What is a primary feature of Cloud RAN?

The primary feature of Cloud RAN is the deployment of network functions on standard servers. This approach allows operators to leverage commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware instead of proprietary equipment, which leads to greater flexibility, scalability, and cost efficiency. By utilizing standard servers, Cloud RAN enables easier upgrades and maintenance, as well as the ability to distribute processing closer to the edge of the network, improving performance and reducing latency. This shift towards virtualized resources supports dynamic allocation and enables operators to adapt more readily to changes in network demand.

Other options highlight features that are not central to the Cloud RAN concept. For example, limited network access does not align with Cloud RAN's aim to provide broader connectivity. Integration with legacy systems is more of a consideration during transitions rather than a defining characteristic of Cloud RAN itself. Lastly, offline data processing is not a key feature of Cloud RAN, as the architecture primarily relies on real-time data processing to optimize network performance.