By definition, 5G core networks are virtualized, and therefore separate network functions in software from the hardware and appliances they run on. That, in turn, opens the door to “open” approaches to infrastructure, a necessary but insufficient condition for open approaches to radio access, for example.
Suppliers can offer network elements and systems that are compliant with open radio access network protocols and standards, but operating in a single-vendor deployment, for example. As often is the case, mobile operators might spot deploy O-RAN, using it to support small cells or in front hauled radio heads only, at first. As comfort levels grow, O-RAN would then be used in all parts of the network.
There is room for skepticism about how soon O-RAN sales volumes will become significant. By the time comfort levels are high, some major buyers will have installed the great bulk of their 5G networks. So O-RAN will be driven, by volume, by later adopters.
On the other hand, this tends to be true of all big technology transitions: later adopters can make choices earlier adopters cannot.
Still, analysts now believe O-RAN will succeed in the marketplace.
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