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GOAL 2:
WHAT IS The O-RAN architecture?
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The O-RAN architecture

he O-RAN architecture is well documented in the O-RAN alliance. The key elements
of the O-RAN architecture are:
 Service Management and Orchestration Framework (SMO)—includes an
integration fabric and data services for the functions it manages. It allows
managed functions to interoperate and communicate within the O-RAN.
The SMO connects to and manages the RICs, O-Cloud, the O-CU, and O-
DU.
 RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) – There are two types of RICs – non-real-
time and near-real-time. Both are logical functions for controlling and
optimizing the elements and resources of an O-RAN. A near-real-time RIC
controls and optimizes elements and resources with granular data
collection and communication over the E2 interface. The E2 interface
connects the near-real-time RIC with the O-CU and O-DU.
 O-Cloud is a cloud computing platform made up of the physical
infrastructure nodes using the O-RAN architecture. It also creates and
hosts the various virtual network functions (VNFs) used by the RICs and
other infrastructure elements.
 O-RAN central unit (O-CU) – Logical node that hosts a handful of
protocols, which are the radio resource control (RRC), service data
adaptation protocol (SDAP), and packet data convergence protocol
(PDCP).