Automated network slicing–a fully virtualized network infrastructure capable of creating on-demand data pipes that exactly meet the needs of a given application–is a long-term goal of 5G investment. In pursuit of that goal, Verizon recently tested virtualization of the Radio Access Network using Nokia equipment and Intel processors.
Last year Verizon invested in virtualizing its core network, which allows the carrier to swap single-purpose hardware for general purpose boxes, adding flexibility and decreasing cost.
