Open Radio Access Networks: A Primer for Policymakers

Open Radio Access Networks (Open RANs) would define open standards and interfaces between components of wireless RANs, providing a unique opportunity to diversify the supply chain by separating today’s integrated, single-provider RAN systems into modular parts. This report by the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation provides the history of Open RAN, the technology's benefits and challenges, and recommendations for policymakers. The key takeaways are:

• Open RAN is a concept that encourages interoperable interfaces among various RAN components (the distributed unit, centralized unit, radio unit, etc.), so a range of vendors can provide components for different parts of the network.
• Open RAN will help telecommunications providers tackle market challenges such as a lack of supplier diversity, a reliance on one specific vendor, and the black-box nature of RAN hardware.
• Open RAN offers an important component of a potential solution that counters growing security concerns associated with Chinese telecom equipment maker Huawei.
• Many questions remain unanswered as Open RAN begins to enter the wireless market. Until answers are clear and unchallenged, policymakers should remain skeptical of throwing all resources toward Open RAN deployment.
• To support the future of Open RAN, the United States needs to support an effective transition to an open and disaggregated wireless infrastructure with continued investment and innovation—not market interference to force a premature transition.