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Pioneering the path to 6G: The role of Open RAN

Ramat Yusuf

Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology  ·  Area of research: ICT

Abstract

This article explores the transformative potential of 6G and Open Radio Access Network (OpenRAN) in shaping the future of wireless communication. As the sixth generation of wireless technology, 6G is poised to deliver unprecedented advancements, including terabit-per-second data rates, ultra-low latency, and seamless AI integration, which will redefine sectors such as healthcare, education, and smart cities. Simultaneously, OpenRAN emerges as a disruptive technology addressing the rigidity of traditional RAN systems through its open, interoperable, and cost-efficient architecture. This synergy between OpenRAN and 6G is critical for enabling innovative applications, enhancing scalability, and democratizing access to advanced communication technologies. The article focuses on how OpenRAN can serve as a cornerstone in the development and deployment of 6G, examining its potential to overcome existing challenges in network scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. By analyzing the interplay between OpenRAN and 6G, this study underscores their combined role in driving the next wave of connectivity and global digital transformation.

References

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[12] Mao, Q., You, C., Zhang, J., Huang, K., & Letaief, K. B. (2017). A survey on mobile edge computing: The communication perspective. IEEE Communications Surveys & Tutorials, 19(4), 2322-2358. https://doi.org/10.1109/COMST.2017.2745201

[13] Balogun, H. O., & Adanigbo, O. S. (2024). Implementing Cyber Threat Intelligence and Monitoring in 5G O-RAN: Proactive Protection Against Evolving Threats.

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[16] Shah, D., Mishra, R., & Sharma, V. (2022). Open RAN: Breaking Vendor Lock-in. Telecom Journal, 19(4), 34-39.

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[34] Mao, Q., You, C., Zhang, J., Huang, K., & Letaief, K. B. (2017). A survey on mobile edge computing: The communication perspective. IEEE Communications Surveys & Tutorials, 19(4), 2322-2358. https://doi.org/10.1109/COMST.2017.2745201

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How to cite this paper

Ramat Yusuf "Pioneering the path to 6G: The role of Open RAN" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 8 Issue 7 2025 Page 602-611
Ramat Yusuf "Pioneering the path to 6G: The role of Open RAN" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, vol. 8, no. 7, Jan. 2025
Ramat Yusuf (2025). Pioneering the path to 6G: The role of Open RAN. Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 8(7).
Ramat Yusuf "Pioneering the path to 6G: The role of Open RAN" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, vol. 8, no. 7, Jan. 2025.
@article{1707006,
      author = {Ramat Yusuf},
      title = {Pioneering the path to 6G: The role of Open RAN},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2025},
      volume = {8},
      number = {7},
      pages = {602-611},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1707006.pdf},
      abstract = {This article explores the transformative potential of 6G and Open Radio Access Network (OpenRAN) in shaping the future of wireless communication. As the sixth generation of wireless technology, 6G is poised to deliver unprecedented advancements, including terabit-per-second data rates, ultra-low latency, and seamless AI integration, which will redefine sectors such as healthcare, education, and smart cities. Simultaneously, OpenRAN emerges as a disruptive technology addressing the rigidity of traditional RAN systems through its open, interoperable, and cost-efficient architecture. This synergy between OpenRAN and 6G is critical for enabling innovative applications, enhancing scalability, and democratizing access to advanced communication technologies. The article focuses on how OpenRAN can serve as a cornerstone in the development and deployment of 6G, examining its potential to overcome existing challenges in network scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. By analyzing the interplay between OpenRAN and 6G, this study underscores their combined role in driving the next wave of connectivity and global digital transformation.},
      month = {January},
  }