Adapting LoRaWAN to the Open-RAN Architecture

This article proposes <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">O-LoRaWAN</i>, an adaptation of the LoRaWAN architecture into a modular network architecture based on the Open RAN (O-RAN) principles. In our vision, standardization of the network components and interfaces will enable the reuse of network functions, and thus, foster an accelerated tailoring of the network functions to the changing application demands. LoRaWAN shares similarities to cellular networks and becomes an interesting candidate for a transformation to the O-RAN standard. In the article we draw several transition strategies, these include the reorganization of the LoRa gateway functions into Radio and Distributed Units; enhancing network performance with RAN Intelligent Controllers exploiting the network data; and the standardization of the management and orchestration of network components. We also present a prototype implementation, demonstrating the integration of LoRaWAN components into the O-RAN framework using the E2 interface and xApps. Key for that adaptation are the O-RAN interfaces. Along the article, we analyze them and suggest protocol extensions or adjustments for compatibility and interoperability between network components, advocating for the design of extensible protocols.