Introduction

32.1303GPPConcepts and requirementsNetwork sharingRelease 17Telecommunication managementTS

Network sharing is emerging as a mechanism for operators to substantially and sustainably improve network costs and to efficiently utilize network capacity. The traditional model of single ownership of all network layers and elements is being challenged and more and more operators are adopting network sharing as a means of cutting the heavy costs involved in initial roll-out, capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX).

In general, an increasing number of operators are sharing their mobile networks. Main arguments presented are:

– Increased rollout speed.

– Quickly expanding coverage to meet customer demand for wider coverage.

– Sharing low traffic areas.

– Sharing high license burdens.

– Lower CAPEX and OPEX.

Network sharing has some major implications on the operations of the network. Alignment on operational priorities, common network planning/evolution strategy, sharing end user data/subscriber data, sharing performance data, alarms etc. in the shared network need to be considered carefully. Privacy, security and competitive information are also important for the operations of a shared network.