NSA .... the Telco one ...

Recently we have been asked by our customers how and why they might implement 5G NSA in their network ....

5G Non-Standalone (NSA) deployment serves as a strategic bridge between existing 4G LTE networks and the advanced capabilities of 5G technology. By integrating 5G New Radio (NR) with the current 4G infrastructure, operators can expedite the delivery of enhanced services while managing costs effectively.

Understanding 5G NSA Deployment

In a 5G NSA architecture, the 4G LTE network continues to handle control plane functions—such as signaling and mobility management—while the 5G NR focuses on the user plane, delivering higher data rates and improved performance. This configuration allows for the introduction of 5G services without the immediate need for a complete overhaul to a 5G core network.

Advantages of 5G NSA Enablement

1.???? Accelerated Market Entry: Leveraging existing 4G infrastructure enables operators to launch 5G services more rapidly, meeting consumer demand for faster connectivity without the delays and costs associated with building a new core network.

2.???? Cost-Effective Implementation: By reusing current network assets, operators can minimize the capital expenditure required for initial 5G deployment, making it a financially viable option.

3.???? Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB): 5G NSA provides significantly higher data speeds compared to 4G, supporting data-intensive applications such as high-definition video streaming, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR).

4.???? Seamless User Experience: The integration of 5G NR with 4G LTE ensures continuity of service, allowing users to experience improved performance without disruptions as the network transitions to standalone 5G.

Key Use Cases for 5G NSA

·?????? Fixed Wireless Access (FWA): Provides high-speed internet connectivity in areas lacking traditional broadband infrastructure, bridging the digital divide and enhancing access to online services.

·?????? Smart Cities: Enables real-time monitoring and management of urban infrastructure, such as traffic systems and public safety networks, improving efficiency and quality of life for residents.

·?????? Industrial IoT: Supports the connectivity of numerous devices in manufacturing and logistics, facilitating automation, predictive maintenance, and improved operational efficiency.

Challenges and Considerations

While 5G NSA offers a swift path to deploying 5G services, it is primarily suited for enhanced mobile broadband applications. Advanced use cases requiring ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) and massive machine-type communications (mMTC) may necessitate a transition to 5G Standalone (SA) architecture, which includes a new 5G core network designed to support these capabilities.

While the industry is progressively moving towards 5G SA networks, the deployment of 5G NSA serves as a crucial interim step. It allows operators to:

·?????? Build Market Momentum: Offering 5G services through NSA can help capture market share and establish a competitive edge, laying the groundwork for future SA deployments.

·?????? Test and Optimize 5G Technologies: Deploying NSA enables operators to gain practical experience with 5G technologies, refine their offerings, and prepare their networks for the complexities of SA architecture.?

Conclusion

Implementing 5G NSA is a pragmatic approach for operators aiming to deliver immediate enhancements in mobile broadband services. Opimize existing resources and it allows for rapid deployment and cost savings by utilizing existing 4G infrastructure, while also setting the stage for a future transition to 5G Standalone networks that will unlock the full potential of 5G technology. By adopting a phased approach, operators can manage investments effectively while meeting the evolving demands of consumers and businesses.

Here at Arion Networks we help our customers make decisions such as this and then help them implement those changes in their network in a safe and cost effective way. We can support you throughout the whole process including: design, implementation, lab testing in our labs or yours and operational support.

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