Most operators still run extensive legacy RAN footprints and modernisation remains essential for capacity growth and cost control. What are the available strategies for upgrading without large-scale rip-and-replace programmes? How can enhanced self-organising networks (SON) or service management and orchestration (SMO) capabilities, together with energy-saving automation and other performance tools and techniques, extend the useful life of existing RAN deployments? Is there a practical blueprint for operators seeking measurable performance and efficiency gains while preparing their networks for AI-enabled evolution?

Recorded March 2026