The global cloud radio access network (C-RAN) market is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period (2021-2027). Cloud RAN is a centralized, cloud computing-based architecture for RAN that enables the large-scale deployment having collaborative radio technology support coupled with real-time virtualization capabilities. It uses the latest common public radio interface (CPRI) standard, coarse or dense wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM / DWDM) technology, and millimeter wave (mmWave) transmission for long-distance signals. Some factors driving the market growth include an increase in network congestion owing to a surge in smartphone usage, rising data traffic, and 4G & 5G accessibility among end-users. Moreover, operators are extensively adopting cloud RAN technology to reduce capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX) which is further supplementing the market growth. 

The advent of 5G technology across the globe has further escalated the demand for cloud RAN technology. 5G technology is gaining traction at a rapid pace which is generating immense demand for cloud RAN during recent years. The growing demand for high-speed data with low latency and rapidly increasing use of services and applications that are data-heavy has bolstered the demand for 5G networks, which in turn, is driving the demand for cloud RAN. The application of 5G technology extends beyond traditional telecom and mobile internet. Its application in the industrial sector for usage in self-driving, remote control, virtual and augmented reality, smart manufacturing, and smart grid boosts the market growth for 5G.

There are several industry players operating in the market which are further influencing the market growth. Some key players operating in the market include Cisco Systems Inc., Nokia Corp., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, and Intel Corp. These players are eyeing to strengthen their position in the market by adopting various strategies such as mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, collaborations, new product launch and development in the existing product portfolio, and so on. For instance, in July 2020, Nokia Corp. announced the collaboration with the US Cellular for the addition of 5G mmWave capabilities in the 24 GHz and 28 GHz spectrum bands, which will also include AirFrame open edge solution for Cloud RAN to provide major benefits which include significant Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) reduction with the help of simplification automation and operational efficiency gains.

Market Coverage

• The market number available for – 2020-2027
• Base year- 2020
• Forecast period- 2021-2027
• Segment Covered- 

o By Component 

o By Network Type

• Competitive Landscape:  Cisco Systems Inc., Nokia Corp., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, and Intel Corp.

Key questions addressed by the report

• What is the market growth rate?
• Which segment and region dominates the market in base year?
• Which segment and region will project fastest growth in the market?
• How COVID-19 impacted the market?

o Recovery Timeline

o Deviation from pre-COVID forecast

o Most affected region and segment

• Who is the leader in the market?
• How players are addressing challenges to sustain growth?
• Where is the investment opportunity?

Global Cloud RAN Market Report Segmentation

By Component

• Solution

• Service

By Network Type

• 3G

• 4G

• 5G

• LTE

Global Cloud RAN Market Segmentation by Region