LSA-Advanced and C-RAN: A (5G) Romance of Many Dimensions

TL;DR

This paper explores expanding spectrum sharing through LSA by adding infrastructure sharing, proposing a dynamic, flexible model using C-RAN to enhance 5G network efficiency and regulatory adaptability.

Contribution

It introduces a novel dimension for spectrum sharing, integrating infrastructure sharing with LSA and C-RAN to enable more dynamic and flexible network management.

Findings

Infrastructure sharing enhances spectrum sharing flexibility.

C-RAN enables dynamic multi-tenant network operation.

Proposed model improves network efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Abstract

We examine the dimensional limitations of Licensed Shared Access (LSA) regulatory framework for spectrum sharing and propose a solution for its more dynamic implementation. We consider an additional dimension for sharing, beyond those of time, space and frequency, i.e. the sharing of the infrastructure. We explain why we believe that the emerging regulations and use-case scenarios are limiting the potential of LSA, and with this in mind make a set of recommendations to unlock it fully. As a specific case study, we present our architectural work around Cloud-based Radio Access Network (C-RAN) and LSA to demonstrate the possibility of a dynamic implementation of multiple incumbents and multiple LSA licensees engaged in sharing. Our case study highlights multiple ways for LSA framework to evolve into a global and flexible sharing model, and prove that LSA and C-RAN are a good match to rethink how we look at networks targeting a more flexible, efficient and profitable way of operating them.