ALLPCB
1. Network sharing
Since the 4G (LTE) era, network sharing has become one of the main methods for different mobile operators to complement each other's coverage and improve user experience. Two primary approaches are in use: MOCN and MORAN.
2. MORAN
MORAN stands for Multi-Operator Radio Access Network. In this model the radio site equipment, including the baseband unit (BBU) and remote radio head (RRH), are co-located and shared by multiple operators, while each operator retains its own spectrum. The radio access network (RAN) is shared, but each operator keeps its own core network.
3. MOCN
MOCN is the abbreviation for Multi-Operator Core Network. This arrangement allows multiple operators to share core network resources. It also permits sharing of the radio network elements such as eNB/gNB; MOCN implementations typically include shared frequency resources, which affects per-cell network parameter control.
Why MOCN may be chosen
If an operator is willing to invest in the core, they may avoid building an independent RAN, which can reduce deployment costs. It can also allow other mobile network operators to extend their service coverage more quickly by connecting into the shared infrastructure.
4. Key differences between MOCN and MORAN
Under MOCN, multiple operators share the same core network (maintained and upgraded by the equipment owner), while maintaining separate radio networks (RAN) and spectrum outside the core. The equipment owner is responsible for core maintenance and upgrades.
Under MORAN, each operator maintains its own core network while sharing the radio network equipment. RAN and spectrum maintenance are the responsibility of the equipment owner, and other operators monitor and manage only their own subscribers.
5. Network sharing and network slicing
With the arrival of 5G, 3GPP defines network slicing. Network slicing uses the existing network to run multiple logical networks that meet agreed service level agreements (SLAs) for different vertical customers, providing end-to-end (E2E) services. The 5G system specifies an end-to-end network slice architecture that spans multiple technology domains (such as devices, access network, core network, transport network, and network management systems) and multiple vendors. An E2E network slice consists of RAN, transport, and core network slice subnets; each subnet can include further decomposition, for example decomposing the RAN subnet into fronthaul, midhaul, and backhaul RAN network functions. Each slice can be configured for a specific use case and fully controlled by the operator.
In a shared network using MORAN, each operator retains its own spectrum and is free to use that spectrum as long as the RAN can support the use case. MOCN allows virtual mobile network operators (MVNOs) to connect to the RAN, but the RAN owner can control what end user equipment (UE) can do, how much bandwidth is allocated, and how connections are established.
If the RAN owner agrees, an MVNO may be assigned protected network slices to provide stronger service guarantees for end users.
