The first book on Cloud Radio Access Networks (C-RANs), covering fundamental theory, current techniques, and potential applications.

C-RAN and virtualized Small Cell technology poses several major research challenges. These include dynamic resource allocation, self-configuration in the baseband pool, high latency in data transfer between radio unit and baseband unit, the cost of data delivery, high volume of data in the network, software networking aspects, potential energy savings, security concerns, privacy of user’s personal data at a remote place, limitations of virtualized environment, etc. This book provides deeper insights into the next generation RAN architecture and surveys the coexistence of SDN, C-RAN and Small Cells solutions proposed in the literature at different levels.

This book provides a comprehensive introduction of Fog Radio Access Networks (F-RANs), from both academic and industry perspectives. The authors first introduce the network architecture and the frameworks of network management and resource allocation for F-RANs. They then discuss the recent academic research achievements of F-RANs, such as the analytical results of theoretical performance limits and optimization theory-based resource allocation techniques. Meanwhile, they discuss the application and implementations of F-RANs, including the latest standardization procedure, and the prototype and test bed design. The book is concluded by summarizing the existing open issues and future trends of F-RANs. Includes the latest theoretical and technological research achievements of F-RANs, also discussing existing open issues and future trends of F-RANs toward 6G from an interdisciplinary perspective; Provides commonly-used tools for research and development of F-RANs such as open resource projects for implementing prototypes and test beds; Includes examples of prototype and test bed design and gives tools to evaluate the performance of F-RANs in simulations and experimental circumstances.

This comprehensive resource explores state-of-the-art advances in the successful deployment and operation of small cell networks. A broad range of technical challenges, and possible solutions, are addressed, including practical deployment considerations and interference management techniques, all set within the context of the most recent cutting-edge advances. Key aspects covered include 3GPP standardisation, applications of stochastic geometry, PHY techniques, MIMO techniques, handover and radio resource management, including techniques designed to make the best possible use of the available spectrum. Detailed technical information is provided throughout, with a consistent emphasis on real-world applications. Bringing together world-renowned experts from industry and academia, this is an indispensable volume for researchers, engineers and systems designers in the wireless communication industry.

The mobile market has experienced unprecedented growth over the last few decades. Consumer trends have shifted towards mobile internet services supported by 3G and 4G networks worldwide. Inherent to existing networks are problems such as lack of spectrum, high energy consumption, and inter-cell interference. These limitations have led to the emergence of 5G technology. It is clear that any 5G system will integrate optical communications, which is already a mainstay of wide area networks. Using an optical core to route 5G data raises significant questions of how wireless and optical can coexist in synergy to provide smooth, end-to-end communication pathways. Optical and Wireless Convergence for 5G Networks explores new emerging technologies, concepts, and approaches for seamlessly integrating optical-wireless for 5G and beyond. Considering both fronthaul and backhaul perspectives, this timely book provides insights on managing an ecosystem of mixed and multiple access network communications focused on optical-wireless convergence. Topics include Fiber–Wireless (FiWi), Hybrid Fiber-Wireless (HFW), Visible Light Communication (VLC), 5G optical sensing technologies, approaches to real-time IoT applications, Tactile Internet, Fog Computing (FC), Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), Software-Defined Networking (SDN), and many others. This book aims to provide an inclusive survey of 5G optical-wireless requirements, architecture developments, and technological solutions.

Mobile wireless communication systems have affected every aspect of life. By providing seamless connectivity, these systems enable almost all the smart devices in the world to communicate with high speed throughput and extremely low latency. The next generation of cellular mobile communications, 5G, aims to support the tremendous growth of interconnected things/devices (i.e., internet of things [IoT]) using the current technologies and extending them to be used in higher frequencies to cope with the huge number of different devices. In addition, 5G will provide massive capacity, high throughput, lower end-to-end delay, green communication, cost reduction, and extended coverage area. Fundamental and Supportive Technologies for 5G Mobile Networks provides detailed research on technologies used in 5G, their benefits, practical designs, and recent challenges and focuses on future applications that could exploit 5G network benefits. The content within this publication examines cellular communication, data transmission, and high-speed communication. It is designed for network analysts, IT specialists, industry professionals, software engineers, researchers, academicians, students, and scientists.

This book explores the challenges and opportunities in exploiting cloud technologies for 5G, ranging from radio access network (RAN) to the evolved packet core (EPC). With a specific focus on cloud RAN and EPC, the text carefully explains the influence of recent network technologies such as software defined networking (SDN), visualization, and cloud technologies in the evolution of architecture for future mobile networks. The book discusses the causes, benefits and challenges of cloud RAN and its interplay with other evolving technologies for future mobile networks. Researchers and professionals involved in mobile technology or cloud computing will find this book a valuable resource. The text is also suitable for advanced-level students studying all types of networking.