As we step into 2024, making a success of 5G is very much on the agenda. It will be the year where many service providers will transition to a standalone 5G network in order to finally deliver the benefits that have been promoted for so long. Here are five predictions that the BroadForward experts out in the field foresee for the coming year.
#1: 5G Roaming: Unleashing global connectivity
One of the standout predictions for 2024 is the surge in 5G roaming. As the deployment of 5G standalone networks continue to gain momentum worldwide, the demand for seamless (inter)national connectivity is becoming increasingly apparent. We are already experiencing a high demand for 5G roaming trials with our SEPP, many of which leading to commercial launches, enabling the full benefits of 5G even while crossing networks and borders. Telecom operators and especially IPX providers will play a crucial role in facilitating these advancements, enabling a global ecosystem for 5G roaming. This not only enhances user experience but also opens up new revenue opportunities for operators and enterprises who can capitalize on the growing demand for uninterrupted connectivity on a global scale.
#2: IoT adoption: Driving Core Network evolution
The Internet of Things (IoT) is set to continue the trend of rapid growth in 2024, driving parallel demand for integrated core network solutions from IoT carriers and providers of global cellular connectivity solutions. The challenge of these connectivity providers is to ensure they can continue to offer affordable and full connectivity across for 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G while balancing high operating costs with relatively low margins.
Connectivity providers will therefore increasingly turn to integrated core network solutions that not only can run in the cloud, but also simultaneously facilitate support for both next generation and legacy networks needed by IoT applications to rely on.
#3: Cloud adoption for 5G Core: Transitioning to hyperscaler architectures
As the industry continues its march towards a more interconnected and virtualized future, the adoption of cloud technologies for 5G Core functions will accelerate. Telecom operators will consider cloud deployment options both on and off premise, using multiple service providers (multi-cloud), such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud and others, not just for hosting 5G elements, but for a comprehensive transition of key network functions from multiple generations to the cloud.
The move to a cloud-based 5G Core infrastructure provides operators with increased scalability, flexibility, and efficiency. However, it also presents challenges related to legacy support, security, interoperability, and regulatory compliance. As the industry navigates this transition, collaborations between telecom operators, infrastructure vendors and cloud service providers will be crucial in addressing these challenges and ensuring a smooth migration to a cloud-native architecture.
#4: Rationalization: Streamlining operations for efficiency
In the pursuit of operational efficiency and cost reduction, telecom operators will continue their efforts in rationalizing their networks in 2024. This involves the ongoing shutdown and replacement of legacy systems that are resource-intensive and less adaptable to the demands of modern telecommunications. Case in point is the growing trend of combined DRA and STP deployments in a cloud-native architecture, according to the standards of today, which we expect will continue in 2024.
These types of rationalization enable operators to streamline their operations, reduce maintenance costs, and pave the way for the deployment of more advanced technologies. This shift towards a leaner infrastructure is proven to be essential for operators to stay competitive, meet evolving customer expectations, and allocate resources towards innovation and service improvement.
#5: Security: Guiding principle are here to stay
The focus on security in mobile networks and services is set to continue to make the headlines. With users, standardization bodies, and governments becoming increasingly concerned on security, telecom operators will channel more investments into the latest, cross-technology solutions, with focus in 2024 on firewalls, device- and user authentication.
As the threat landscape evolves, telecom operators will more and more proactively address vulnerabilities to safeguard user data and the integrity of their networks. The implementation of advanced security measures will not only be a regulatory requirement, but it is now widely recognized as a critical component in retaining consumer trust.
In conclusion, 2024 promises to be a pivotal year for the telecom industry, marked by transformative shifts in technology, notably to 5G Standalone networks, with security as the guiding principle.
