What is RAN?
The Radio Access Network (RAN) is the component of a mobile network that connects User Equipment (UE) to the Core Network via radio links. It encompasses all base stations, antennas, and associated processing functions. In 5G, the RAN is called NG-RAN (Next Generation RAN) and consists of gNBs (5G base stations) and ng-eNBs (upgraded 4G base stations connected to the 5GC).
How Does RAN Work?
The NG-RAN connects to the 5GC via the NG interface: N2 (between gNB and AMF, for control plane signalling via NGAP) and N3 (between gNB and UPF, for GTP-U user plane tunnelling). gNBs connect to each other via the Xn interface for handover coordination. In Open RAN, the RAN is disaggregated into O-CU, O-DU, and O-RU connected by open interfaces.
Use Cases
All wireless connectivity — providing 5G coverage for consumer smartphones, enterprise IoT, private 5G campuses, and fixed wireless access deployments.
3GPP / Standards Reference
3GPP TS 38.300 (NG-RAN Architecture), TS 38.401 (NG-RAN Architecture Description)
Related Terms
gNB | Open RAN | C-RAN | Fronthaul | 5G | Xn Interface
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This glossary entry is part of the 5GWorldPro Complete 5G Glossary. To go deeper into 5G architecture and technology, explore our 5G Training courses.
