A Private Network is a dedicated wireless communication system that serves specific enterprise demands, providing a controlled environment with tailored network capabilities to satisfy the enterprise application requirements. The open interface specifications produced by the O-RAN ALLIANCE are gaining significant adoption across industry verticals, bringing the benefits of interoperability, flexibility, and innovation, while contributing to cost reduction, scalability, and enhanced security. This white paper explores the adoption of the O-RAN architecture for 5G Private Networks, emphasizing the advantages it offers in terms of openness, intelligence, and automation.

Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) serving mobile devices are becoming more common and will be an important part of connecting users where Terrestrial Networks do not exist today. NTNs are networks that operate above the surface of the Earth. They typically are deployed on Satellites in a variety of orbital configurations from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to Geo-synchronize Earth Orbit (GEO). This white paper provides an overview of the integration of O-RAN network architecture and an NTN, detailing their significance, current status, future challenges, and security considerations.

The O-RAN ALLIANCE has been supporting the testing and integration needs of its member companies for the past several years through the development of test specifications, specifying processes for certification and badging, establishment of Open Test and Integration Centers, and organizing Global PlugFests. A previous white paper has provided an overview of the certification and badging process and Open Test and Integration Centers. This white paper dives deeper into the O-RAN test specifications and other Open RAN laboratories that are contributing towards the proliferation of Open RAN. In addition, the paper contributors have outlined key challenges in Open RAN and recommendations on how to overcome several of these challenges.

This whitepaper by NEC and RMI explores innovative energy efficiency technologies and strategies for O-RAN architecture components. It discusses technical descriptions, energy savings, and potential standardization recommendations for various technologies. These strategies are designed to significantly reduce the environmental footprint of O-RAN ALLIANCE Radio Access Networks while maintaining network performance and reliability. By adopting these energy-efficient solutions, the O-RAN community can lead the way in creating a more sustainable and cost-effective telecommunications network.