Next-generation networks: Necessity of edge sharing

Abstract

Resource sharing is fundamental to the design of telecommunication networks. The technology, economic and policy forces shaping the transition to next-generation digital networking infrastructure—characterized here as “5G+” (for 5G and beyond)—make new and evolved forms of edge sharing a necessity. Despite this necessity, most of the economic and policy research on Network Sharing Agreements (NSAs) has focused on sharing among service providers offering retail services via networks owned and operated by legacy fixed and mobile network operators (MNOs). In this essay, we make the case for why increased and more dynamic options for sharing, in particular of end-user owned network infrastructure, should be embraced for the future of NSAs. Furthermore, we explain how such a novel sharing paradigm must be matched by appropriate regulatory policies.

Virtualised and Open RAN Role in Overhaul of Mobile Network Sharing Regulation in Europe for 5G Rollout

“…(Bouras et al, 2016). Lehr expects cost savings from Network Function Virtualisation, as NFV allows avoiding the unit costs of supporting functions per locations, and supports scalable capacity expansion to meet easily to aggregate demand (Lehr & Stocker, 2023). Virtualized network aims to put the functionality (NFV) of customized equipment into software programs that run on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware or in the cloud.…”

Techno-economic assessment of 5G infrastructure sharing business models in rural areas

“…Slicing technology can support the deployment of shared neutral host networks (NHN) where multiple tenants/operators can co-exist on the same physical network but different virtual networks (Gomes et al, 2021). The survey on the need for sharing the telecommunication infrastructure, especially at the edge is explored in Lehr and Stocker (2023). This research brings out the need for supportive policies for end-user infrastructure sharing, especially to meet 5G performance requirements.…”