With the promise of massively increased speed and capacity, there is a lot riding on the success of next-generation 5G technology. To be more accurate, one might say there is a lot riding on the 5G transport network specifically, given the critical role that transport will play in enabling high-bandwidth, ultra-reliable and ultra-low latency applications for 5G.
As communication service providers (CSPs) urgently plan their commercial 5G deployments, the most important first step is mapping out the backhaul, fronthaul and midhaul transport architectures to ensure the best possible customer experience. In order to gain valuable insight into the current and future state of 5G transport, Fujitsu partnered with analyst firm Heavy Reading to conduct an in-depth survey of CSPs from around the world. Here are just a few noteworthy findings from this comprehensive 5G research.
5G is open for business —Survey results clearly indicate interest in moving toward open interoperability with 5G. A large majority of respondents reported that RAN interoperability between radio unit (RU) and baseband unit (BBU) equipment was at least “very important” to them, with a sizeable number citing RAN interoperability as a “critical” requirement.
Appetite for bandwidth —According to the survey, the need for more capacity is the primary driver behind the desire to upgrade midhaul and backhaul networks. In fact, nearly 30% more respondents cited capacity versus those that selected latency, the second highest response.
A central theme —Although some CSPs adopted centralized RAN (C-RAN) with advanced 4G, for most operators this approach means transitioning to a completely new architecture for 5G. Despite the challenge that represents, survey results show growing interest in RAN centralization across a number of regions.
When do we want it — To meet expectations for commercial 5G services, CSPs will first need to have a robust transport network in place. When asked in what timeframe they will begin launching 5G, more than 50% of respondents said they expect to launch initial mass-market services by 2020. To learn more about the state of 5G transport, click here to download a complimentary copy of the 2019 Heavy Reading Survey: “Operator Strategies for 5G Transport.”
