Overview
Cloud-Radio Access Network (Cloud RAN) technology is dynamically evolving as the next generation of wireless RAN implementation. It provides cloud-native, flexible, and disaggregated architecture providing scalability and streamlining network management through standardized operations [1].
As part of Rogers’ wireless network evolution strategy, Rogers has been collaborating with our partner vendor on the Open RAN technology evolution based on a Cloud RAN solution. Rogers Communications successfully trialed 5G Cloud RAN technology based on separated Centralized Unit (CU) and Distributed Unit (DU) architecture over a commercial network at a live event in Canada in 2024 [2, 3]. In February 2025, another milestone was achieved with the 5G Cloud RAN successful trial based on a combined CU and DU architecture in a live network followed by the trial of Next Generation Open Lower Layer Split (NG-OLLS) interface (i.e. Open Fronthaul) in April 2025.
