Private wireless networks are becoming increasingly popular in today’s connected world, as organizations and enterprises seek more secure and reliable alternatives to public networks.
Private networks can provide a range of benefits, from improved coverage in remote and underserved areas to enhanced security and data privacy.
But when is it necessary to invest in a private network, and what key considerations should go into the decision?
Coverage Needs
One of the most significant factors to consider when evaluating the need for a private network is coverage. For enterprises in areas with limited or no coverage from a mobile network operator (MNO) or internet service provider (ISP), a private network may be necessary.
This is particularly true in remote or rural areas, or in locations difficult or expensive to blanket with Wi-Fi. Additionally, for enterprises requiring outdoor coverage, a private network can be a cost-effective and reliable solution. Examples include resorts, golf-course communities, or college campuses.
Capacity Requirements
Another important factor to consider when determining the need for a private network is capacity. For enterprises with an existing network that is performing well but needs additional capacity to support new applications, a private network can be a great solution.
This is highly relevant for data-intensive applications such as surveillance video, where bandwidth requirements are high. Utilities using narrow-band solutions may also benefit from a private network that can provide additional capacity for their operations.
Security and Privacy
In today’s world, security and privacy are more critical than ever before. If you do not trust the security or privacy of your existing network, or if MNO networks violate your private data needs, a private network may be a more secure and private alternative.
Wi-Fi security is often not adequate for enterprise-level applications, and MNO networks can be vulnerable to hacking and data breaches. A private network can be designed with security and privacy in mind, providing end-to-end encryption and other advanced security features to protect sensitive data.
Edge Compute Applications
Edge computing is becoming increasingly necessary, as more organizations look to process data closer to its source.
Automated intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)-based video processing at the edge are excellent examples of applications that require high-quality connectivity, and can therefore derive a benefit from a private wireless networking solution. Another example? Robotics deployments that require a super low-latency network to ensure uninterrupted operability, which is not possible with traditional Wi-Fi networks.
Interference Issues
Enterprises experiencing operations-impacting interference issues on an existing network may find a private wireless solution to be the best option for remediation. This is particularly true in difficult RF environments, such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities with a lot of metal racks and equipment. Stadiums and events that include a preponderance of endpoints are also examples of environments where interference issues can be challenging to manage and solve for.
Seamless Integration
In the instance of enterprises that require a network that can seamlessly connect to public MNO networks for MNO services, but are finding their current distributed antenna system (DAS) too expensive and complex, a private network may be necessary.
This is particularly relevant for visitors at medical facilities like hospital campuses or in parking lots, where network coverage is poor. A private network can provide a cost-effective and reliable solution to connect to public networks seamlessly.
There are many factors to consider when determining the need for a private wireless network. From meeting coverage and capacity requirements to alleviating security and privacy concerns, there are also many benefits to investing in a private network. At Federated, we recommend starting with a single use case or starter network implementation, which provides the foundation for a more widespread deployment custom-fit for an enterprise’s unique needs.
New to private wireless? It’s a new world; we welcome you, here.
