The University of Glasgow and the University of Surrey have successfully connected both their testbeds and triumphally demonstrated interoperability between the two systems. The interoperability tests were managed and performed by AWTG (Leading 5G System Integrator). It showcases the excellent interworking capabilities that the University of Glasgow and the University of Surrey (5GIC) offers at their state-of-the-art 5G testbeds. The demonstrated interconnection and interoperability tests confirm the evolution of both testbeds and the value their established partnership offers the 5G ecosystem. The verification of interoperability between the RAN and Core network at both locations highlights additional capabilities both testbeds offer to vendors for verifying solutions and interoperability with other vendors. It builds on the excellent work and collaboration opportunities offered to partners on 5G innovation, Use Cases Assurance and Application Development.

AWTG are keen to highlight the excellent performance results recorded during the interoperability tests. It proves the excellent quality of service already established in the 5G system deployed by the University of Glasgow and the high-spec best-in-class 5G Core network developed by the University of Surrey (5GIC). The Radio Access network deployed by the University of Glasgow was connected to the 5G Standalone Core Network at the University of Surrey’s 5G Innovation Centre (5GIC). The successful 5GIC interoperability test was conducted with the remote Core located at the University of Surrey (Guildford) whilst connected via a VPN to the University of Glasgow’s testbed (RAN AWTG reported an uncomplicated implementation of a secured backhaul connection that joined up both testbeds. The successful interoperability and interconnection tests demonstrate the collaborative opportunities that both testbeds present to both universities and their partners. The connectivity and interoperability tests were performed within a week which underlines AWTG’s ability to manage, execute and perform testbed connectivity, integration and interoperability tests within very short timescales. The connectivity of both testbeds expresses the flexibility and variety of the technology service offered to Industry and academic partners to make use of the testbed.