On the Performance of Blockchain-enabled RAN-as-a-service in Beyond 5G Networks

TL;DR

This paper explores how blockchain technology can enable secure, flexible, and autonomous RAN resource sharing among network operators and providers in Beyond 5G networks, proposing a reverse auction mechanism and analyzing its performance.

Contribution

It introduces a blockchain-enabled reverse auction mechanism for RAN sharing in Beyond 5G networks, addressing security, flexibility, and autonomy in resource exchange.

Findings

Blockchain reduces sharing overheads and delays.

The proposed mechanism improves resource allocation efficiency.

Analysis shows feasibility over wireless and wired interfaces.

Abstract

Blockchain (BC) technology can revolutionize the future of communications by enabling decentralized and open sharing networks. In this paper, we propose the application of BC to facilitate Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and other players such as Verticals or Over-The-Top (OTT) service providers to exchange Radio Access Network (RAN) resources (e.g., infrastructure, spectrum) in a secure, flexible and autonomous manner. In particular, we propose a BC-enabled reverse auction mechanism for RAN sharing and dynamic users' service provision in Beyond 5G networks, and we analyze its potential advantages with respect to current service provisioning and RAN sharing schemes. Moreover, we study the delay and overheads incurred by the BC in the whole process, when running over both wireless and wired interfaces.