The basic goal of these projects is to disaggregate the large proprietary network functions, such as the RAN or the EPC, and allow them to run on Commercial-Off-The-Shelf COTS hardware.
If they are successful, here are some impacts to expect:
1️⃣ ISVs become major players in the #telecoms ecosystem, displacing the traditional vendors.
2️⃣ Many more Linux instances will run in both public and private clouds.
3️⃣ Layer 2/3 networks become increasingly important to connect the Mobile Edge, Cores, and Clouds.
4️⃣ Future technology upgrades will more resemble the Apps on your phone than today’s forklift swap-outs. 5G will be the last G.
5️⃣ CapEx shifts to OpEx as bespoke applications servers are replaced by software running on generic Linux instances in the Cloud. This will have huge implications for today’s capital-intensive Telecoms business. So much of today’s Capital Expenditure will tomorrow be replaced by monthly recurring Operating Expenses.
6️⃣ A disaggregated network will be orchestrated dynamically by AI.
This list is not exhaustive. But the changes will be mind-boggling.
What do you think? How will disaggregation change the business?
Leave me a comment with your ideas.
I have a list of Open Telecoms Projects which I’ve been following. 18 Projects and counting! Click the link below to download a copy. If there’s a project you follow which isn’t on the list, kindly post it
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