As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time for our annual tradition of highlighting the most-viewed posts of the year. This list includes posts that garnered the most attention, regardless of when they were originally published. For clarity, I’ve included the month and year of publication for each.
Interestingly, none of the top five posts were published in 2024! So, I’ve also added a bonus section showcasing the top three posts actually published this year.
As mobile networks evolve, virtualized RAN (vRAN) and Open RAN architectures are gaining traction. Even operators who were initially sceptical are increasingly exploring and deploying these innovative solutions to meet the growing demands for flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability. Samsung, among other key players, has been at the forefront of large-scale vRAN and Open RAN rollouts across North America, Europe, and Asia.
The adoption of O-RAN-compliant, Open vRAN architectures has demonstrated the potential to deliver performance on par with—or even superior to—traditional RAN systems. While trials and commercial deployments have validated their capabilities, scaling these solutions introduces challenges, such as integration complexities, security concerns, and organizational disruptions. To address these hurdles, operators and vendors alike are focusing on building robust ecosystems, fostering collaboration, and driving continuous innovation.
As adoption expands, operators are reaping an array of benefits from vRAN and Open RAN architectures:
Faster site activations: Accelerated deployment timelines facilitate quicker service rollouts.
— Samsung Networks (@SamsungNetworks) June 4, 2024
Vendors and partners are tackling the complexities of scaling vRAN and Open RAN through collaborative efforts, with Samsung introducing several solutions to improve performance and address integration challenges:
Containerized Virtual Cell Site Router (vCSR): The integration of vCSR within the virtual Distributed Unit (vDU) minimizes hardware requirements by utilizing server processing power more efficiently.
Energy-saving features: AI-powered tools like Samsung’s Energy Saving Manager (ESM) enable traffic-aware adjustments, such as dynamic power amplifier (DPA) levels, sleep modes for radio units, and CPU power optimization, demonstrating significant energy reductions in large-scale deployments.
AI/ML-powered automation: Comprehensive platforms, such as Samsung’s CognitiV Network Operations Suite (NOS), incorporate advanced analytics and automation, enhancing network optimization, troubleshooting, and reducing total cost of ownership (TCO).
The transition to Open vRAN is not just a technological evolution but a paradigm shift in network architecture. These systems prioritize flexibility and programmability, empowering operators to achieve business objectives that extend beyond cost savings, including faster service rollouts, better customer experiences, and improved energy efficiency.
While Samsung’s contributions in this domain are notable, the larger industry trend toward open and virtualized networks reflects a collective push to shape the future of mobile connectivity. Collaboration across the ecosystem is essential to address challenges and unlock the full potential of these transformative technologies.
Embedded below are some nice explainers and presentations on Open vRAN from Samsung:
As the industry continues to evolve, vRAN and Open RAN are set to play a pivotal role in driving the next wave of 5G innovation and growth.
Earlier in the year we wrote about Deutsche Telekom's Mini-Mast a.k.a. “Cell Tower To Go”. Last year, DT set a new benchmark in sustainable technology with the deployment of hydrogen-powered antennas at the Nibirii Festival in Germany. This initiative replaced the traditional diesel generators with hydrogen fuel cells to provide eco-friendly energy for mobile base stations. The hydrogen is sourced in a CO₂-neutral process, marking a significant step towards green innovation.
For anyone who doesn't understand what hydrogen fuel cell is, this video has a good explanation.
At the festival, a hydrogen-powered mast supported 30,000 attendees with seamless LTE and 5G connectivity. The fuel cells, developed by SFC Energy, ensured reliable, uninterrupted service for 28 days, showcasing their potential for large events, emergencies, and remote areas. This shift underscores Deutsche Telekom's commitment to combining sustainability with technological advancements.
Additionally, compact mobile masts and stage-mounted small cells enhanced coverage and user experience. These innovations promise to redefine mobile connectivity, emphasizing rapid deployment and reduced environmental impact.
