As leaders in cloud and virtualization, we take our role fostering the RAN transformation very seriously. From helping to drive standardization to reduce fragmentation and developing open solutions to drive competitive efficiencies, to working with our customers to learn to thrive in a software world, VMware is a true transformation partner. Today, we are releasing a new tool to further enable our communication service provider (CSP) partners that are looking to adopt open approaches in the radio access networks.
The RAN Transformation Learning Library will help CSPs around the world explore to challenges, opportunities, and considerations of the open RAN transformation.
There is a lot to learn about how a cloud-smart, open approach will enable RAN modernization. That’s why VMware and our partners have collected learnings from PoCs, trials, and early deployments to provide a library of videos that break down this complex transformation – from technology to operational adjustments.
What will you find?
Chapter 1. Transformation Imperatives
As the industry works to move beyond the limitations of legacy RAN, this chapter of videos will allow you to explore the imperatives CSP should keep in mind as they modernize their RAN networks. Not only will you explore why RAN is changing but you’ll get a closer look at the importance of software-defined RAN, use cases of modern RAN, and the value of open approaches.
Chapter 2. Components of an Agile RAN
As RAN networks transform to enable new capabilities, they will require new components. From the RIC to the xApps, disaggregating the RAN will bring cloud agility to next-generation networks. In this chapter, discover Distributed (DU) and Central Units (CU), RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), horizontal platforms and xApps & rAPPs.
Chapter 3. Transformation Journey
The RAN transformation is significant. While there is no straight line to an open, agile RAN, there are steps along the way which can accelerate the journey for service providers. You will find information about challenges in RAN’s path to the cloud, journey to open RAN, VM vs. bare metal considerations, internal operational changes, political influences, and more.
Chapter 4. Unifying the RAN
Legacy network silos will encumber the ability to deliver 5G and beyond. As service providers approach their RAN transformation, ensuring they don’t build another network silo is a priority. In this chapter, learn about the capabilities of common multi-cloud platforms, automation for RAN, and Service Management Orchestration (SMO).
Chapter 5. Future of the RAN
The communications industry advances quickly. As generations of wireless technologies develop, society will adapt and continue to drive more innovation. This proliferation of distributed services will require a flexible, performant, and secure RAN network. Discover in this chapter about applications of the future, community-driven networks & O-RAN maturity, the path to 6G, and more.
Please explore and share this tool. Have a partner who should be contributing? Reach out and tell us about it.
