CSPs seem to have settled on their 5G core deployment models; vRAN/Open RAN strategies remain in flux

The introduction of 5G in 2019 promised communications service providers (CSPs) a new, cloud-native architecture that would enable open, horizontal cloud platforms with best-of-breed components. However, 5 years later, in 2024, these ambitions have yet to fully materialise. Of all 5G mobile cores deployed, only 40% have adopted a horizontal, disaggregated architecture – far less than initially expected to date. Although 71% of vRAN/Open RAN deployments adopt open and disaggregated models, the total number of 5G RAN deployments is still much lower compared to the far more widespread cloud-based 5G core deployments

This article analyses the trends in 5G network cloud deployment models, and examines vendor ecosystems as well as an evaluation of the initial promise at the inception of 5G of a more open and competitive market driven by disaggregated deployment models. Data for this article is taken from Analysys Mason’s 5G network cloud deployment tracker and accompanying highlights report which are based on 206 publicly announced 5G core and vRAN/open RAN deals since 2020.