o2 Telefónica has launched its first Cloud RAN network with Ericsson technology. This is the first implementation of Ericsson Cloud RAN in a commercial 5G standalone network worldwide. The first of a total of eight mobile phone masts in the Offenbach area are now using the technology from the European network equipment provider. With the Cloud RAN network architecture, telecommunications providers use virtualized components for the antenna network (Radio Access Network, RAN). 5G is available for mobile data use in Offenbach for customers of o2 Telefónica. Together with Ericsson, o2 Telefónica wants to actively promote the development of open and interoperable mobile networks.
“We are working on our network of the future that combines the advantages of cloud, automation and virtualization to offer our customers the best experience. One building block for this is Cloud RAN technology, which we want to further advance to market maturity together with Ericsson. The separation of hardware and software will enable us to be more flexible in the future when operating and expanding our network. In addition to leaner network architectures, we can install updates at the click of a mouse, so that customers and companies always benefit from the latest 5G functions,” says Mallik Rao, Chief Technology & Enterprise Officer at o2 Telefónica.
“We support o2 Telefónica in transforming its network into a high-performance, programmable, and differentiated network infrastructure. The launch of the Cloud RAN sites marks a milestone in our joint journey toward open network architectures and fosters a dynamic innovation ecosystem. Our long-standing partnership with o2 Telefónica is a key driver of this development,” says Daniel Leimbach, Head of Customer Unit Western Europe at Ericsson.
From traditional RAN to Cloud RAN
The starting signal for the Cloud RAN test in Offenbach was given in spring 2024, when the two companies agreed to work together to build a network. In a first step, o2 Telefónica installed Ericsson’s traditional RAN technology with 5G and 4G/LTE at the mobile network sites in Offenbach.
The network technicians then successively replaced the classical 5G technology with the new Cloud RAN technology. This involves the use of 5G – also known as 5G standalone (SA) or 5G Plus – at the 3.6 gigahertz frequency.
Separation of hardware and software creates flexibility
While telecommunications providers use proprietary hardware and software in the traditional RAN, the Cloud RAN allows the vendor’s software to be installed on standard commercial hardware. This makes the system more flexible, scalable and adaptable than previous, tightly coupled systems.
o2 Telefónica and Ericsson will test the suitability of Cloud RAN technology for everyday use and further develop the technology.
Info box:
The introduction of Cloud RAN represents an important step in the further development of the network, which is expected to offer a wide range of advantages and new opportunities for network operators, companies and end users in the future:
- Scalability: Network operators can dynamically adjust resources – for example, provide more capacity in densely populated areas or introduce new features faster.
- Centralized control: Software updates or maintenance can be carried out centrally. This saves time and resources.
- Faster market launch of new services: Network operators can provide innovative services such as private 5G networks or specialized network solutions for companies more easily and quickly.
- Attractiveness for business customers: Companies can access network resources specifically designed and tailored to their needs, which is particularly important for the digitalization of production processes.
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