This is the sixth blog in a series of weekly posts that focuses on highlights from the “Open Source Near-RT RIC Comparison v1.0” report by Rimedo Labs.
Introduction
In Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) environments, flexibility is a key characteristic that allows Near-Real-Time RAN Intelligent Controllers (Near-RT RICs) to adapt to various network architectures, deployment scenarios, and use cases. A flexible Near-RT RIC should support multiple deployment models, customizable service models, extensible APIs, and multi-vendor interoperability.
This blog post explores the flexibility of Aether SD-RAN, an open-source Near-RT RIC designed with modularity, cloud-native architecture, and extensibility in mind. Insights are drawn from Section 5.5 of the ‘Open Source Near-RT RIC Comparison v1.0’ report by Rimedo Labs. For a broader view of other open-source RIC implementations, readers can consult the full report.
What Defines Flexibility in Aether SD-RAN?
Aether SD-RAN exhibits flexibility in several dimensions that are critical to supporting modern and diverse O-RAN use cases:
- Support for Diverse Deployment Models
- Extensible Architecture
- Multi-Vendor Interoperability
- Customizable Service Models (E2SMs)
- API and xApp Extensibility
Let’s explore each area in more detail.
Deployment Model Flexibility
Aether SD-RAN supports multi-cloud and edge-native deployments, making it ideal for dynamic and distributed environments. It can be:
- Deployed on public or private cloud infrastructure.
- Installed on Kubernetes clusters across data centers or edge sites.
- Integrated with automated tools like Aether OnRamp for simplified deployment.
This makes Aether SD-RAN highly suitable for operators looking to deploy in standalone, distributed, complex and evolving environments.
Extensible Architecture
Built on a microservices-based architecture, Aether SD-RAN allows:
- Individual components to be developed, deployed, or scaled independently.
- Flexible integration of new modules, xApps, or interfaces.
- New features or improvements can be introduced to individual components without requiring changes to the entire system.
This modular design ensures that the platform can evolve with emerging network needs.
Multi-Vendor and E2 Node Support
Aether SD-RAN is designed to integrate with diverse E2 nodes from multiple vendors. Its architecture supports:
- Seamless onboarding of different RAN equipment.
- Interoperability across vendor ecosystems by adhering to O-RAN standards.
- Adaptation for specialized RAN configurations in edge, enterprise, or rural deployments.
This flexibility offers open network architectures, freedom of choice in radio vendors, and ability to mix and match.
Customizable E2 Service Models (E2SMs)
Aether SD-RAN enables developers to implement custom E2SMs based on specific use cases, such as:
- Traffic steering and load balancing.
- RAN radio energy efficiency and resource optimization.
- Network slicing and service assurance.
Support for both standardized and user-defined E2SMs makes Aether SD-RAN adaptable to both traditional and experimental RAN control scenarios.
xApp and API Extensibility
Aether SD-RAN offers gRPC-based APIs for streamlined xApp development and integration. Key capabilities include:
- Support for various programming languages through protobuf/gRPC interfaces.
- Modular xApp registration and management.
- Integration with external systems such as AI/ML pipelines, policy engines, or orchestration platforms.
This API-first design ensures that developers can build and innovate without tight coupling to the core system.
Conclusion
Aether SD-RAN is built for flexibility—supporting multi-cloud and edge deployments, offering a modular and extensible architecture, enabling customizable control models, and facilitating multi-vendor integration. These attributes make it well-suited for modern O-RAN environments where adaptability is essential.
For teams evaluating Near-RT RIC solutions, Aether SD-RAN offers a powerful combination of openness, modularity, and future-readiness.
For More Information
- For those seeking a deeper comparison across open-source Near-RT RIC implementations, refer to the “Open Source Near-RT RIC Comparison v1.0” by Rimedo Labs.
- Sign-up for the Aether Newsletter to stay up-to-date about news and events across the Aether community.
