3 minute read
Why are indoor networks considered significant in the future of wireless communication?
The importance of indoor networks in wireless communication has surged as 80 percent of mobile traffic has moved indoors. In the Ericsson paper, “Indoor RAN: Shaping the future of in-building communication,” we highlight the need for a paradigm shift toward networks designed with indoor usage at their core—a shift that promises not only to enhance user experiences but also maximize return on spectrum investments for communications service providers (CSPs). Here are a few of the key topics discussed in the paper.
Key topic #1: The ever-evolving landscape of wireless communication through technological innovation
As mobile communications technology has advanced from 1G to 5G, there has always been a need for more spectrum to satisfy the insatiable data consumption that comes with new technologies and the keystone applications accompanying each. From the very first wireless mobile communication device—the car phone—to today’s smartphones and the proliferation of mobile apps, our paper explores trends in user behavior, technology evolution and network deployment strategy to understand how we arrived at the need for dedicated in-building 5G coverage.
Key topic #2: Challenges of the outdoor-to-indoor model for 5G
As service providers have tried to satisfy both outdoor and indoor coverage needs through their macro networks, and as spectrum needs have evolved toward ever higher frequency bands, the outside-in approach to indoor coverage is reaching its limits. From spectrum types and coverage characteristics to building penetration challenges, our report takes a close look at the inability of this model to deliver the full advantages of 5G.
Key topic #3: The return on investment for an outdoor-to-indoor model
Considering the challenges of outdoor-to-indoor coverage for 5G networks and the amount paid by service providers for mid-band spectrum in recent auctions (CBRS-PAL, C-Band and DoD) you have to wonder: Are the providers getting an adequate return on their spectrum investments? Our paper aims to answer this question by examining traffic distribution, outdoor site efficiency and asset utilization to calculate spectrum value.
Key topic #4: Dedicated in-building coverage is imperative for 5G and future Gs
Mobile data traffic originating indoors will continue to grow, and bandwidth to serve these demands is only available through midand high-band spectrum. These higher bands, however, cannot penetrate deep indoors, and therefore, 5G coverage in buildings will have to be dedicated, originating indoors and not from the macro.
