Spectrum Sharing & Affordable Broadband in 5G

The 5th generation wireless ICT eco-system is being standardized with 3 important pillars of innovation: (a) Low latency, (b) Enhanced gigabits wireless broadband and (c) massive machine type communication. 5G is expected to transform the way humans and devices communicate and exchange services and automation of industry. The aim of this paper is to extend recent research in unlicensed wireless technologies, including current 5G research activities to develop use cases and associated technologies to address the requirements of affordable wireless broadband The ITU broadband commission clearly indicates the need for affordable broadband connectivity and provision of ICT based societal services in emerging markets and specifically rural communities. The three aspects are spectrum sharing including unlicensed spectrum networks, energy efficiency including green networking and the promise of network infrastructure cost reduction by SDN/NFV technologies. In this paper the first aspect on spectrum sharing for 5G and affordable networks will be discussed with a network test-bed developed as proof of concept. Finally the paper will conclude with a challenge to existing and future research in technology standards for 5G to contribute towards the achievement of universal affordable broadband for the next billion customers.