These advancements will enable CSPs to support enterprise needs better. Only with these capabilities can CSPs now start to support some of the most demanding requests from their largest enterprise customers. On the other hand, private network operators can use these standards to build even more customized and resilient systems that align with their specific operational demands.

Different Setups for Private Networks

The variety of private network setups available underscores the need for a holistic approach. Each configuration has complexities and requirements that must be tailored to the specific use case, as follows:

On-Premises Networks: These networks provide the highest level of control, making them suitable for environments that demand rigorous data protection and low latency, such as hospitals or manufacturing plants. However, on-premises networks require substantial investment in setup and maintenance.

Hybrid Private Networks: Hybrid networks combine on-premises and public infrastructure and offer a balance of high security and scalability. They are ideal for organizations with distributed operations or those requiring localized control and broader connectivity.

Managed Private Networks: Smaller enterprises may choose managed private networks for their ease of use. While this setup outsources some network control, it still offers dedicated resources and greater customization than public CSPs. However, the ability to respond to mission-critical issues may be limited compared to entirely in-house management.

Geographically Distributed Networks: Enterprises with operations in different locations face unique challenges. Managing consistent performance and security across dispersed facilities can be difficult, particularly when integrating multiple network types, such as private 5G, LTE, and Wi-Fi. These situations require specialized solutions to maintain seamless communication and performance.

Complexities and the Need for Custom Solutions: Managing diverse network setups involves integrating various technologies, handling geographic differences, and aligning with industry-specific regulations. For example, a rail system operating across multiple countries may need to adhere to different safety and operational standards, impacting how its private network is configured. Similarly, hospitals with multiple campuses might need different network capabilities depending on whether a facility is focused on critical care or outpatient services. This diversity highlights why one-size-fits-all solutions do not suffice and why a holistic, adaptable approach is necessary.

Use Cases from Various Industries

Airports exemplify environments where private networks must operate flawlessly. A network outage impacting ground services, real-time communication, or baggage handling can lead to flight delays, passenger dissatisfaction, and significant financial losses. Keeping network assurance in-house allows operators to maintain the flexibility and speed needed for rapid response and problem-solving. Other industry examples include:

Healthcare: Hospitals rely on private networks for secure, continuous patient monitoring and data exchange. The network requirements for a high-capacity urban hospital differ from those of a minor clinic, yet both need low-latency, high-reliability connectivity.

Transportation Systems: Rail networks use private networks for signalling, train schedules, and communication with control centers. These systems require consistent performance across long distances and through varied environmental conditions.

Manufacturing: Factories depend on private networks to support automated assembly lines, IoT sensors, and machine-to-machine communication. The network must be robust enough to handle high data traffic and responsive enough to support real-time adjustments.