RANBooster Framework for Enhanced Cellular Connectivity

This technical report presents RANBooster, a proposed middlebox architecture designed to enhance the capabilities of the 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) without necessitating modifications to existing network functions. The report outlines the shift towards virtualization and disaggregation in the RAN, which aims to reduce costs and promote innovation through vendor interoperability. It identifies challenges faced by smaller RAN vendors, such as achieving high performance and accessing necessary data and control mechanisms. RANBooster addresses these challenges by allowing third parties to develop and deploy RAN features in the form of middleboxes, leveraging the open fronthaul interface. The report details the development of four reference applications that demonstrate the framework's capabilities, including distributed antenna systems and real-time resource monitoring. The performance and interoperability of these applications are evaluated on a commercial-grade 5G testbed, showcasing the potential for RANBooster to democratize advanced cellular connectivity and foster innovation in the Open RAN ecosystem.