The Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) concept represents a major shift in how Radio Access Networks (RAN) are designed and deployed. Traditionally, RAN architectures have been closed systems, where hardware and software are tightly integrated, supplied by a single vendor. This created limitations in flexibility, innovation, and cost. ORAN, on the other hand, promotes open interfaces, interoperability, and multi-vendor ecosystems, thus fostering greater innovation and competition.
A crucial component of the ORAN architecture is the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC). It plays a central role in bringing intelligence, optimization, and programmability to the RAN. In a nutshell, the RIC is responsible for controlling and managing the RAN elements dynamically, using AI/ML-driven policies and algorithms to optimize network performance.
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