How to Get Away with OpenAirInterface: A practical Guide to 5G RAN Configuration

Abstract

In contrast to legacy 5G RAN solutions, Open-RAN and especially open-source RAN projects provide enhanced configuration possibilities. This enables an operator to tailor the network more specific to its needs. At the same time, this complicates the process of setting up the network, since this configuration requires more in-depth understanding of 5G. There is a gap between the 3GPP specifications, representing the theoretical aspects and the actual deployment of a 3GPP compliant network. Therefore, we present a novel explanation drawing the link between these specifications and a practical open-source 5G network, using OpenAirInterface. We further illustrate the operability of the network in different configurations with commercial UEs, by applying the presented relations.