What you’ll learn:
- O-RAN is more than just open interfaces, encompassing a comprehensive approach to network flexibility, virtualization, and cost-efficiency.
- O-RAN’s practical applications and its current deployment status.
- O-RAN balances performance with flexibility, avoids vendor lock-in, and integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure.
As the telecommunications industry rapidly evolves, the open radio access network (O-RAN) architecture is revolutionary for building more flexible, interoperable, and cost-effective networks. However, with its rise, several misconceptions and myths have also surfaced, leading to confusion and skepticism within the industry. This article aims to debunk 11 common myths about O-RAN, clarifying what O-RAN truly offers and how it shapes the future of cellular networks.
1. O-RAN is only about Open RAN interfaces.
While the concept of open interfaces is central to O-RAN, the initiative is about much more. O-RAN is focused on creating a more innovative, more efficient radio access network (RAN) that leverages virtualization and artificial intelligence to optimize network performance.
By virtualizing network components, O-RAN enables operators to dynamically allocate resources, improve efficiency, and reduce operational costs. Moreover, the support for white-box hardware encourages a multi-vendor ecosystem, fostering innovation and enabling more competitive pricing. O-RAN isn’t just about open interfaces, it also involves transforming how networks are built and operated.
2. O-RAN is limited to current 5G networks.
O-RAN isn’t confined to the present-day 5G networks; it’s designed with a forward-looking approach. The architecture is built to evolve alongside advances such as 5G Advanced (Release 18) and future network standards.
O-RAN’s flexible and modular design enables it to adapt to new technologies and use cases, ensuring it remains relevant as networks evolve. This future-proofing aspect of O-RAN makes it a strategic investment for operators looking to stay ahead of the rapidly changing telecommunications landscape.
3. O-RAN’s flexibility comes at the cost of performance.
A common misconception is that the flexibility offered by O-RAN sacrifices network performance. O-RAN’s 7-2x split is specifically designed to balance flexibility with high performance. By carefully distributing the physical-layer (PHY) processing between the distributed unit (DU) and the radio unit (RU), O-RAN reduces traffic between these components while maintaining the low latency required for optimal performance. This split allows O-RAN to cater to diverse deployment scenarios without compromising speed or efficiency, making it a powerful solution for modern network demands.
4. Vendor lock-in is inevitable with O-RAN.
One of the primary goals of O-RAN is to eliminate vendor lock-in by promoting multi-vendor interoperability. Traditional RAN systems often lock operators into using equipment from a single vendor due to proprietary interfaces.
O-RAN addresses this issue by standardizing interfaces such as the fronthaul (FH) interface between the DU and RU, enabling operators to mix and match hardware from different vendors. This approach fosters competition and makes it possible for operators to choose the best solutions for their specific needs, breaking free from the constraints of single-vendor systems.
5. All RAN splits are created equal.
Not all RAN splits are the same, and O-RAN’s 7-2x split stands out for its strategic advantages. This split option optimizes deployment speed and cost-effectiveness, making it ideal for quickly bringing new technology to market.
The 7-2x split offers a clear path to improved traffic management and network efficiency by reducing confusion over split specifics and streamlining the processing distribution. O-RAN’s approach is particularly suitable for operators looking to balance the need for innovation with practical deployment considerations.
6. O-RAN isn’t ready for real-world deployment.
Contrary to the belief that O-RAN is still conceptual, the architecture is already implemented in real-world deployments. Companies are actively building O-RAN-compliant hardware, and comprehensive validation and production test solutions are available to ensure that these components meet industry standards.
For example, NI offers testing solutions that accelerate the development and deployment of O-RAN-compliant RUs, helping operators bring new technology to market faster. O-RAN isn’t just a theory, but rather it’s a practical solution rapidly gaining traction in the industry.
7. O-RAN complicates network testing.
While O-RAN introduces new testing challenges, it also provides robust frameworks and tools to simplify the process. Interoperability testing is a focus of the O-RAN Alliance, ensuring that components from different vendors can work together seamlessly.
Testing tools have been developed to validate designs and assure that units perform as expected during validation and production stages. These advances make O-RAN testing manageable and essential for guaranteeing the reliability and performance of the network.
8. Only large vendors can innovate within O-RAN.
O-RAN’s open ecosystem encourages innovation from all players, including smaller companies that traditionally haven’t provided network hardware. By standardizing interfaces and promoting interoperability, O-RAN levels the playing field, enabling smaller vendors to compete with established giants. This inclusivity leads to a more vibrant market where diverse solutions can emerge, ultimately driving down costs and fostering creativity in network design and implementation.
9. Open interfaces compromise security.
There’s a misconception that open interfaces inherently reduce security, but O-RAN’s standardized interfaces are designed with security as a priority. The O-RAN Alliance is actively working on defining security measures that promote the integrity and safety of the network, even in a multivendor environment.
By establishing clear protocols and guidelines, O-RAN makes sure that openness doesn’t come at the expense of network security, allowing operators to benefit from the flexibility of open interfaces without compromising protection.
10. O-RAN requires a complete overhaul of existing infrastructure.
Implementing O-RAN doesn’t necessitate a total overhaul of current infrastructure. The architecture is designed to integrate with existing systems, making it possible for operators to adopt O-RAN in a phased manner. This approach minimizes disruption and allows for gradual integration with systems like the evolved Common Public Radio Interface (eCPRI).
By offering compatibility with existing networks, O-RAN enables operators to upgrade their infrastructure incrementally, reducing cost and risk.
11. O-RAN is just a concept, not a practical solution.
O-RAN is far more than a theoretical concept—it’s a practical, evolving solution already being developed, tested, and deployed in the real world. The O-RAN Alliance is actively working on implementing new interfaces and creating standards for widespread adoption. With companies like NI and Spirent providing the necessary tools for real-world deployment and validation, O-RAN is set to play a crucial role in the future of 5G networks and beyond.
O-RAN represents a significant shift in how telecommunications networks are designed and operated, challenging many traditional network architectures and performance assumptions. By debunking these myths, it becomes clear that O-RAN is viable and essential for the future of 5G and beyond.
Companies like NI are at the forefront of this evolution, providing the necessary tools and expertise to ensure that O-RAN-compliant hardware meets the highest performance, interoperability, and security standards. As O-RAN continues to gain traction, it will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of telecommunications networks.
