OpeNB: A framework for virtualizing base stations in LTE networks

In this paper, we present a novel framework for virtualizing the Long Term Evolution (LTE) base stations to improve the user performance and lower the downlink interference. Our proposal, referred to as “OpeNB”, is an attempt to utilize the benefits of Software Defined Networking (SDN) and OpenFlow, introducing network virtualization in LTE networks with an adaptable, highly extensible, and less invasive manner. The proposed solution consists of a novel network architecture and a mechanism that allows the virtualization of LTE base stations depending on the network state. Simulation results show that the proposed framework improves the average interference, throughput and packet loss experienced by the end users.