Modularizing the Virtual Distributed Unit: Enabling Efficiency in Cloud-Native 5G RAN

Abstract:
This paper introduces a function-oriented decomposition strategy for virtualized Distributed Units (vDUs) in 5G Cloud RAN architectures, addressing the challenges of monolithic vDUs such as scalability limitations and resource inefficiencies. The proposed modular architecture enhances scalability, reduces service latency, and optimizes resource utilization by transforming monolithic vDU functionalities into independent microservices aligned with cloud-native principles. Flexible deployment strategies enable tailored solutions for diverse use cases, while seamless integration into evolving RAN ecosystems ensures compatibility with existing and future networks. A proof-of-concept (PoC) validates the architecture's feasibility, achieving microsecond-level precision and highlighting the potential of modular RAN designs to meet the dynamic demands of 5G and pave the way for 6G advancements.