5G Network Sharing: Concept, Benefits and Architectures

Concept of 5G Network Sharing:

5G network sharing refers to the practice of multiple mobile network operators (MNOs) or service providers sharing a common infrastructure to deploy and operate their 5G networks. This sharing can occur at various levels, including radio access network (RAN), core network, and spectrum resources. The goal is to optimize resource utilization, reduce costs, and accelerate the deployment of 5G services.

Types of 5G Network Sharing:

1. RAN Sharing:
   • Description: In RAN sharing, multiple operators share the same radio access infrastructure, including antennas, base stations, and related equipment.
   • Benefits: It reduces the need for each operator to deploy and maintain separate RANs, leading to cost savings and more efficient use of resources.
   • Challenges: Operators must coordinate on network planning, capacity allocation, and interference management.
2. Core Network Sharing:
   • Description: Core network sharing involves sharing the core network elements, such as the evolved packet core (EPC) and 5G core (5GC).
   • Benefits: Enables operators to share the backend infrastructure, leading to reduced capital and operational expenditures.
   • Challenges: Operators need to address issues related to data security, privacy, and regulatory compliance.
3. Spectrum Sharing:
   • Description: Spectrum sharing involves multiple operators using the same frequency spectrum to provide their 5G services.
   • Benefits: Maximizes spectrum efficiency and allows operators to leverage a common set of frequencies.
   • Challenges: Coordination is required to avoid interference, and regulatory approval is necessary for spectrum sharing arrangements.

Benefits of 5G Network Sharing:

1. Cost Efficiency:
   • Shared infrastructure reduces the capital and operational expenses associated with deploying and maintaining individual networks.
2. Faster Deployment:
   • Network sharing accelerates the deployment of 5G services as operators can leverage existing infrastructure, reducing the time required for new deployments.
3. Resource Optimization:
   • Efficient use of resources, such as spectrum and network equipment, leads to better overall network performance and capacity.
4. Improved Coverage:
   • Operators can collectively extend coverage to underserved or rural areas by sharing infrastructure, enhancing the overall network footprint.
5. Environmental Impact:
   • Shared networks contribute to reduced energy consumption and a smaller environmental footprint compared to individual, redundant deployments.

Architectures of 5G Network Sharing:

1. Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN):
   • Operators share the core network while maintaining separate RANs. This allows independent RAN planning and optimization.
2. RAN-as-a-Service (RaaS):
   • Infrastructure providers offer RAN services on a shared basis, allowing operators to use RAN resources as a service.
3. Neutral Host Networks:
   • Infrastructure is owned and operated by neutral hosts, providing connectivity services to multiple operators. This is common in venues like stadiums and airports.
4. Spectrum Sharing Frameworks:
   • Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) and Licensed Shared Access (LSA) are examples of spectrum sharing frameworks that enable multiple operators to use the same frequency bands efficiently.
5. Cloud-RAN (C-RAN):
   • Centralized processing resources are shared among multiple operators, allowing for more efficient RAN deployment and management.

5G network sharing is a strategic approach to address the challenges of 5G deployment, offering benefits such as cost savings, faster deployment, and improved resource utilization. The choice of sharing architecture depends on the specific requirements and agreements among the participating operators.