On Big Data Analytics for Greener and Softer RAN

Big data analytics applied to signaling, traffic, and wireless environment data in mobile communication networks can help realize autonomous network optimization and build big data-based network operation. In this paper, a signaling-based intelligent network optimization scheme is introduced and applied to the current mobile communication networks, such as 4G Long Term Evolution. In 5G era, big data analytics can help mine user and service requirements from the radio access network level, thus allowing a more efficient 5G design and operation. This paper illustrates how it would significantly facilitate local content provision, dynamical network and functionality deployment, user behavior awareness, fine-tuned network operation, and globally optimized energy saving solutions. It is anticipated that the big data-based 5G network design, and the operation will be greener and softer, and better meet the ever increasing user-centric requirements of mobile communication.