It is clear that virtualization will be a significant element of the 5G network picture but there is a serious risk of disconnect between standards work in these two key areas. Carrier network virtualization is increasingly focused on ETSI’s NFV (Network Function Virtualization) specifications, though there are many other relevant activities too, many in the open source arena. This technology is starting to impact on mobile operators’ plans at the 4G stage but is likely to be refined further for 5G platforms – but of course, work on the core air interfaces for 5G is only just beginning, despite the welter of ‘pre-5G’ demonstrations and launches. The latest initiative funded by the huge European Commission 5G PPP (Public-Private Partnership) scheme…