Private networks
Automation and digitalization are global trends. In industrial sectors, they are driven primarily through campus and private 5G or LTE networks, which offer improved digitalization, security, and efficiency.
What are private networks?
Private networks (PN) are referred to by several names and variants: dedicated networks (DN), non-public networks (NPN), campus networks (CN), and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). They are self-contained networks that can be deployed almost anywhere as an advantageous alternative to Wi-Fi and public mobile networks. Upcoming 5G versions are set to offer customers increased bandwidth and reduced latency, as well as improved security and reliability. Compared with Wi-Fi, cellular networks and the connected devices can be managed centrally and provide a higher level of security.
Private networks enable organizations and companies to optimize their network, secure data in-house, have better cost management, and support specific service-level agreements (SLAs). This smart connectivity with private cellular networks enables industrial enterprises to unleash the potential of automation, control, and exponential growth.
SIMs and eSIMs in private networks
SIMs and eSIMs are core components that enable reliable mobile connectivity. In private networks, they also guarantee a high level of security, which is required for especially sensitive fields.
The use of eSIM management significantly increases flexibility in these networks and ensures reliable and secure operation for many years. In addition, support for eSIM greatly simplifies the connection of industrial devices in the process.
Trends: 5G
Although Long-Term Evolution (LTE), CBRS, and other private network technologies have been well established in recent years, the next connectivity stage on industry experts’ minds is 5G. The 5G technology offers several advantages, such as higher frequency bands, that make it more attractive for industries and enterprises. In addition, 5G is beneficial because it is more reliable, scalable, and secure than Wi-Fi technology.
In most industrialized countries, many companies are already acquiring licenses for private networks. Similar to the internet of things (IoT), private networks are split into three types:
- Consumer-centric
- Industrial
- Enterprise-centric
The first successful implementations have already been made for these use cases, and G+D is right at the forefront to support this trend.
Industry challenges
There are several challenges when it comes to enabling a PN. For example, security and access in control and management is a central topic that must be considered when setting up a PN. Luckily, this can be solved with the use of a SIM/eSIM.
However, for the industry, some simple things can still be challenging:
- Where to get a SIM/eSIM for a PN
- Quantity is low compared with mobile network operators (MNOs)
- Limited SIM/eSIM know-how
- How to manage the connectivity of devices
- How to get visibility in all network components
- Roaming in public mobile networks
The role of G+D in private networks
G+D supports the network technology, including SIM/eSIM cards and management solutions. eSIM management is an important and innovative technology for accessing the various 5G networks, and it offers numerous advantages compared with conventional SIM cards. These include less required space (especially for IoT devices), longer lifetimes, reduced downtime, and, most importantly, greater flexibility for global deployments when choosing and switching network providers.
Crucial for PN deployments is the device’s ability to seamlessly roam between private and public networks. This is important in many use cases, particularly where a campus network (e.g. a factory) needs to be connected to public networks, for example to track and trace goods along the whole supply and distribution chain. eSIM enables this seamless integration, since both public and private network profiles are included and managed via the same platform. Due to the same security policies applied to the SIM whether it is on the public or private network the device can roam without security being compromised.
G+D is a Kaleido High Flyer as a Private Network Connectivity Enabler
G+D is officially recognized as a High Flyer by Kaleido Intelligence for its comprehensive solution offering in enabling private network connectivity. In an ever-evolving connectivity landscape, this recognition reaffirms our commitment to delivering top-tier solutions and our dedication to shaping the future of private networks.
Our products and solutions for PN
AirOn360®
G+D provides the AirOn360 server solution for private networks. This platform enables profile creation, eSIM management, and credential delivery over the air and into devices. It allows for the central management of all devices and components that are used in the network.
This solution allows the required eSIM profiles and credentials to be loaded and managed wirelessly on a single PC. Dedicated software ensures that devices automatically use the correct profile when they change networks. Moreover, custom-built SIM applets enable value-added features, for instance zero touch provisioning.
SIM and eSIM
SIM cards and eSIM devices will need to be securely programmed, allocated to devices, and then managed during the time in which they are in the PN. When devices leave the PN, or if the PN is not available, it can be connected to a public mobile network that is operated by an MNO. This scenario is similar to roaming among several public mobile networks. The SIM/eSIM can be configured and remotely managed to ensure this automatic switching between networks.
Private LTE Core
Take control of your enterprise connectivity with G+D’s Private LTE Core!
The ultimate in flexible, secure, private networking, Private LTE Core networks offer all the advantages of traditional network connectivity combined with seamless roaming between public and private spectrum, unlimited network slicing, and extremely low latency.
Connect all your IoT assets under one private network, roam on and off between public and private spectrum, and slice your network to your specifications to ‘group’ your assets together.
Anything else you need
Whatever the needs, when it comes to PNs and connectivity between devices, G+D has comprehensive solutions available. Our solutions are tailored to meet the requirements of several industries, such as network equipment providers (NEPs), system integrators (specialists for technical implementation), and the private network owners (PNOs).
If you’re interested in learning more or taking advantage of our solutions, contact us today.
Downloads
Case study
Pioneering private 5G networks
G+D and the Technical University of Kaiserslautern (TUK) have completed the world’s first commercial eSIM deployment in private 5G networks. They agreed to start with the most necessary devices that need connectivity on campus, i.e. the industrial PC and the industrial robot.
Case study
Disaster recovery with G+D and VITES
During major natural catastrophes, we have repeatedly seen telecommunication networks fail and people going 3-4 days without access to vital services in the Western world. To solve this serious concern, VITES and G+D have codeveloped a solution that can enable the use of broadband communication services in urgent events of a disaster or crisis.
Whitepaper
Capitalising on private network opportunities
The latest whitepaper by Juniper Research prepared for G+D provides comprehensive commentary on the opportunities that stakeholders will find within private networks, what challenges they may discover, and why G+D is the trusted partner of choice for managed private network solutions.
Report
Ultra-secure, fully-featured private networks
Secure roaming between public and private networks provides a unique blend of connectivity. Explore this industry report to discover how G+D is revolutionizing the expanding landscape of private networks, offering custom-designed SIM applets and groundbreaking features like Zero-Touch Provisioning. Download now and delve into the future of private network excellence.
Report
Digital transformation in a post-pandemic future: Private 5G, eSIM, cloud and edge in vogue
This Radar report – conducted by GSMA Intelligence and supported by G+D – focuses on the longer-term implications from digitization and the technology enablers that will power it: private 5G, eSIM, and edge cloud. This applies to business and operating models across industries and, just as importantly, to telecom operators, IoT device vendors and cloud groups competing to enable and serve them. Download and find out how eSIM drives digitalization growth despite (and sometimes because of) Covid-19.
Reference cases
Technical University of Kaiserslautern (TUK)
TUK has completed the world’s first deployment test of eSIMs in a private network. Watch the video to learn how fast and easy the G+D eSIM management proceeds.
Druid Software
See how Druid Software and G+D come together to offer a simple, secure way of joining private networks using their innovative eSIM capability.
Deutsche Messe
Deutsche Messe and G+D launch a strategic partnership in eSIM management services for 5G Smart Venue.
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