5G Standalone (5G SA) Core creates impact by enabling new services and new efficiencies that deliver 5G’s exciting capabilities and performance levels. In 2023, I worked with communications service providers (CSPs) and hyperscalers committing to 5G Standalone Core solutions, helped the launch of enterprise core solutions, assisted in the proof of concept for Core Software as a Service (SaaS) and worked on significant energy efficiency improvements realized with 5G Core. All these initiatives are expected to gain momentum in the new year along with new trends that I expect to shape the industry.
In 2024, to drive urgently needed progress in CSPs’ and enterprises’ top and bottom lines, I strongly believe that the industry must zero in on specific initiatives and markets, while diligently executing plans across networks, operations and ecosystems. I have analyzed the past year, and looking ahead, I believe the following are the crucial trends that will shape 5G’s growth in 2024 and beyond.
FWA leads the consumer charge
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is 5G’s leading use case for consumers because it quickly and easily delivers high-speed internet access via wireless, ending the need for tedious wired connections. CSPs are ready to use 5G’s low latency and high bandwidth to offer consumers a superb and reliable internet experience. As FWA deployments continue to grow, consumers can enjoy faster internet speeds, reduced latency and improved connectivity. Whether for gaming, 8K video, smart home, or a family’s simultaneous contentious users, 5G FWA ups their home internet experience.
More B2B trials and deployments based on low latency and slicing
5G Standalone is set to revolutionize business operations. I expect CSPs to continue conducting trials and deployments with a focus on network slicing and Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC). 5G SA will be instrumental in developing new business models, improving operational efficiency and creating a competitive advantage for businesses. CSPs’ ability to develop their business market opportunities is imperative for 5G SA to be successful.
New 5G Core SaaS deployment strategies
A new consumption model, Core SaaS, is peeking over the horizon. It offers a unique capability that lets CSPs, enterprises and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) easily scale up for new opportunities. This cloud-based approach offers flexibility and scalability to swiftly adapt to changing market demands. I expect to see new “as a service” usage, such as trials, labs and on-demand network services appear throughout the year.
Key enterprise segments will look to 5G private wireless
Large enterprises, especially public safety agencies and power utility operators, will increasingly adopt the 5G Standalone Core to power private 5G wireless networks. This strategic move brings modern capabilities, performance and reliability to modernize their communications and processes, thereby enhancing operations. As 5G radio coverage becomes more ubiquitous, additional industries will stand to benefit from 5G capabilities and position themselves for improved efficiency and connectivity.
Automation and analytics used to enhance operations and subscribers’ experiences
Intent-based automation, GitOps and analytics are essential components in achieving superior experiences for CSPs’ operations staff and subscribers. AI/ML-based technologies enable CSPs to understand user intentions and optimize network resources accordingly. Subscribers will have access to the bandwidth and services they need, resulting in improved network performance and responsiveness. Predictive analytics further enhances the ability to foresee and address potential network issues, ensuring a seamless experience for users. This will pave the road to a journey towards autonomous operations.
Energy efficiency is imperative
The global shift towards sustainability influences CSPs’ decisions. Energy efficiency is a key consideration along with circularity. CSPs are sustainability (and cost) conscious, guided by government regulations, societal influences, climate impact and energy prices. The ability to dynamically adjust network performance through automation can significantly reduce energy consumption. This not only aligns with environmental goals but also helps CSPs manage energy costs more effectively.
Cloud-native architecture keeps the momentum
I expect cloud-native to continue to be the preferred architecture to accelerate the deployment of network functions, reduce operational costs and enhance performance. The agility and adaptability of cloud-native architecture are key. It enables the decoupling of network functions into microservices, making it easier to develop, deploy and manage them independently. This architecture ensures that CSPs can quickly adapt to changing business requirements.
Service-based architecture improves agility
I see service-based architecture (SBA) as a vital element of the evolving 5G infrastructure. SBA improves the efficiency of resource allocations, expedites service innovation and equips the network with agility for 5G’s dynamic demands (capacity, services, resilience, etc.). The modular components of a service-based architecture streamline network design, making it easier to adapt to evolving technologies and services. This approach ensures that CSPs can keep pace with the ever-changing demands of businesses and consumers.
Multivendor interop maturity reduces complexity
Interoperability is paramount in the 5G ecosystem, and the maturation of 5G’s multivendor interoperability plays a crucial role. This approach pushes the industry toward open standards and interfaces, allowing CSPs to manage and orchestrate across multiple private, public and hybrid cloud systems while controlling costs and ensuring reliability. Businesses can ensure seamless integration and compatibility even in diverse and dynamic network environments, reducing the complexities of managing heterogeneous network components.
As we say goodbye to 2023 and welcome 2024, these key trends serve as guidelines to help service providers navigate the growth of 5G SA throughout the year. The 5G ecosystem is maturing, so the potential for innovative business models, operational efficiencies and enhanced user experiences is boundless.
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