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Basic Components

Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) is an evolving framework that emphasizes openness, intelligence, and flexibility in telecom networks. Its architecture spans multiple layers and components, enabling efficient service management and orchestration:

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  • O-RU (O-RAN Radio Unit): Handles radio signal transmission and reception at the physical layer.
  • O-DU (O-RAN Distributed Unit): Manages real-time baseband processing and lower-layer protocols.
  • O-CU (O-RAN Central Unit): Focuses on higher-layer protocols and splits into two functional parts:
    • O-CU-CP (Control Plane): Responsible for non-real-time control and signaling functions.
    • O-CU-UP (User Plane): Manages user data traffic with low latency.
  • Near-Real-Time RIC: Provides policy-driven and AI-assisted optimization for RAN functions.
  • Service Management and Orchestration Framework: Coordinates lifecycle management, network slicing, and resource allocation across O-RAN components.

This layered approach enables interoperability, vendor flexibility, and the integration of intelligent control for next-generation mobile networks.

Next, we will describe each component of this architecture in greater detail.