A panel of technical experts
outlined reasons non-traditional vendors are expected to gain a
foothold in 5G core networks, naming security, adaptability and
pricing models as key reasons for the shift.
Gabriel Sidhom, COO at Orange Silicon Valley, explained
operators want the ability to scale networks up and down by
adding and subtracting new hardware as needed.
He noted said operators have traditionally scaled “vertically”,
meaning they have grown network capacity by investing in
upgrades to existing hardware. “The margin pressure all telcos
have been facing is leading us to look at solutions that are
more elastic”.
“We all saw the revolution in IT and it kind of was the
prerequisite for the revolution we’re seeing in telco right
now”.
Sidhom forecast “more of a software-based pricing model” for
core networks, but warned this will bring “complexities” as
operators licence different network components from various
vendors.
Atila Leao Flores Xavier, architecture and technology innovation
director at TIM Brasil, believes operators understand the
importance of cloud-native software and “the new kids on the
block are bringing that to the table”.
Brian Barritt, engineering manager for Magma at Facebook
Connectivity, named security as a key motivator for a move to
open source software in 5G core networks.
He noted the US Department of Defence is interested in 5G
networks which incorporate security into the development process
rather than adding it to products already created.
Barritt also cited the transparency of open source software as a
key contributor to secure networks.
Boingo Wireless CTO Derek Peterson highlighted non-traditional
vendors are prepared to develop networks which address 5G use
cases. “We are able to build solutions that actually fit the use
cases, instead of trying to make the solutions we have fit”.
Martha DeGrasse - Mobile World |
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