As the demand for faster and more reliable wireless connections continues to increase, there is a growing need for improved wireless network infrastructure. From enhancing coverage and bandwidth to reducing latency and interference, there are many areas in which wireless networks can be optimized to deliver better performance and user experience.
I spoke recently with Jason Inskeep, Assistant Vice President for AT&T’s 5G Center of Excellence, focusing on Private Cellular Networks, MEC, and the Edge.
The Growth of 5G and its Impact on Industry
We started our conversation at a basic level – talking about 5G and other wireless technologies and what various enterprises need to use to be successful. Jason emphasized that the arrival of 5G does not immediately displace other technologies – it’s not a 5G versus others conversation. It’s determining the right mix of network, which could entail 5G, other cellular, Wi-Fi, other unlicensed means, and fiber in the ground. Enterprises need to not only meet the needs of the day but take them to the runway and ramp up into the future.
Jason’s Corollary to Metcalfe’s Law
Metcalfe’s law refers to the value of a computer or telecommunications network and states that its impact is proportional to the square of the number of nodes. Jason’s corollary says that the value of a network is proportional to the number of use cases on it, meaning that as additional use cases are added to a network, its value grows far more than linearly. With that in mind, customers need to consider the different user groups and what use cases each group will use. Jason told us that the topology involved in these kinds of projects looks at one, who will own the data; two, who are the user groups that will own the data; and three, what is being done with the data. Knowing these, the proper type of network foundation can be determined.
A Few Important Things to Consider
Jason pointed out that spectrum is the finite resource on any wireless network, so what spectrum you have and what you plan to do with it are vital factors. An unlicensed spectrum provides better battery life but a riskier jitter factor. Cellular, or licensed spectrum, gives a better risk factor with lower jitter but worse battery life. Tradeoffs are inevitable.
Network programmability is becoming increasingly important. As we move to an SA core, you will start seeing things like network APIs become more available, and applications will become more dynamic. What that means is a little vague, but you will get some sort of feedback loop on what the network is doing, then they will make their application adjust. With bi-directionality, its application informs the network, and networks inform applications.
Jason also pointed out that with networks, you’re not just building for a year. You should plan for the next 5-7 years and anticipate where technology will go.
How Different Environments Have Different Requirements
Having worked in the industry for many years, Jason has seen various site types and knows each type has different needs. For example, with a refinery, it’s mostly outdoors and heavily industrial. The site owns the data created, and they only have to think about their own people, processes, and security. However, when looking at a stadium or city environment, they’re also mostly outdoors, but there are significant differences. In these environments, the space doesn’t own the data; the data is owned by other entities that are part of the space. For example, consumers can’t be told which device to use in a stadium or city environment. In that case, the network planners may choose to make a more significant investment in Wi-Fi, hoping the carriers will bring the cellular network for them. Other considerations can involve whether the devices need to leave a designated area, whether the users are nomadic or fixed, and how much is outdoor versus indoors.
Words of Wisdom For CIOs
I asked Jason if there were any tips he would give enterprise CIOs. He said to find a formula that works to evaluate not just how one use case would work but how you create your network-based foundation. He refers to it as a six-way match, looking at device, spectrum, access type, transport, core, and applications. If you move the dials on any of these, you must determine how it will affect the downstream flow. Think about how you maximize control, maximize capacity, and maximize the time horizon. It’s not an easy conversation with customers, but done right, especially for larger sites, there is more opportunity for scale over the most extended time horizon.
To learn more about 5G and security, listen to the podcast hosted by Ashish Jain, CEO and Co-founder, PrivateLTEand5G.com and KAIROS Pulse.
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