Experience in profiling and optimizing a 5G standAlone Radio Access Network (RAN) based on an open source testbed

Abstract

The adoption of 5G technology in Africa has been increasing steadily, with initial emphasis on non-standalone (NSA) architecture to leverage existing 4G investments and accelerate return on investment. The uptake of standalone (SA) 5G has been slower due to technical complexity, handset interoperability, spectrum availability, infrastructure readiness, and other factors. Several institutions in South Africa have established 5G research and development (R&D) testbeds to foster innovation and develop local expertise in 5G and its enabling technologies. When setting up a 5G testbed, adhering to best practices and conducting a comprehensive profiling of the environment is crucial for optimizing network performance. This paper provides a guide for profiling and optimizing the Radio Access Network (RAN) segment within a 5G testbed. Experimental evaluations show that optimizing parameters such as antenna gain, CPU performance, and antenna configuration significantly improves air interface stability, underscoring the importance of RAN optimization for overall network performance in a 5G testbed environment.