This blog post presents a high-level roadmap for operators looking to develop and implement 5G services. It outlines a three-step process that operators can follow to successfully launch and monetize 5G offerings. The steps include: creating an edge service strategy, on-ramping gradually to 5G simultaneously identifying the most promising use cases, and developing a monetization strategy. By following this approach, operators will be well-equipped to capitalize on the opportunities presented by 5G technology and meet the demands of their customers.
3 major steps in a carriers move to 5G
Step 1 – Introduce Edge Services
These services will coexist with virtualized packet core with 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution). 4G LTE and 5G technologies will continue to evolve and coexist, LTE is making advancements towards the capabilities of 5G, such as faster speeds and lower latencies. One such advancement is the implementation of Gigabit-Class LTE, which utilizes technology that will also be core to 5G. This not only has the potential to greatly improve commercial operations in the present but also to serve as a solid foundation for future private 5G networks.
In the first step the Operator gains operational expertise in running cloud native 5G core and edge. Operators can leverage edge services to enhance the performance and functionality of their customer-facing endpoints. By deploying APIs and tools at locations outside of main data centers, operators can bring data processing, analysis, and storage closer to their customers. This allows for the development of high-performance applications that can process and store data in real-time, resulting in ultra-low latency and intelligent responsiveness. Edge services enable operators to improve the customer experience by delivering faster and more efficient processing of data.
Step 2 – Slow Onramp to 5G
Operators can then use a hyperscaler’s services or their own to create a cost-effective and scalable 5G network infrastructure, beginning with a 5G control plane. The typical 5G network model consists of a 4G/5G radio site, a fronthaul/midhaul/backhaul network, a core network site, and a telecom/IT data center. By utilizing a hyperscaler, operators can reduce upfront investment costs while achieving a flexible network infrastructure. Additionally, the hyperscaler can be used to implement a virtual Network Operation Center (NOC) in the region that hosts the majority of control plane core network functions and the Operations Support System/Business Support System (OSS/BSS), allowing operators to efficiently manage and monitor their 5G network.
Step 3 – Move to full 5G
In the third stage of 5G network deployment, operators can transition to a fully cloud-native architecture for deploying both Edge and 5G networks. This can be done on a hyperscaler platform or on their own extensive private cloud. By implementing a cloud-native 5G network, operators can achieve full automation of operations and network deployment, including the adoption of Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) and other open standards.
The goal of this approach is to enable operators to create innovative new services and respond more quickly to customer demands, while also reducing workloads on architecture, engineering, and operations teams.
Three essential ingredients for this change are:
- Tech Stack Innovation: By utilizing a common cloud architecture across core and edge, operators can promote the adoption of cloud-native network functions (CNFs) and cloud-native architecture among a diverse set of 5G partners and software providers. Further reading – https://www.vamsitalkstech.com/cloud/infographic-how-5g-components-map-to-cloud-architecture/
- Edge Optimization: By utilizing the right mix of hyperscaler resources in regions and in edge locations, operators can address latency-sensitive requirements of 5G applications by deploying them in edge locations, while maintaining central deployment of the rest of 5G core applications in a central location. Further reading – https://www.vamsitalkstech.com/blockchain/a-digital-reference-architecture-for-the-industrial-internet-of-things-iiot/
- Operators can use the hyperscaler clouds to deploy 5G at scale. For instance, by leveraging the capabilities of AWS, DISH was able to quickly architect, design, build, and deliver the first 5G data and voice call using a 5G core platform deployed in the public cloud. This demonstrates the flexibility and scalability of using a cloud-based platform for deploying 5G networks.
Analyst Insights – “Top Industrial and Partner Use Cases for 5G deployments”
Featured Image by Edar from Pixabay