by Ashish Jain, President, KAIROS Pulse
Private cellular networks are becoming increasingly critical for enterprise digital transformations. While the benefits of these networks are clear – enhanced security, seamless mobility, improved performance, and future-proof architecture – the path to successful deployment is complex. System Integrators (SIs) and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are playing a crucial role in planning, deploying, and managing these networks.
The Enterprise Challenge
Private cellular networks represent a significant leap forward from traditional enterprise networking solutions. They offer unprecedented capabilities: robust security that surpasses current wireless networks like Wi-Fi, smooth mobility and roaming – indoor and outdoor, superior data throughput and latency required by critical applications, and the flexibility to support diverse use cases from critical communications to IoT deployments.
However, implementing these networks requires expertise in:
• 4G and 5G cellular network infrastructure
• Understanding of differences in 4G and 5G private networks and when it makes sense for enterprise applications
• Spectrum management (whether CBRS or licensed)
• RF engineering and optimization
• Device provisioning and SIM management
• Performance monitoring and SLA maintenance
• Integrating cellular networks with enterprise IT/OT infrastructure
• And more…
Despite their expertise in traditional networking, most enterprise IT/OT departments and their digital automation SI partners find themselves in unfamiliar territory regarding cellular technology. The learning curve is steep, and the stakes are high. As a result, they resort to the status quo of selecting sub-optimal wireless networks for their business-critical applications.
The System Integrator Advantage
Private cellular technology is where System Integrators shine. SIs bring a unique combination of skills and experience that bridges the gap between enterprise needs and cellular technology capabilities:
Deep Technical Expertise
Network SIs have typically worked extensively on cellular and non-cellular wireless networks, gaining hands-on experience with deployments across various environments. They understand the intricacies of both indoor and outdoor installations and, more importantly, which wireless network makes sense for different applications’ needs, as well as how to anticipate and resolve potential issues before they impact operations.
Scalable, Pre-defined Solutions
Leading SIs have developed replicable solutions that can be customized for specific industry needs. Whether it’s an automated factory requiring precise communication between AGVs, robots, and control systems or a warehouse seeking to optimize its logistics operations, SIs can deploy proven frameworks while maintaining the flexibility for customer-specific customization.
Comprehensive Project Management
From initial planning through deployment and ongoing optimization, SIs manage the entire lifecycle of your private network. They handle critical aspects such as:
• Translating business requirements into technical specifications
• Designing networks that balance performance and cost
• Managing complex multi-vendor integrations
• Establishing and monitoring performance KPIs
• Providing ongoing support and optimization
Cost Optimization
By leveraging their experience and existing relationships with vendors, SIs can help enterprises optimize their investment in private networks with flexible CAPEX and OPEX-based models. They can also share the infrastructure cost across multiple deployments (using the Network as a Service model) and help avoid common pitfalls that could lead to costly redesigns.
The Path Forward
The private cellular network market is experiencing unprecedented growth. Industry analysts consistently project significant expansion in the coming years, with the global private 5G market expected to grow substantially throughout the decade.
This growth represents a massive opportunity for System Integrators and MSPs. However, success in this market requires more than just technical expertise. Enterprises need partners who can not only understand their business objectives but also translate them into technical solutions that deliver real value.
We’ve identified several key areas where even experienced SIs can enhance their capabilities:
• Many technically proficient SIs excel in network deployment but struggle with enterprise customer engagement. Understanding enterprise pain points, buying cycles, and decision-making processes are crucial for success.
• Converting technical capabilities into compelling business value propositions requires a different skill set. SIs need to articulate ROI and business benefits in terms that resonate with enterprise decision-makers.
• Successfully deploying private networks requires bridging IT and OT domains, understanding industry-specific applications, and integrating with existing enterprise systems.
For SIs and MSPs seeking to capitalize on the burgeoning private cellular market, now is the crucial time to build and enhance your private networking capabilities.
Whether you’re an experienced SI looking to expand your enterprise engagement or a newcomer to private cellular aiming to establish a robust private wireless practice, continuous investment in expertise and resources, coupled with strategic partnerships within the broader ecosystem of suppliers, is paramount. This strategic approach is essential to position your organization as a trusted advisor and a key player in this exciting new era of enterprise connectivity.
Introducing Private Wireless PRO – The Information Hub for SIs and MSPs
To support System Integrators and MSPs in delivering these critical services, Private Wireless PRO offers the resources, community, and support they need to succeed in this rapidly growing market.
This comprehensive platform is explicitly designed for SIs and MSPs looking to expand their private wireless networking capabilities.
Private Wireless PRO provides members with:
• A detailed playbook for identifying opportunities and developing compelling value propositions
• Premium content, including advanced learning paths and practical Pro Tips
• Access to a comprehensive industry directory of vendors and solution providers
• Self-paced and live training programs for sales and technical teams
• Networking opportunities with industry experts and peers
• Special discounts on essential tools and resources
If you are an SI or MSP looking to learn how to offer private wireless services or want to connect with potential partners who can help you deliver network expertise to your customers, join our membership program here.
