to sharing between
This research report is focused on the 6G use cases spectrum users, including public, private, and government,
and requirements based on the O-RAN survey from the and it is radio technology agnostic.
participating companies. Pervasive AI/ML (in all domains),
SBA, cloud-native, sustainable, open, secure, and modular 7.5 RR-2024-01, O-RAN Cloud-Friendly
are required for the 6G networks, which shall support XR, Future 6G RAN
Holographic communication, mobile robots, drones, and
automatic guided vehicles. Digital Twins and real-time O-RAN Cloud-Friendly Future 6G RAN research report
network optimization are needed for network efficiency and investigates the 6G architecture principles related to cloud
planning. friendliness. The first principle covers principles of energy
performance and sustainability, latency performance,
7.2 RR-2023-02, O-RAN Native AI observability, resiliency, and flexible deployments. The
Architecture Description and RR-2023-03, second principle covers multi-vendor interoperability,
Native and Cross-domain AI: State of the art ways to make 6G RAN protocols more cloud-friendly, and
and future outlook good separation of concerns between network functions
and layers. The third principle is related to automation,
These two research reports discussed about the automated root cause analysis, ZTA, the transition towards
requirements, general principles, and features of native more DevOps, and ways to optimize state handling and
AI architecture of O-RAN, as well as native AI architecture utilize data meshes.
in terms of centralized AI, distributed AI, association
with Digital Twins, AI in RAN, AI in Core Network (CN), There is other research work under review and to be
Management domain, cross-domain AI in elements approved such as “Principle and Methodologies for AI/ML
collaboration and integration, in converged RAN-CN Testing in Next Generation Networks”, “Use Case and Gap
architecture. These are new areas that require research Analysis for Radio Quality Assurance” etc.
to design new interfaces, new protocols, and new cross-
domain AI life cycle management.

7.3 RR-2023-04, Quantum Security

Quantum computing is set to change the dynamics of
computing and communications in the next decade. NIST
started the process of the Post Quantum Cryptography
(PQC) standard in 2017 and announced four algorithms
of PQC candidates in 2022. The research report provides
a rough classification of the various threats based on risk/
impact profile and potential mitigation techniques using
PQC, which serves as a reference to guide further research.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 20

Summary
The Open RAN industry is undergoing a significant transformation from closed, monolithic
architectures to open, interoperable systems. Industry bodies like the O-RAN ALLIANCE are
driving this evolution, continuously updating specifications and promoting interoperability.
This paper, based on documentation available as of October 2024, provides a comprehensive
overview of the latest developments in the Open RAN ecosystem, including architecture,
specifications, and use cases.

This paper describes how the Open RAN initiative now involves many stakeholders, from a
growing number of countries, including government bodies, industry alliances, and operators.
The ecosystem ensures robust infrastructure and interoperability. The O-RAN ALLIANCE, in
partnership with ETSI, is working to standardize specifications, thereby enhancing global
adoption. U.S. government initiatives, such as the Wireless Innovation Fund, also support Open
RAN testing and deployment, driving innovation and secure, high-performing networks.

The paper highlights the large-scale greenfield deployments of Open RAN, such as the one
by DISH Network in the U.S., and the growing focus on brownfield deployments in regions like
Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America. Brownfield deployments integrate Open RAN into
existing networks, leveraging cloud infrastructure and automation tools to enhance operational
efficiency. This approach allows for modular upgrades, reducing costs and complexity.

Recent updates in Open RAN specifications are described including enhanced NES, DMRS-
based beamforming and security. NES features are detailed, including cell/carrier switch on/
off, RF channel switch on/off, and advanced sleep modes to reduce power consumption. The
enhancements offered by DMRS-based beamforming are described, leading to improvements in
uplink performance when fronthaul bandwidth is constrained and improved fronthaul bandwidth
efficiency. Security updates emphasize a ZTA and MACsec for fronthaul protection.

The paper also explores various use cases for Open RAN, including cloud automation, high-
performance compute acceleration, mmWave, and NTN.

The RIC plays a crucial role in enhancing Open RAN networks by enabling programmability
and automation through xApps and rApps. The paper builds on earlier 5G Americas technical
papers, describing RIC use cases including AI/ML-based initial access configuration, network
slicing, traffic steering, energy efficiency, massive MIMO optimization, signaling storm protection,
and subscriber QoE optimization.

Finally, looking ahead, the paper concludes with a review of the output from the O-RAN
Alliance’s next Generation Research Group (nGRG), which focuses on research of open and
intelligent RAN principles in 6G and future network standards. This forward-looking research
aims to further revolutionize the telecommunications landscape, ensuring that Open RAN
remains at the forefront of technological innovation.

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 21

Appendix
Appendix A: Acronyms

3GPP: Third Generation Partnership GEO: Geostationary Earth Orbit

ACCoRD: Acceleration of Compatibility and GEO: Geosynchronous Earth Orbit

Commercialization for Open RAN Deployments
GPP: General Purpose Processor
AI: Artificial Intelligence
GPU: Graphical Processing Unit
AI/ML: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
IaaS: Infrastructure as a Service
AR: Augmented Reality
IoT: Internet of Things
ARIB: Association of Radio Industries and Businesses
IPR: Intellectual Property Rights
ASIC: Application-Specific Integrated Circuits IT: Information Technology
BT: British Telecom KPI: Key Performance Indicators
BWP: Bandwidth Part LAN: Local Area Network
CA: Carrier Aggregation LDPC: Low-density parity-check
CAPEX: Capital Expenditures LPWAN: Low power wide area network
CBRS: Citizens Broadband Radio Service Massive MIMO: Massive Multiple Input and Multiple
Output
CCSA: China Communications Standards Association
MIMO: Multiple Input Multiple Output
CIBF: Channel Information-based Beamforming
ML: Machine Learning
CN: Core Network
MNO: Mobile Network Operator
COTS: Commercial Off-The-Shelf
MSG: Mobile Standards Group
CPU: Central Processing Unit
MU-MIMO: Multiple User Multiple Input Multiple Output
CSP: Communication Service Providers
NES: Network Energy Saving
CTIA: Cellular Telephone Industry Association
NextG: Next Generation
CU: Central unit
NF: Network Function
DAS: Distributed Antenna System
NIST: National Institute of Standards and Technology
DCI: Downlink Control Information
NOFO: Notice of Funding Opportunity
DL: Down Link
NR: New Radio
DMRS: Demodulation Reference Signal
NR/gNB: New Radio 5G
DU: Distributed Unit
NTIA: National Telecommunications and Information
ES: Energy Saving Administration

ETSI: European Telecommunications Standards Institute NTN: Non-terrestrial network

FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Arrays OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 22

OIA: Office of International Affairs SBOM: Software Bill of Materials

OPEX: Operational Expenditures SCS: Supplemental Coverage from Space

O-RAN: Open Radio Access Network SDL: Supplementary Downlink

SDO: Standards Development Organization

OSS: Operational Support System
SI: Self-Interference
OT: Operational Technology
SIM: Subscriber Identity Module
OTIC: Open Testing and Integration Center
SLA: Service Level Agreement
PAS: Publicly Available Specification
SMO: Service Management and Orchestration
PDCCH: Physical Downlink Control Channel
SRS: Sounding Reference Signal
PDSCH: Physical Downlink Data Channel
SSB: Synchronization Signal Block
PQC: Post Quantum Cryptography SUL: Supplementary Uplink
QoE: Quality of Experience TRX: Transmitter/Receiver

QoS: Quality of Service TSDSI: Telecommunications Standards Development

Society, India
RA: Random Access
TTA: Telecommunications Technology Association
RAN: Radio Access Network
TTC: Telecommunications Technology Committee
RedCap: Reduced Capability
U.S.: United States
RF: Radio Frequency
UE: User Equipment
RIC: RAN Intelligent Controller
UE: User Entity
RR: Research Reports UL: Up Link
RRH: Remote Radio Head ULPI: Up Link Performance Improvement

RRM: Radio Resource Management URLLC: Ultra Reliable Low-Latency Communications

RRU: Remote Radio Unit VR: Virtual Reality

RS: Research Streams vRAN: Virtualized RAN

RTT: Round Trip Time WDBF: Weight Based Dynamic Beamforming

WIF: Wireless Innovation Fund

RU: Radio Unit
XR: eXtended Reality
RU: Remote Units
YANG: Yet Another Next Generation – data modeling
RX: Radio Receiver language
SAS: Spectrum Access Server ZTA: Zero trust architecture

SBA: Service Based Architecture ZTMM: Zero Trust Maturity Model

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 23

Acknowledgments
5G Americas’ Mission Statement: 5G Americas facilitates and advocates for the advancement
of 5G and beyond toward 6G throughout the Americas.

5G Americas’ Board of Governors members include Airspan Networks, Antel, AT&T, Ciena, Cisco,
Crown Castle, Ericsson, Liberty Latin America, Mavenir, Nokia, Qualcomm Incorporated, Rogers
Communications, Samsung, T-Mobile USA, Inc., and Telefónica.

5G Americas would like to recognize the significant project leadership and important
contributions of group leader Mark Grayson, Cisco, Gaurav Sehgal, Mavenir, and Sanil
Ramachandran, Samsung along with many representatives from member companies on 5G
Americas’ Board of Governors who participated in the development of this white paper.

The contents of this document reflect the research, analysis, and conclusions of 5G Americas
and may not necessarily represent the comprehensive opinions and individual viewpoints of
each particular 5G Americas member company. 5G Americas provides this document and
the information contained herein for informational purposes only, for use at your sole risk. 5G
Americas assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in this document. This document
is subject to revision or removal at any time without notice. No representations or warranties
(whether expressed or implied) are made by 5G Americas and 5G Americas is not liable for and
hereby disclaims any direct, indirect, punitive, special, incidental, consequential, or exemplary
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contained in this document.

© Copyright 2024 5G Americas

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 24

References
1 https://www.o-ran.org/specifications

2 ETSI TS 103 859, https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_ts/103800_103899/103859/07.00.02_60/ts_103859v070002p.pdf

3 https://www.o-ran.org/blog/seven-o-ran-alliance-specifications-newly-adopted-as-etsi-specifications

4 https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_ts/103800_103899/103859/12.00.01_60/ts_103859v120001p.pdf

5 https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_ts/104000_104099/104023/12.00.01_60/ts_104023v120001p.pdf

6 https://www.ntia.gov/program/innovation-fund/grant-programs/round-1-2023/program-documentation/nofo-1

7 https://www.orcid.us/home

8 https://www.ntia.gov/press-release/2024/biden-harris-administration-awards-42m-wireless-innovation

9 https://about.att.com/story/2023/commercial-scale-open-radio-access-network.html

10 https://www.samsung.com/global/business/networks/insights/press-release/0125-kddi-starts-commercial-deployment-of-5g-
open-vran-sites-in-japan-in-collaboration-with-samsung-electronics-and-fujitsu-limited/)

11 https://news.samsung.com/global/o2-telefonica-and-samsung-launch-vran-and-open-ran-network-in-germany

12 https://www.mavenir.com/press-releases/solutions-by-stc-signs-an-open-ran-agreement-with-mavenir-to-launch-first-commercial-
open-ran-in-saudi-arabia/

13 https://www.telefonica.de/news/press-releases-telefonica-germany/2024/02/open-ran-in-germany-o2-telefonica-and-ericsson-
launch-first-cloud-ran-implementation-in-europe.html

14 https://www.verizon.com/about/news/verizon-advances-o-ran-technology

15 https:/www.mavenir.com/press-releases/virgin-media-o2-selects-mavenir-for-its-open-ran-deployment

16 https://www.vodafone.com/news/technology/vodafone-starts-rollout-of-commercial-open-ran-in-romania

17 https://www.samsung.com/global/business/networks/insights/press-release/
vodafone_and_samsung_begin_mass_open_ran_rollout_across_the_united_kingdom/

18 https://www.mavenir.com/press-releases/mavenir-in-commercial-phase-of-open-ran-ahead-of-large-scale-deployment-for-indias-
vodafone-idea/

19 https://mediastorage.o-ran.org/white-papers/O-RAN.WG11.ZTA%20for%20Secure%20O-RAN%20White%20Paper-2024-05.pdf

20 https://specifications.o-ran.org/download?id=704

21 https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8585421

22 https://www.5gamericas.org/spectrum-sharing-challenges-opportunities-briefing-paper/

23 https://mediastorage.o-ran.org/ecosystem-resources/Open%20RAN%20Ecosystem%20Mapping%20Crowd-sourced%20by%20
Mavenir.pdf

24 O-RAN Map

25 https://its.ntia.gov/research/5g/2024-ric-forum

Trends and Developments in Open RAN 25