# Connecting the Unconnected: Towards Frugal 5G Network Architecture and Standardization

## TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel Frugal 5G Network architecture tailored for rural broadband connectivity, integrating heterogeneous access, SDN, NFV, and Fog computing to address rural connectivity challenges.

## Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive, scalable 5G architecture specifically designed for rural areas, combining multiple advanced technologies for improved connectivity.

## Key findings

- Design of a heterogeneous access network with macro cells and WLANs
- Integration of SDN, NFV, and Fog computing for flexibility and intelligence
- Potential to influence IEEE P2061 standardization efforts

## Abstract

This article adopts a holistic approach to address the problem of poor broadband connectivity in rural areas by suggesting a novel wireless network architecture, also called the "Frugal 5G Network". To arrive at the Frugal 5G Network architecture, we take into consideration the rural connectivity needs and the characteristics specific to rural areas. As part of the proposed Frugal 5G Network, we define a heterogeneous Access Network wherein macro cells provide a carpet coverage while Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) provide additional capacity to serve the village clusters. WLAN is backhauled via a wireless network also called the wireless middle mile network. We define a Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) based architecture to make the network flexible and scalable. The concepts of Fog computing have also been employed in the network architecture to bring intelligence to the edge, i.e., to the access network. Through a novel amalgamation of these technologies, we are able to address the connectivity requirements of rural areas. The proposed network architecture can serve as a potential solution towards IEEE P2061, a standardization project that aims to design an architecture to facilitate rural broadband communication.