Blockchain-Enabled Multi-Operator Small Cell Network for Beyond 5G Systems

Despite increase in deployment of BS, MNOs are still faced with the daunting challenge of providing adequate coverage and capacity in indoor environments. Furthermore, the trust-less environment in which MNOs operate makes it further challenging to achieve interoperability across carriers. Recently the concept of mOs has emerged as a promising solution through deployment of small cells. However, their success has been severely hampered by the absence of a framework for creating and managing business agreements between key stakeholders, i.e., MNOs and mOs. This article proposes a blockchain-enabled SDN approach for managing radio spectrum access between MNOs using smart contracts over small cell networks. Specifically, our solution uses a smart contract to validate transactions between MNOs. Simulation results show that our solution guarantees seamless handoff and high availability between different operators in contrast to a break in connectivity in the absence of an agreement.