5G and Beyond
Rohit Prasad, Varadharajan Sridhar · 2025
Abstract There are three broad trends that we witness in the evolution of 5G+ networks: (i) the technology shift from hardware to software; (ii) modularisation and virtualisation of software components in cloud infrastructure; and (iii) the rapid evolution of Wi-Fi networks to complement cellular broadband networks. The modularity of the Internet protocol and associated developments, in both hardware and software, have enabled the evolution of open and cloud radio access networks that are being pursued in lieu of proprietary networks for infrastructure enhancement. A unique aspect of 5G networks is the provisioning of customised quality of service, especially for enterprises, using captive non-public networks enabled by 5G technologies such as network slicing. In parallel, the Wi-Fi technologies have also evolved to provide a very high-speed access service to complement the cellular broadband services. These technology changes have also transformed the telecom and Internet value chains, with entry of many software firms that augment the telecom infrastructure with cloud and associated platforms. This chapter provides an overview of these technology evolutions in 5G+ networks.