Swisscom and Ericsson are closely collaborating on end-to-end network slicing for critical communications in a joint project to deploy and explore new use cases for 4G and 5G.
The project is based on Ericsson radio access and core networks, and one of the first steps is to test how the functionality can support critical communications over public networks, for example, in the public transport sector.
At Mobile World Congress 2018, the two companies will demonstrate how end-to-end network slicing can be implemented on Ericsson’s 4G and 5G network solutions. The demonstration will use commercially available features in the Ericsson radio access network, such as RAN slicing and Quality of Service control, combined with Ericsson’s core network functionality and Operations Support Systems offering, securing the reliability and performance of applications for critical communications.
To introduce applications for specific industries, Swisscom is planning to evolve its network and infrastructure to support requirements that are different and more stringent compared to traditional mobile broadband needs.
In 2016, Swisscom and Ericsson along with their academic partner, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) launched the '5G for Switzerland’ program.
Heinz Herren, CTO and CIO, Swisscom
With Ericsson’s network slicing functionality and complementing features, we can leverage existing infrastructure and assets. In addition to offering mobile broadband services, we will be able to configure dedicated network slices for various industries, meeting the needs of manufacturing, railway, and public safety companies.
Joakim Sorelius, Head of Product Area Network Systems, Ericsson
Network slicing is crucial to guarantee the performance of critical communications, and it is a key enabler to maximize the full business potential of 5G.
