5G DRIVE (Diversified oRAN Integration & Vendor Evaluation) was funded by the Department for Science Innovation & Technology (DSIT) under the Future RAN Competition (FRANC) programme. It developed a low-cost, secure 5G Diversified Open RAN Integration solution for private mobile networks. This solution integrates seamlessly with public networks using modern internet protocols.
- DSIT funding: £2.9m
- Partner funding: £2.2m
- Project dates: 01/01/2022 - 31/07/2024
- Locations: Reading (multiple sites across Wales and Scotland
- Project Partners: VMO2, Wavemobile, Ori, Cisco, WMG University of Warwick
The collaborating partners included Virgin Media O2, Wavemobile Ltd, Cisco, Ori Industries, and the University of Warwick (WMG), the project was able to bridge both industry and academia.
The core objective was to provide a straightforward method for integrating private indoor networks into public 5G mobile networks. This was achieved using a common, well-understood interface that minimised the need for significant operator engagement, resources, or costs.
Key Achievements:
- Developed a scalable, cost-effective, and agile method for integrating Private Networks into Mobile Network Operators using the Secure Edge Protection Proxy / Internetwork Packet Exchange (SEPP) SEPP/IPX N32 platform. The system used flexible software to manage network operations and connected to a 5G core that handles data and services. It tested secure communication between different network parts, focusing on encryption and message protection. The goal was to ensure safe data exchange and explore how messages could be modified or safeguarded from tampering.
- Successfully delivered 30 small cells to remote rural locations in Wales, Scotland and England, providing voice and data services, including 999 calls.
- Enhanced the 5G new radio roaming architecture with the Secure Edge Protection Proxy (SEPP), ensuring secure and scalable interconnectivity between 5G networks.
- In October 2023, the project was showcased at Harwell Science Park in Didcot. This event highlighted the SEPP and N32 interface. The showcase also featured presentations, holographic panellists, and trials of an Autonomous Transport System.
Consortium Contributions:
- Wavemobile: Provided test core & radio networks and the roaming SEPP/IPX/N32 interface.
- Ori: Delivered the Multi-Access Edge Compute (MEC) for system testing.
- Cisco: Deployed its 5G core to showcase critical security and scaling capabilities.
- WMG University of Warwick: Conducted the security review of the system design.
- VMO2: Managed the project and finances, and handled public relations.
The 5G DRIVE project set a new standard in network integration, ensuring that private networks could seamlessly and securely connect with public 5G networks, ultimately benefiting businesses and consumers alike. To read more about the project and its findings please look at its final report here
