What is a challenge of integrating Cloud RAN with legacy systems?

Integrating Cloud RAN with legacy systems presents significant compatibility issues in hardware and software. This challenge arises because legacy systems often use older technology that may not be compatible with modern cloud-based architectures utilized in Cloud RAN. The differences in protocols, interfaces, and system design can create barriers to seamless integration.

Such compatibility challenges necessitate substantial effort in redesigning or updating existing systems to facilitate communication and proper functionality. This includes ensuring that the software can interact appropriately with legacy hardware and vice versa, which can lead to increased time and financial investment in development and testing.

The integration process may also involve ensuring that new solutions can support older infrastructure while optimizing performance across the entire network. Therefore, the compatibility issues that arise from merging contemporary Cloud RAN technologies with established legacy systems are a prominent challenge faced in this endeavor.