Network densification: Challenges and opportunities in enabling 5G

Network densification is an essential mechanism expected to enable next generation 5G networks to meet the highly anticipated 1000-fold increase in capacity. This article examines the challenges facing network densification, in terms of interference, energy and mobility. Moreover, some of the key technologies envisaged as enablers for next generation network densification (i.e., cloud-radio access and user-centric mechanisms, advanced inter-cell interference cancellation techniques, device-to-device communications, caching, and separation of control and user plane) are discussed. The challenges and opportunities facing dense network deployments presented in this work are critical antecedents for the evolutionary stages of developing envisioned 5G networks.