Abstract

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract
Over the years, mobile networks were deployed using monolithic hardware based on proprietary solutions. Recently, the concept of open Radio Access Networks (RANs), including the standards and specifications from O-RAN Alliance, has emerged. It aims at enabling open, interoperable networks based on independent virtualized components connected through open interfaces. This paves the way to collect metrics and to control the RAN components by means of software applications such as the O-RAN-specified xApps. We propose a private standalone network leveraged by a mobile RAN employing the O-RAN architecture. The mobile RAN consists of a radio node (gNB) carried by a Mobile Robotic Platform autonomously positioned to provide on-demand wireless connectivity. The proposed solution employs a novel Mobility Management xApp to collect and process metrics from the RAN, while using an original algorithm to define the placement of the mobile RAN. This allows for the improvement of the connectivity offered to the User Equipments.

Abstract
The implementation of traffic differentiation measures by internet service providers (ISPs) has raised concerns regarding net neutrality, potentially leading to discriminatory practices that challenge existing regulatory frameworks. The complexity of this issue intensifies with the advent of 5G networks as they dynamically assemble elements of the physical infrastructure to create logically segregated domains customised to accommodate usage scenarios with specific requirements, resulting in the categorisation of users, applications, and services into distinct groups which possess the capacity to disrupt the non-discriminatory treatment of data flows. Within this context, a pivotal question arises: how can regulatory authorities effectively evaluate traffic differentiation in 5G networks? In response, this paper proposes an innovative application of the standardised network data analytics function (NWDAF) to facilitate the assessment of internet traffic differentiation. We introduce this novel concept and demonstrate its implementation through a proof -of -concept prototype. By leveraging the NWDAF, regulators may obtain direct and automatic access to performance metrics of 5G networks, enabling the analysis of the traffic management mechanisms employed by ISPs.