  The fifth-generation mobile evolution enables transformations on
Next-Generation Radio Access Networks (NG-RAN). The RAN protocol stack is split
into eight disaggregated options combined in three network units, i.e.,
Central, Distributed, and Radio. Besides that, further advances allow the RAN
functions to be virtualized on top of general-purpose hardware, using the
concept of virtualized RAN (vRAN). The Combination of NG-RAN and vRAN results
in vNG-RAN, which enables the management of the disaggregated units and
protocols as a set of radio functions. However, the orchestration-based
placement of these radio functions is a challenging issue since the best
decision can be determined by multiple constraints involving RAN
disaggregation, crosshaul networks requirements, availability of computational
resources, etc. This article proposes OPlaceRAN, a vNG-RAN deployment
orchestrator framed within the NFV reference architecture and aligned with the
Open RAN initiative. OPlaceRAN supports the dynamic placement of radio
functions focusing on vNG-RAN planning and is designed to be agnostic to the
placement optimization model. To validate OPlaceRAN, we developed a prototype
based on up-to-date cloud-native tools to deploy RAN using containerized
virtualization using the OpenAirInterface emulator and considering two distinct
functional splits (options 2 and 6). The evaluation is tested as
proofs-of-concept in a real computing infrastructure using two different
placement solutions. Our results reveal that OPlaceRAN is an effective
cloud-native solution for containerized network functions placement and
agnostic to the optimization model. Additionally, OPlaceRAN is up-to-date with
the most advanced vNG-RAN design and development approaches, contributing to
the evolution of the fifth-generation of mobile networks.

Networking and Internet Architecture