FCC Plans March 26 Forum on 5G Network Virtualization

The FCC plans a March 26 forum on 5G virtualized radio access networks, Chairman Ajit Pai said Thursday. “At the forum, experts at the forefront of the development and deployment of interoperable, standards-based, virtualized radio access networks will join Chairman Pai and other Commission staff to discuss this paradigm-shifting approach to 5G network deployment,” the FCC said. Pai said the FCC is focused on 5G: “One way to advance this priority is through the development and deployment of more secure, cost-effective 5G network components, Virtualized radio access networks could help us do that.” Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel wants more focus on the security benefits of network virtualization (see 1910230060). “Glad the FCC is following my lead,” Rosenworcel tweeted: “Next up: let's have the FCC set up testbeds to accelerate this technology in the United States.” The forum starts at 9:30 a.m. in the Commission Meeting Room.