Network Sharing as applied to 5G allows multiple MNOs to share the same RAN network via different “PLMN IDs”
There are three most common implementations for Network Sharing in 5G:
(1) Passive or Site Sharing
(2) Active RAN sharing
(3) National Roaming or Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO)
(1) Passive or Site Sharing
The physical site and site-related passive elements, such as facilities, towers, feeders, power supplies,
back-up systems and air conditioning are shared. Parts of the mobile backhaul may also be shared. The
main benefits are lower site lease and construction costs. While passive sharing calls for independent
investment for most of the radio and backhaul equipment, it gives each MNO full control of their
resources. Often this is the first step to more complex network sharing arrangements.
(2) Active RAN Sharing
Multi-Operator RAN (MORAN) and Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) go further by sharing most of the radio equipment and its network management system. The difference between MORAN with MOCN is whether the air interface is dedicated or shared. Parts or the entire mobile backhaul and core network may also be shared. This type of network sharing requires joint decision-making on investments and operational aspects.
(3) National Roaming or MVNO
In this type of network sharing, customers of one MNO can roam seamlessly in the “host” operator’s
network. The MNO can be a MVNO with a national roaming agreement or it can also be a MNO with regional roaming agreement, because it is not cost effective to extend its own network to some regions (e.g. rural areas). There are usually no shared assets and the “consumer” simply pays access fees to the “host”.