anyRAN

What is anyRAN?
Nokia anyRAN is an approach that provides the widest choice of strategic options for RAN evolution. It enables selecting multiple suppliers for both vertical and horizontal layers of RAN.
The anyRAN approach supports mobile network operators as they evolve their networks to hybrid RAN environments with purpose-built Nokia AirScale RAN and Nokia Cloud RAN. Common Nokia RAN software across all architecture options ensures feature and performance consistency.
Our anyRAN provides true flexibility and openness for RAN evolution. With an extensive partner ecosystem, we provide a diverse and competitive choice of technology options. This allows customers to select the solution components that best fit their business targets.
- Technology evolution – Your network, your way
- What is a hybrid RAN architecture?
- What is the difference between Cloud RAN and Open RAN?
- Build your network evolution with anyRAN
- What are the benefits of anyRAN?
- What are operators’ RAN evolution strategies?
- What are the benefits of anyRAN partner ecosystem?
- Amplify your knowledge
- Learn more
Technology evolution - Your network, your way
Cloud RAN market is set to capture 20-25% of the RAN market by 2028 according to Dell’Oro
36% of respondents at Nokia Radio World want to introduce cloud technology in their RAN by 2028
20% of respondents at Nokia Radio World felt that AI and RAN multi-cloud infrastructure is the biggest motivation for RAN cloudification.
What is a hybrid RAN architecture?
A hybrid RAN architecture is a combination of purpose-built RAN, Cloud RAN and Open RAN deployments. Mobile network operators can choose the RAN architecture that best suits their business strategy.
The Nokia anyRAN approach ensures feature and performance consistency in hybrid RAN environments from day 1. It offers investment protection to our customers.
What is the difference between Cloud RAN and Open RAN?
The difference between Cloud RAN and Open RAN is:
- Cloud RAN focuses on virtualized RAN functions that are deployed on cloud infrastructure.
- Open RAN emphasizes open, standardized interfaces to enable interoperability between components from different suppliers.
The basic principle of Cloud RAN is the vertical disaggregation of RAN. It means that RAN baseband software is separated from the baseband processing infrastructure. This enables the use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware combined with Containers-as-a-Service (CaaS) software layer or public cloud infrastructure.
Open RAN refers to the horizontal disaggregation of RAN that leverages standardized RAN interfaces. An important interface is the Open Fronthaul between the radio units and the baseband. Standardized interfaces are critical for interoperability and seamless integration of different suppliers’ components.
Operators can implement Open RAN on top of a Cloud RAN or a purpose-built RAN deployment.
Build your network evolution with anyRAN
Our solutions give you freedom of choice to implement a multi-supplier approach in both vertical and horizontal layers of RAN, paving a safe evolution path to next-generation cloud and AI-RAN.

Cloud RAN
Build a smooth RAN cloudification journey with a trusted partner to transform your business.
Open RAN
Deploy open, interoperable and future-proof networks that support your business strategy.


AI-RAN
Unlock more business opportunities and enhanced efficiencies by combining the synergies of AI, RAN and cloud.
AirScale Radio Access
Ensure feature and performance consistency for all RAN architectures.


MantaRay NM
Manage your network with a unified, intelligent solution supporting all radio and mobile core technologies.
What are the benefits of anyRAN?
The benefits of anyRAN for mobile operators include:
- Safe investment
- True flexibility in choice of suppliers and components
- Faster deployments, maintenance and network upgrades
- Faster introduction of cloud-based services to the market
- Scaling network capacity dynamically and efficiently, according to the traffic and service demands
- Optimal use of resources and infrastructure
- Simplifying and automating network operations
What are mobile operators’ RAN evolution strategies?
Mobile operators’ RAN evolution strategies are explained in our videos. Watch the videos to hear insights from mobile operators worldwide.
Nokia is a trusted partner and supplier for our customers. We support their RAN evolution with our future-proof anyRAN approach based on their preferred business strategy.
What are the benefits of anyRAN partner ecosystem?
The benefits of anyRAN partner ecosystem are explained in our videos. Watch the videos to hear insights from leading technology companies.
Amplify your knowledge

Triangulates
Watch our Triangulates series on how innovative technologies can help your business.

Tech Winter Horizon 2024: AI-RAN
Watch our Tech Winter Horizon event with industry perspectives on AI-RAN.

Advanced 5G
Enhance performance, unlock new revenue opportunities and optimize network efficiency with 5G-Advanced.

Nokia subscription center
Subscribe to marketing communications from Nokia.
More questions?
Related solutions and products
Solution
A 5G ready radio access system, providing connectivity and capacity needed for the Internet of Things.
Solution
Build a smooth RAN cloudification journey with a trusted partner to transform your business.
Product
Open RAN compliant programmability and AI/ML-based innovation.
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