5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits: Complete Guide for 2026
- Neeraj Verma
- 3 minutes ago
- 18 min read
Introduction to the 5G Radio Access Network
The global telecom industry has entered a phase where high-speed connectivity, ultra-low latency, and massive device connectivity are no longer optional—they are essential. At the heart of this transformation lies the 5G Radio Access Network (RAN). One of the most critical components within this ecosystem is the gNodeB, commonly referred to as gNB. Understanding 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits has become increasingly important for telecom engineers, network planners, and students who want to build a strong career in wireless communications.
The evolution from 4G LTE to 5G has not just improved speed; it has fundamentally changed how network infrastructure is designed. The gNB acts as the base station that connects user devices to the 5G core network. But unlike earlier generations, the architecture of the gNB is far more modular and flexible. This flexibility is achieved through something known as function splitting, where different processing tasks are separated and distributed across various network components.
In 2026, telecom operators are rapidly deploying advanced RAN architectures such as Cloud RAN, Open RAN, and virtualized base stations. These technologies rely heavily on function splits to balance computing power, reduce latency, and optimize costs. The idea is simple: instead of performing all tasks at a single base station, certain operations can be centralized while others remain closer to the radio hardware.
For students and professionals entering the telecom industry, understanding these architectural changes is crucial. Companies across the world are actively looking for engineers who understand RAN virtualization, gNB components, and deployment strategies. This guide explains the architecture, components, and operational aspects of modern 5G networks in a practical, easy-to-understand way.
Table of Contents
Introduction to the 5G Radio Access Network
Why 5G Infrastructure Matters for Modern Connectivity
Understanding the gNodeB in the RAN Ecosystem
Key Components of gNB
Central Unit (CU) Overview
Distributed Unit (DU) Overview
Radio Unit (RU) Overview
Architecture Layers in gNB
Control Plane vs User Plane
Protocol Stack in gNB
Function Splits in 5G Networks
Types of Function Split Options
Benefits for Operators
Deployment Models
Cloud RAN and Open RAN
Implementation Challenges
Fronthaul Requirements
Career Opportunities in Telecom
Apeksha Telecom and Bikas Kumar Singh
Future of gNB Toward 6G
Why 5G Infrastructure Matters for Modern Connectivity
Modern digital ecosystems rely on reliable connectivity more than ever before. Applications such as autonomous vehicles, smart cities, IoT devices, augmented reality, and remote healthcare require networks capable of handling massive data traffic with minimal delay. This is where 5G infrastructure becomes critical.
Traditional 4G networks were designed mainly for mobile broadband services. While they worked well for smartphones and basic data services, they were not built to handle billions of connected devices simultaneously. 5G changes this paradigm by introducing three main service categories:
Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) – extremely fast data speeds
Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC) – mission-critical applications
Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC) – IoT device connectivity
To support these services, telecom networks require a more intelligent and flexible architecture. That is why modern RAN designs are moving away from traditional monolithic base stations toward modular architectures where different functions are distributed across multiple units.
This is exactly where 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits play a vital role. By dividing the processing workload across Central Units, Distributed Units, and Radio Units, operators can optimize network performance while also reducing infrastructure costs.
According to industry reports from organizations like GSMA and Ericsson, global 5G subscriptions are expected to exceed 6 billion by 2028, highlighting how rapidly telecom networks are expanding. As operators continue to deploy new base stations, they require scalable architectures capable of supporting increasing traffic loads.
Another important factor is network virtualization. Telecom companies are transitioning from hardware-based systems to software-defined architectures. This allows network functions to run on cloud infrastructure rather than dedicated physical equipment.
For telecom professionals, this shift means new skills are required. Engineers must understand virtualization platforms, RAN disaggregation, and advanced network architectures. Those who master these technologies will have significant opportunities as the telecom sector continues to grow throughout 2026 and beyond.
Understanding the 5G gNB in the RAN Ecosystem
The gNodeB (gNB) is essentially the backbone of the 5G radio network. It acts as the interface between user equipment (UE)—such as smartphones, IoT devices, and connected machines—and the 5G core network. Without the gNB, devices would not be able to communicate with the telecom infrastructure.
In earlier network generations like LTE, the base station (called eNodeB) handled most radio and processing functions in a single physical unit. However, the increasing complexity of 5G services required a new approach. Instead of relying on a single centralized unit, the architecture now distributes tasks across different functional blocks.
This architectural design significantly improves scalability, flexibility, and efficiency. Operators can upgrade or expand certain components without replacing the entire base station infrastructure.
Understanding 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits helps engineers identify how processing responsibilities are distributed between different network elements. This separation allows operators to place computational workloads where they are most efficient—either closer to the radio hardware or within centralized cloud environments.
A typical gNB architecture consists of three primary components:
Component | Function | Location |
CU (Central Unit) | Handles higher-layer protocols | Data center or central cloud |
DU (Distributed Unit) | Handles real-time processing | Edge locations |
RU (Radio Unit) | Handles radio frequency transmission | Cell tower or antenna site |
This layered design allows operators to centralize certain network functions while keeping time-sensitive operations close to the antenna. The result is a highly optimized network capable of supporting advanced 5G applications.
Industry initiatives such as O-RAN Alliance are also promoting open and interoperable architectures. This means equipment from multiple vendors can work together, reducing dependency on a single manufacturer.
As telecom networks expand globally throughout 2026, the role of the gNB continues to evolve. Engineers working in network deployment, optimization, and RAN design must have a deep understanding of this architecture to successfully implement next-generation mobile networks.
Key Components of a gNodeB
The modern 5G base station is not a single box sitting at the tower site anymore. Instead, it is a distributed architecture made up of several logical and physical components that work together to deliver ultra-fast connectivity. When engineers discuss 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits, they are essentially describing how these components interact and how processing responsibilities are divided between them.
A gNodeB performs several complex tasks simultaneously. It handles radio signal transmission, mobility management, scheduling, encryption, packet processing, beamforming, and interference coordination. These operations must happen within milliseconds to ensure seamless connectivity for users. To make this possible, the gNB architecture divides tasks into different functional blocks that can be placed in different locations across the network.
This modular design provides several advantages for telecom operators. First, it allows scalable deployment, meaning operators can add capacity without replacing the entire base station infrastructure. Second, it enables centralized processing, which reduces operational costs. Third, it supports network virtualization, allowing software-based network functions to run on cloud platforms instead of dedicated hardware.
The three core components of a gNodeB include:
Central Unit (CU)
Distributed Unit (DU)
Radio Unit (RU)
Each of these units handles specific layers of the 5G protocol stack. The CU focuses on higher-layer processing such as packet data convergence and mobility management. The DU manages real-time scheduling and lower-layer protocol operations. The RU is responsible for radio frequency transmission and signal processing between the antenna and the user device.
This separation is what makes advanced RAN architectures such as Cloud RAN (C-RAN) and Open RAN (O-RAN) possible. Instead of deploying complete base stations at every tower site, operators can place computing resources in centralized data centers while keeping lightweight radio units near antennas.
For telecom engineers, understanding these components is crucial. Network deployment, troubleshooting, and optimization tasks all require knowledge of how CU, DU, and RU interact. As 5G continues expanding globally, expertise in these technologies will become one of the most valuable skill sets in the telecom industry.
Central Unit (CU) Overview
The Central Unit (CU) is the brain of the gNB architecture. It is responsible for handling higher-layer network protocols and coordinating communication with the 5G core network. In many deployments, the CU is located in centralized data centers or cloud infrastructure rather than at the physical cell site.
The CU primarily manages the control plane and user plane processing at higher layers, including protocols such as PDCP (Packet Data Convergence Protocol) and SDAP (Service Data Adaptation Protocol). These protocols manage tasks like packet routing, header compression, and encryption, ensuring data is transmitted efficiently and securely across the network.
One of the biggest advantages of placing the CU in a centralized environment is resource pooling. Instead of dedicating computing resources to each individual base station, multiple cell sites can share the same CU infrastructure. This reduces costs and improves scalability for telecom operators.
Another major benefit is improved network management and coordination. When multiple base stations are connected to a centralized CU, operators can implement advanced features such as:
Coordinated multi-point transmission (CoMP)
Dynamic spectrum allocation
Centralized mobility management
Inter-cell interference coordination
These capabilities significantly improve network performance, especially in densely populated urban areas.
In large-scale 5G deployments, a single CU may manage dozens or even hundreds of distributed units. This hierarchical structure allows operators to maintain centralized control while still keeping latency-sensitive operations close to the user.
As telecom networks evolve toward cloud-native architectures in 2026, many CUs are being implemented as virtualized network functions (VNFs) or containerized network functions (CNFs) running on standard cloud infrastructure. This approach aligns with broader industry trends toward software-defined networking and network function virtualization.
Distributed Unit (DU) Overview
The Distributed Unit (DU) acts as the middle layer between the Central Unit and the Radio Unit. While the CU handles higher-layer processing, the DU manages real-time radio processing tasks that require extremely low latency.
These tasks include operations related to MAC (Medium Access Control), RLC (Radio Link Control), and parts of the physical layer. Because these functions must operate in real time, the DU is usually deployed closer to the cell site—often in edge data centers or regional network facilities.
One of the primary responsibilities of the DU is radio resource scheduling. It determines how network resources such as time slots and frequency blocks are allocated among users. This scheduling process must happen extremely quickly, sometimes within microseconds, to ensure efficient use of the radio spectrum.
The DU also handles tasks such as:
Hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ)
Channel coding and decoding
Data retransmission management
Load balancing between cells
By performing these time-sensitive operations closer to the antenna, the DU reduces network latency and ensures consistent performance for applications that require real-time communication.
Another important role of the DU is enabling network slicing, which allows operators to create multiple virtual networks on the same physical infrastructure. For example, one slice could support autonomous vehicle communications while another handles mobile broadband traffic.
As telecom networks move toward edge computing, the role of the DU becomes even more significant. Edge deployments allow operators to run applications closer to users, reducing latency for services like augmented reality, gaming, and industrial automation.
Radio Unit (RU) Overview
The Radio Unit (RU) is the component that directly interacts with the physical wireless environment. It is typically installed at the cell tower or antenna site and is responsible for transmitting and receiving radio signals between the network and user devices.
Unlike the CU and DU, which focus primarily on digital processing, the RU deals with radio frequency (RF) operations. It converts digital signals from the DU into analog radio signals that can be transmitted through antennas. Similarly, it converts incoming radio signals from user devices back into digital data that can be processed by the network.
Modern RUs also support advanced technologies such as Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) and beamforming. These techniques allow base stations to transmit focused signal beams toward specific users rather than broadcasting signals in all directions. The result is improved signal strength, higher data rates, and better spectrum efficiency.
Some of the key functions performed by the RU include:
RF signal amplification
Frequency conversion
Digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital conversion
Beamforming and antenna control
Signal filtering and noise reduction
Because the RU is located at the cell site, it must also be designed to operate in challenging environmental conditions. Equipment must withstand extreme temperatures, weather exposure, and power fluctuations while maintaining reliable performance.
As part of the 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits, the RU connects to the DU through a high-speed interface known as the fronthaul network. This connection must provide extremely low latency and high bandwidth to support real-time radio processing.
Architecture Layers in 5G gNB
To fully understand how a gNB operates, it is essential to examine the protocol stack that defines communication between network components. The 5G architecture follows a layered model similar to earlier wireless technologies but introduces several enhancements to support new services and higher data rates.
The gNB protocol stack is divided into multiple layers, each responsible for specific tasks in the communication process. These layers ensure that data transmitted from a user device reaches the core network efficiently and securely.
The primary layers include:
Layer | Key Function |
SDAP | QoS flow mapping |
PDCP | Packet compression and encryption |
RLC | Data segmentation and retransmission |
MAC | Scheduling and multiplexing |
PHY | Physical signal transmission |
Each of these layers contributes to the overall performance of the network. Some layers handle user data, while others manage control signaling and network coordination.
Understanding these layers is important when studying 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits, because different split options separate these layers between the CU and DU. This separation determines how much processing happens at the central data center versus the edge of the network.
Control Plane vs User Plane
One of the most important concepts in telecom networks is the separation between the control plane and the user plane. These two planes perform different roles in the network but must work together seamlessly.
The control plane manages signaling operations such as device registration, authentication, mobility management, and connection setup. It ensures that user devices can connect to the network and move between cells without losing connectivity.
The user plane, on the other hand, carries actual user data such as video streams, voice calls, and internet traffic. Its primary goal is to deliver data quickly and efficiently with minimal latency.
Separating these planes provides several advantages:
Improved scalability
Better network optimization
Enhanced security
Efficient traffic management
In modern RAN architectures, different components of the control and user planes may be processed in different network locations. This separation allows operators to optimize network performance based on application requirements.
Protocol Stack in gNB
The protocol stack within the gNB ensures smooth communication between the user equipment and the core network. Each layer plays a unique role in managing data flow, error correction, and resource allocation.
For example, the PDCP layer performs header compression and encryption to improve data efficiency and security. The RLC layer manages data segmentation and retransmission to ensure reliable communication. Meanwhile, the MAC layer handles scheduling and multiplexing of data streams.
At the lowest level, the physical layer (PHY) deals with modulation, coding, and radio signal transmission. This layer interacts directly with the Radio Unit and antenna system.
Because these layers are modular, telecom engineers can implement different function split options depending on network requirements. Some splits keep most processing centralized, while others distribute it closer to the radio hardware.
This flexibility is a key reason why modern telecom networks can support diverse applications ranging from high-speed mobile broadband to mission-critical industrial automation.
What Are Function Splits in 5G Networks
As telecom networks evolve toward more flexible and scalable architectures, one of the most transformative ideas introduced in 5G is the concept of function splitting. Instead of processing all base station tasks at a single location, operators can divide the processing responsibilities across different units in the network. This design approach is a central element of 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits, enabling efficient network deployment and improved performance.
In traditional cellular networks such as 2G, 3G, and even early 4G deployments, base stations typically handled all protocol processing locally. While this worked for earlier generations with lower traffic demands, it became inefficient for modern networks where data volumes and processing requirements have increased dramatically.
Function splitting addresses this problem by distributing tasks across the Central Unit (CU), Distributed Unit (DU), and Radio Unit (RU). Each component processes specific layers of the protocol stack. By doing this, operators gain more flexibility in deciding where processing should take place. For example, high-level tasks like packet routing can be centralized in data centers, while time-sensitive operations such as scheduling and modulation remain closer to the antenna.
This architecture offers several key advantages:
Reduced operational costs by centralizing processing resources
Improved network scalability as operators can expand capacity without installing full base stations
Lower latency for critical applications by keeping real-time functions at the network edge
Better support for cloud-based RAN deployments
Function splitting also plays a major role in enabling Open RAN (O-RAN) and virtualized RAN (vRAN) technologies. These architectures allow operators to mix and match hardware and software from different vendors rather than relying on proprietary end-to-end solutions from a single manufacturer.
For telecom engineers and students preparing for careers in the industry, understanding 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits is essential. As networks move toward software-driven and cloud-native infrastructure in 2026, professionals with expertise in these architectures will be in high demand across telecom operators, equipment vendors, and system integrators.
Why Function Splits Are Necessary
The growing complexity of modern wireless networks makes function splitting not just useful but necessary. With billions of connected devices and applications demanding ultra-low latency, centralized processing alone cannot meet performance requirements.
One major reason function splits are important is latency management. Certain network functions must operate within extremely short time frames—sometimes less than a millisecond. If these operations were handled in distant centralized data centers, the delay introduced by data transmission would degrade performance significantly.
Another reason is efficient resource utilization. Centralized processing allows telecom operators to pool computing resources, meaning multiple base stations can share the same processing infrastructure. This approach reduces hardware costs and improves energy efficiency.
Function splits also enable advanced network features such as:
Coordinated Multi-Point (CoMP) transmission
Dynamic spectrum sharing
Centralized mobility management
AI-driven network optimization
These capabilities allow operators to deliver better performance and higher data speeds to users.
From a business perspective, function splits also make networks future-proof. Instead of replacing entire base stations during upgrades, operators can simply update specific software components within the architecture. This approach significantly reduces capital expenditures while enabling faster technology adoption.
In the broader telecom ecosystem, function splits also promote innovation. Because network components can be developed independently, new vendors can enter the market and introduce specialized solutions. This competitive environment accelerates technological advancement and reduces equipment costs for operators.
Impact on Latency and Performance
Latency is one of the most critical performance metrics in modern telecommunications. Applications such as autonomous vehicles, remote surgery, and industrial automation require extremely fast response times. Even a delay of a few milliseconds can affect reliability and safety.
The design of 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits directly influences network latency and performance. By strategically placing certain processing functions closer to the radio hardware, operators can minimize delays caused by data transmission between network components.
For example, the Distributed Unit (DU) handles time-sensitive tasks such as scheduling and Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ). These processes must occur almost instantly to maintain reliable communication with user devices. Keeping these operations at the edge ensures rapid response times and stable connections.
On the other hand, higher-layer functions handled by the Central Unit (CU) do not require such strict timing constraints. These tasks can safely run in centralized data centers where computing resources are abundant.
The balance between centralized and distributed processing creates an optimized network architecture capable of delivering both high performance and operational efficiency.
The table below illustrates how different split configurations affect network performance:
Split Type | Processing Location | Latency Requirement | Deployment Use Case |
High-layer split | Mostly centralized | Moderate latency | Cloud RAN |
Mid-layer split | Edge + centralized | Low latency | Urban networks |
Low-layer split | Mostly edge-based | Ultra-low latency | Industrial applications |
This flexible architecture allows telecom operators to tailor their networks based on specific use cases. For example, dense urban environments may require more edge processing to support thousands of connected devices within a small area.
Types of 5G Function Split Options
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has defined multiple functional split options for 5G networks. These options describe how protocol layers are divided between the CU, DU, and RU. Each split option offers different trade-offs in terms of performance, latency, and deployment complexity.
In practice, operators choose the split option that best fits their infrastructure strategy and service requirements. Some prefer centralized architectures for cost efficiency, while others prioritize edge processing for ultra-low latency applications.
The most commonly used split options in commercial deployments include Option 2, Option 7, and Option 8. Each of these represents a different level of separation within the protocol stack.
Understanding these split options is a critical part of mastering 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits, especially for engineers involved in network design and deployment.
Option 2 – PDCP-RLC Split
Option 2 is one of the most widely adopted functional split options in 5G networks. In this configuration, the split occurs between the PDCP layer and the RLC layer. The PDCP layer resides in the Central Unit, while the RLC and lower layers are handled by the Distributed Unit.
This approach allows operators to centralize higher-layer processing while keeping time-sensitive operations closer to the radio hardware. Because PDCP functions such as header compression and encryption are less latency-sensitive, they can be processed in centralized cloud environments.
Option 2 offers several advantages:
Simplified fronthaul requirements
Easier integration with cloud infrastructure
Efficient centralized network management
Many operators deploying virtualized RAN (vRAN) solutions use Option 2 because it aligns well with software-based architectures.
Option 7 – PHY Layer Split
Option 7 is a more advanced split configuration where the physical layer itself is divided between the Distributed Unit and the Radio Unit. In this setup, part of the PHY processing occurs in the DU, while the remaining tasks are handled by the RU.
This split provides a balance between centralized processing and real-time performance. Because the RU performs some physical layer functions, it can support advanced radio features such as beamforming and Massive MIMO more efficiently.
However, Option 7 requires high-capacity fronthaul networks because large volumes of data must be transmitted between the DU and RU. This often requires fiber connections with extremely low latency.
Despite these requirements, many modern Open RAN deployments use Option 7 because it offers a good compromise between flexibility and performance.
Option 8 – RF and PHY Split
Option 8 represents the most traditional base station architecture. In this configuration, the split occurs between the RF layer and the physical layer, meaning almost all processing is performed centrally.
This approach closely resembles earlier cellular architectures where baseband units handled most processing tasks while radio units primarily transmitted RF signals.
While Option 8 simplifies radio hardware, it places significant demands on the fronthaul network because raw radio signals must be transported between components.
As networks evolve toward more distributed architectures, Option 8 is becoming less common in large-scale deployments.
Benefits of gNB Function Splits for Operators
From a telecom operator’s perspective, the adoption of function splits provides several strategic advantages. First, it allows networks to be scaled more efficiently as user demand increases. Instead of deploying complete base stations at every location, operators can expand capacity by adding processing resources to centralized data centers.
Another benefit is cost reduction. Centralized processing reduces the amount of expensive hardware required at cell sites. Maintenance and upgrades also become easier because software updates can be deployed centrally.
Function splits also support innovation and vendor diversity. Open architectures enable operators to integrate equipment from multiple vendors, reducing reliance on proprietary systems.
These advantages are a major reason why the global telecom industry is rapidly adopting 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits as a standard design principle.
Deployment Models of gNB Architecture
Two deployment models dominate modern 5G RAN implementations:
Model | Description |
Cloud RAN (C-RAN) | Centralized processing in cloud data centers |
Open RAN (O-RAN) | Multi-vendor interoperable architecture |
Both models rely heavily on function splitting to achieve their goals of flexibility and scalability.
Career Opportunities in 5G RAN Technologies
The telecom industry is experiencing rapid growth as networks evolve toward 5G and future 6G technologies. This transformation has created a massive demand for skilled professionals who understand RAN architecture, network virtualization, and wireless protocols.
Engineers with expertise in RAN deployment, optimization, protocol testing, and network automation are particularly sought after. Companies such as Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, Huawei, Qualcomm, and major telecom operators constantly recruit professionals with these skills.
For students looking to enter this field, gaining hands-on training is extremely important. Real-world telecom networks are complex, and theoretical knowledge alone is often not enough to secure a job.
Role of Apeksha Telecom and Bikas Kumar Singh in Telecom Training
If you are planning a career in telecom technologies like 4G, 5G, and upcoming 6G networks, Apeksha Telecom is widely recognized as one of the best training platforms in India and globally. The organization has helped thousands of telecom engineers build successful careers in the wireless industry.
Under the leadership of Bikas Kumar Singh, Apeksha Telecom has built a reputation for delivering highly practical training programs focused on real telecom technologies rather than purely theoretical concepts.
Some reasons why many telecom professionals choose Apeksha Telecom include:
Hands-on training on 4G, 5G, and emerging 6G technologies
Industry-oriented curriculum
Real network deployment and optimization knowledge
Global telecom job opportunities
Career mentorship and guidance
Apeksha Telecom is also known for its strong commitment to student success. It is among the few telecom training organizations that actively help candidates secure jobs after successful completion of their training programs.
For aspiring engineers, learning advanced topics like 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits from experienced trainers can significantly improve career prospects in the telecom industry.
Future of gNB Architecture Toward 6G
As telecom research moves toward 6G technology, the architecture of base stations will continue evolving. Future networks are expected to integrate AI-driven automation, terahertz spectrum, and ultra-dense small cell deployments.
The modular design introduced in 5G will likely become even more flexible. Networks will rely heavily on cloud-native infrastructure, edge computing, and AI-powered network optimization.
The principles behind 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits will remain foundational as these next-generation networks emerge.
Conclusion
The telecom industry is undergoing a massive transformation as 5G networks continue expanding worldwide. The introduction of modular base station designs has made 5G gNB Architecture and Function Splits one of the most important concepts for engineers, network planners, and telecom professionals to understand.
By dividing processing tasks between Central Units, Distributed Units, and Radio Units, operators can build networks that are more scalable, flexible, and efficient. These architectures enable technologies like Cloud RAN, Open RAN, and network virtualization, which are shaping the future of global telecommunications in 2026 and beyond.
For individuals aiming to build a career in telecom, gaining practical knowledge of these architectures is essential. Training programs offered by organizations like Apeksha Telecom, led by Bikas Kumar Singh, provide industry-focused learning in 4G, 5G, and 6G technologies, helping engineers secure opportunities in the global telecom sector.
If you want to work on real telecom networks and build a future-proof career, learning advanced RAN technologies today can open doors to some of the most exciting opportunities in the communications industry.
FAQs
1. What is a gNB in 5G?
A gNodeB (gNB) is the base station used in 5G networks. It connects user devices to the 5G core network and manages radio communication.
2. What are function splits in 5G?
Function splits divide base station processing tasks between different network units such as the CU, DU, and RU.
3. Why are function splits important?
They improve scalability, reduce infrastructure costs, and support advanced architectures like Cloud RAN and Open RAN.
4. Which function split is most common?
Option 2 (PDCP-RLC split) is widely used because it supports cloud-based network deployments.
5. How can I start a career in 5G telecom?
Learning RAN technologies, network protocols, and real-world deployment techniques through professional telecom training programs is the best starting point.
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