Understanding O-RAN: Architecture, Interfaces, Algorithms, Security, and Research Challenges

The Open Radio Access Network (RAN) and its embodiment through the O-RAN Alliance specifications are poised to revolutionize the telecom ecosystem. O-RAN promotes virtualized RANs where disaggregated components are connected via open interfaces and optimized by intelligent controllers. The result is a new paradigm for the RAN design, deployment, and operations: O-RAN networks can be built with multivendor, interoperable components, and can be programmatically optimized through a centralized abstraction layer and datadriven closed-loop control. Therefore, understanding O-RAN, its architecture, its interfaces, and workflows is key for researchers and practitioners in the wireless community. In this article, we…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Awards: CNS-1923789, CNS-2112471
• OO
  Office of Naval Research

  Awards: N00014-20-1-2132, N00014