How to get started with your own 5G campus network

While 5G, as a mobile technology, is inherently more complex than setting up a WLAN network or other industrial wireless standards, there are several factors that facilitate a rapid introduction. Consequently, interested parties should analyze the opportunities their own campus network can offer.

The question of existing pain points and the extent to which the new mobile technology can contribute to solving them is fundamental to getting started with 5G campus networks. Reliable connections without dropouts when changing radio cells, such as those complained about by operators of autonomous vehicles (AGV) in connection with WLAN installations, could be a possible cause. Others have extremely high numbers of end devices to integrate, or they have to ensure the lowest possible latency times. Only in rare cases is the extreme bandwidth made possible by 5G the reason for a dedicated campus network. Furthermore, the technology should not be overestimated. It is not a "panacea" that covers all wireless use cases or enables the consolidation of all wireless networks.

Of course, the potential benefits of a company's own 5G network must be compared with the costs incurred. Experience has shown that 300,000 euros over a period of three to five years is the lower limit. However, Peter Hofbauer, Sales Development Manager at Xantaro Germany, warns against setting the bar too high. In his experience, many customers only realise the extensive added value of a 5G campus network during practical operation. "It's not uncommon for ideas and concepts to be pulled out of the drawer during our projects that were buried at the bottom of the drawer - because the technical conditions for implementation were previously lacking. And suddenly the customer realises that completely new possibilities are now opening up to digitalise processes, increase efficiency or develop completely new business cases."

 From PoC to the campus network

Companies can get a first impression with the help of a proof of concept. With a manageable financial and time investment, initial experience can be gained on site as to how easily a 5G network can be set up and utilised. For example, complete illumination of company premises is rather unproblematic compared to other wireless standards, even in otherwise "difficult" environments where a lot of metal is used.

After deciding in favor of a private 5G network, the next crucial step is to determine the additional services that are needed. Whether it's roaming to public 5G networks when devices venture outside the company's campus network for data or voice communication, or the integration of slicing offerings from major mobile communication providers into the concept through a hybrid network, various considerations need attention. Clarifying service level agreements is also an essential aspect.

And last but not least, the question of whether the 5G network can be operated by the company's own IT administration or whether it should be managed externally. Handling the maintenance of the 5G core, managing antennas and end devices, provisioning SIM cards, and optimising the radio network to adapt to evolving requirements all demand significant expertise. Xantaro can manage these tasks on behalf of the customer.

Do not overestimate the effort

When designing a 5G campus network, Xantaro consistently relies on "everything from a single source". Both hardware and software come from the currently most attractive 5G technology companies, Celona or Nokia. Choosing one of these leading technology partners eliminates the need for complex, time-consuming compatibility tests, which are necessary for open RAN concepts, for example. Coordinated components, suitable tools and close co-operation with the manufacturer ensure that projects can be completed quickly without any major frictional losses. In recent years, Celona has become the rising star for many 5G solutions, and Nokia has strengths in other parts.

Getting started with your own 5G campus network is a technology decision that should not be underestimated, but also not overestimated. Selecting appropriate partners can play a crucial role in achieving the swift and efficient realisation of such a project.

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