Implementing OpenRAN: Democratizing 5G Networks

This paper highlights the endeavor to democratize 5G networks using OpenRAN by making their deployment and ownership more accessible to a broader range of stakeholders. The purpose is to break down existing barriers and foster greater inclusivity in the 5G landscape. To achieve this goal, we proposed a method involving the decoupling of software and hardware, coupled with leveraging virtualization techniques to simulate User Equipment (UE) and gNodeB. This approach embraces open standards and interfaces, effectively lowering the barriers to entry for new vendors and promoting innovation in the 5G ecosystem. Through these efforts, the project underlines the transformative potential of making 5G networks more democratic, inclusive, and conducive to accelerated technological advancements.