Telefonica uses Nokia Cloud RAN technology in 5G network

Telefonica Deutschland, which provides fixed and mobile services under the brand O2, has announced that it is using Cloud RAN technology from Nokia in its 5G network for the first time. As with Open RAN, Cloud RAN allows parts of the RAN to be virtualised, which makes it possible to separate hardware and software. Telefonica also benefits from the advantages of the cloud in the mobile access network, for example for the automation of network functions or more flexible use of hardware.

‘We are proud to be the first network operator in Europe to use Nokia’s innovative Cloud RAN technology in our O2 5G live network,’ said Mallik Rao, Chief Technology and Information Officer at Telefonica Deutschland, adding: ‘The cloud is a real game changer. We are already deploying it in the 5G core network. Virtualising the RAN is the next logical step in our journey to increasingly move network functions to the cloud. We can use it to further optimise our existing, very good network. Cloud RAN offers us additional opportunities in terms of automation and flexibility as well as accelerated roll-out of innovations. We are thus operating the most advanced mobile network.’