Juniper Networks, Vodafone and Parallel Wireless collaborate on OpenRAN RIC trial

Juniper Networks has launched a multivendor RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) trial for tenant-aware admission control use cases in Turkey, working with Vodafone and Parallel Wireless.

The OpenRAN trial is being conducted in Vodafone’s test labs in Turkey. The press release states: ‘The trial is based on an open, software-driven architecture that leverages virtualization to deliver more programmable, automated granular-by-user traffic management.’

The initial focus is on delivering something called tenant-aware admission control capability, which apparently enables operators to personalise services and provide ‘superior user experiences.’

What exactly does that mean exactly? The press release goes on to say: “Real-time tracking and enforcement of radio resources across the RAN enables mission-critical users – for example, hospitals and schools – to receive prioritized mobile data services delivery. This capability is enabled by Juniper’s rApp/xApp cloud-based software tools that manage network functions in near real-time, along with Parallel Wireless cloud-native OpenRAN functions.”

Apparently this new RIC trial is ‘architected as an open platform supporting open interfaces on the north bound and south bound side, enabling easier integration with OpenRAN partners in the ecosystem.’

Leaving no detail out, the press release goes onto explain that this also enables ‘easy integration of third-party rApps/xApps, using UI-based onboarding and deployment tools coupled with flexibility to select between either network-based or SDK-based APIs (Application Programming Interfaces).’ So make of that what you will.

“Vodafone has a clear vision that all mobile network radio infrastructure should be open – enabling rapid adoption of innovative services,” said Paco Martin, Head of OpenRAN at Vodafone Group. “We see this as a key stepping stone to rich innovation and collaboration, the only way that groundbreaking new use cases in 4G and 5G can be developed and cost-effectiveness maximized.

“In order to accelerate progress in this exciting journey, I am very pleased that Vodafone is hosting a lab and field trial for tenant-aware admission control using O-RAN interfaces, alongside an ecosystem of like-minded technology partners, including Juniper Networks and Parallel Wireless. By working together, we will be able to build smarter networks, better user experiences and drive stronger sustainability measures for B2B use cases.”

Constantine Polychronopoulos, VP of 5G and Telco Cloud at Juniper Networks added: “This multivendor trial at Vodafone has provided the perfect opportunity to demonstrate how Juniper’s  RIC, and our focus on enabling seamless application portability, are able to unlock the true potential of OpenRAN. By coupling our innovations with those of Parallel Wireless and Vodafone’s operational experience, we are able to achieve a real-world use case that can deliver value and better user experiences with improved economics for operators.”