Self-organizing network

In this type of SON (D-SON), functions are distributed among the network elements at the edge of the network, typically the ENodeB elements. This implies a certain degree of localization of functionality and is normally supplied by the network equipment vendor manufacturing the radio cell.

In centralized SON (C-SON), function is more typically concentrated closer to higher-order network nodes or the network OSS, to allow a broader overview of more edge elements and coordination of e.g. load across a wide geographic area. Due to the need to inter-work with cells supplied by different equipment vendors, C-SON systems are more typically supplied by 3rd parties.

Hybrid SON is a mix of centralized and distributed SON, combining elements of each in a hybrid solution.

Self-configuration strives towards the "plug-and-play" paradigm in the way that new base stations shall automatically be configured and integrated into the network. This means both connectivity establishment, and download of configuration parameters are software. Self-configuration is typically supplied as part of the software delivery with each radio cell by equipment vendors. When a new base station is introduced into the network and powered on, it gets immediately recognized and registered by the network. The neighboring base stations then automatically adjust their technical parameters (such as emission power, antenna tilt, etc.) in order to provide the required coverage and capacity, and, in the same time, avoid the interference.

Every base station contains hundreds of configuration parameters that control various aspects of the cell site. Each of these can be altered to change network behaviour, based on observations of both the base station itself and measurements at the mobile station or handset. One of the first SON features establishes neighbour relations automatically (ANR) while others optimise random access parameters or mobility robustness in terms of handover oscillations. A very illustrative use case is the automatic switch-off of a percent of base stations during the night hours. The neighbouring base station would then re-configure their parameters in order to keep the entire area covered by the signal. In case of a sudden growth in connectivity demand for any reason, the "sleeping" base stations "wake up" almost instantaneously. This mechanism leads to significant energy savings for operators.

When some nodes in the network become inoperative, self-healing mechanisms aim at reducing the impacts from the failure, for example by adjusting parameters and algorithms in adjacent cells so that other nodes can support the users that were supported by the failing node. In legacy networks, the failing base stations are at times hard to identify and a significant amount of time and resources is required to fix it. This function of SON permits to spot such a failing base stations immediately in order to take further measures, and ensure no or insignificant degradation of service for the users.

It is a proactive approach of a system for defending itself from the penetration of any unauthorised user in the system and from any active or passive attack. The main objectives of self-protection are to make the security of the system unbreakable and also make the data confidential and secure.