Private (5G/Mobile) Networks

Superfast Business Connectivity with Private (5G/Mobile) Networks

 

Private mobile networks, also referred to as Private Cellular Networks (PCNs) are dedicated communication systems that are built exclusively for a single organisation or site. It’s like having your own business Wi-Fi but significantly faster, more secure and covering a wider geographical area.

Private networks, depending on requirements like coverage area, user mobility, budget or regulatory restrictions, have some flexibility in how their infrastructure is designed.

Private mobile networks can be used where smart technology is being deployed due to their speed, resilience and reliability. A private network in your organisation will improve latency and mobile connection performance allowing the use of AR, VR, robots or multiple devices to be deployed at once without your mobile performance being effected.

Shared Access have experience with delivering private mobile networks into sports stadiums and smart buildings.

How do private (mobile) networks work?

Private mobile networks operate just like public cellular networks, but on a smaller scale and dedicated to a specific organisation. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and how they work together focusing on the infrastructure and connectivity.

Infrastructure – base stations

These act like mini cell towers, emitting radio signals that your devices (phones, laptops, sensors) use to connect and transmit data. Depending on your needs, you might use small cells, microcells, DAS systems, or even traditional towers.

Infrastructure – core network

This is the brain of the operation, handling tasks like user authentication, data routing and switching calls. It ensures smooth communication within your network and can connect to the broader internet if needed.

Infrastructure – spectrum

This is the invisible resource that carries the radio signals. You can get licensed spectrum dedicated to your network, use unlicensed spectrum with limitations, or share spectrum with other organisations (depending on regulations).

Connectivity – device connection

Devices establish connections to the private network by communicating with the closest base station through radio waves, which is a similar process to how devices interact with public cellular networks. This ensures a secure and reliable connection within the network’s coverage area.

Connectivity – authentication

During authentication in a private mobile network, the core network system checks and confirms the identity of devices trying to connect. This process ensures that only authorised devices can access the network, enhancing security by preventing unauthorised use.

Connectivity – data transmission

Data transmission involves the flow of various types of data, such as calls, messages and videos, across the network. This data is transmitted via radio waves between your devices and the base stations and is managed and routed through the core network to ensure efficient and secure communication within the private network’s infrastructure.

Common challenges that private networks overcome

Connectivity issues

Private networks can effectively address common connectivity issues that often plague business Wi-Fi systems, especially in environments with high mobile user traffic. By implementing a private network, you can expect a notable improvement in connection reliability, speed and the ability to handle numerous simultaneous users without degradation in service quality. This makes private networks an attractive solution for areas where Wi-Fi struggles to provide consistent and fast connectivity.

Security concerns

For organisations handling sensitive data or operating critical infrastructure, private networks offer enhanced security features. These networks provide a controlled environment, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorised access, making them essential for maintaining data integrity and protecting vital operations.

Control & autonomy

Private networks allow organisations to tailor their network configurations to meet specific operational needs, offering a level of autonomy not available with public infrastructure. This control and customisation capability is particularly valuable for entities with unique requirements, ensuring their network aligns precisely with their operational objectives and security protocols.

Innovation advancement

Installing a private network facilitates the deployment of advanced applications such as augmented and virtual reality, IoT (Internet of Things) devices and real-time data analytics. This infrastructure supports high-bandwidth, low-latency applications, enabling seamless operation and enhancing both user experience and operational efficiency.

When considering private networks, it’s also important to be aware of regulatory requirements. Initial setup and maintenance costs may be higher than those for public networks, but the potential long-term benefits and return on investment can outweigh these expenses. Deploying and managing a private network successfully requires the technical expertise Shared Access offers.

Partnering with experienced network operators ensures effective implementation and reliable ongoing support, making the investment in private networks worthwhile for businesses seeking advanced connectivity solutions.

Three business benefits of private networks

01

Fast, reliable & resilient

Using licensed mobile spectrum in private networks enhances reliability, resilience and speed, reducing latency compared to unlicensed network solutions. This improvement in network performance is crucial for deploying latency-sensitive and bandwidth-intensive applications like augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR) and autonomous systems, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.

02

Privacy & security

In private networks, security and privacy are enhanced through mechanisms like SIM grade authentication, allowing network owners to precisely control access. This ensures that only authorised users can connect, significantly improving both the security and the overall quality of service within the network.

03

Network scalability

Private networks offer scalable solutions that enable organisations to expand their network capacity and add devices efficiently. This scalability is managed at a predictable cost, allowing for flexibility in network usage and growth as organisational needs continually evolve without redesigning infrastructure.

For More Information

Our expert private networks team brings a wealth of experience, particularly in crafting unique solutions such as in-building systems, private networks and mast space leasing, which are critical components of a resilient network. For more information on maximising your site’s digital network efficiency and resiliency, click here to speak to one of our team