As overcrowded and unsecured networks used for ‘reliable connectivity’ in large-scale settings such as distribution centres, seaports, airports, colleges, and smart cities prove to be a big (and costly) challenge, enterprises and governments are now opening up and embracing a better way to stay connected.
A private LTE network is centred on similar standards and technology to that used by large cellular networks. For on-premises connectivity, small cell access nodes are configured on-site by the organization or a service provider. These small cell nodes resemble a concept like Wi-Fi access points that deliver wireless connection, but cover a wider area with no blind spots.
In off-premises settings - such as first responders and government emergency services - a private communication network means connectivity on-the-go, and ability to confidently transfer data in a more secure network without the need for public Wi-Fi access.
Private LTE is a great choice for enterprises looking to push reliable and secure connectivity across their IoT solutions, business-critical processes, and cloud services - both on-premises and off-site.
Advantages of Using Private LTE
Private LTE integrates a cellular network’s GSM coverage with LTE’s speed and connectivity, and now also brings the advantage of an installed private 5G pathway. It works as a perfect solution for large enterprises across many industries, and the public sectors too.
By delivering high quality, optimized performance, Private LTE provides consumers with control over their connectivity and data traffic. In comparison to Wi-Fi - which utilizes unauthorized bands - a private network allows a business to regulate who accesses the network, and avoid costly security breaches.
Many larger organizations find that a private LTE network’s advanced security features work best with their complex network demands, like providing coverage to hundreds of business-critical devices and users over a large area. End users can keep significant, high risk, and on-site information secured via several levels of security, which comes with private networks like these.
Along with high security standards, private LTE is known for its versatility. Its dual SIM feature means devices can be switched between private and public LTE networks for consistent coverage. The dual SIM capability solves some of the userbase’s biggest problems with enterprise IoT solutions, such as connectivity for moving vehicles or between various business locations, and real-time data transfer for field operatives.
Private LTE has also proven to be a cost-effective solution, as it saves enterprises from complex infrastructure and installation costs. For instance, a Wi-Fi network might need a large number of extenders and lined connections to cover a much wider space - as opposed to a private network, which might only need one small cell tower with fewer access points.
Private LTE is also an option for enterprises that utilise high-bandwidth traffic, for voice services and data transfers, as it supports both functions seamlessly.
Private LTE Use Cases
Private LTE can fit into business practices across most industries. Here are the best examples of cases where such networks are used:
- Mining: Private LTE networks can provide coverage over large and far-flung areas, and they are also able to support high speed data transfer to enable data connectivity and transparency between mining sites and operations offices
- Manufacturing and Warehouses: Cameras, GPS, Bluetooth devices, tracking, and supply chain applications for security and monitoring can easily operate on a private LTE network, and they ensure reliable connectivity for IoT solutions.
- Small Cities: Private, secure, LTE networks often support services such as CCTV security and monitoring services, road traffic and highway management, and emergency services with very little to no interference or unauthorised intrusions.
- Airports, Transportation Hubs, and Ports: As security is crucial at high traffic transportation and travel locations, private LTE networks guarantee consistency in connectivity and data transfer speed - giving airports and transport hubs the ability to keep on top of their communication and information.
Wrap-Up
There are various perks to using private LTE networks. They offer high performance, security, and adaptability with a range of options for infrastructure that make them an ideal choice for businesses and organizations seeking a cost-effective connectivity solution, which works with both the current and the evolving business landscape. When it is integrated with public wide area networks , a private and secure LTE network can also become a global solution for many enterprises.