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<\/p>\nNetwork slicing is an innovative capability offered by 5G wireless technology that allows telecom operators to create multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure. Each \u2018slice\u2019 is a customised, end-to-end network tailored to meet the specific requirements of different services, applications\u00a0or customer segments.<\/p>\n
For enterprise businesses, network slicing represents a transformative way to leverage WAN connectivity by providing dedicated network resources for high priority applications that can be backed with service level agreements from carriers.<\/p>\n
Features and benefits<\/h4>\n1. Customised performance<\/h5>\n
Network slicing offers customised performance and application optimisation. Customised performance allows enterprises to define specific parameters like bandwidth, latency, reliability\u00a0and security levels to ensure optimal performance for mission-critical applications or specific industries.<\/p>\n
Application optimisation enables support for diverse applications \u2014 from high-bandwidth video conferencing to low-latency industrial automation \u2014 each with its own tailored network slice.<\/p>\n
2. Enhanced security and isolation<\/h5>\n
With dedicated resources, each network slice operates independently, providing isolation from other network traffic, which enhances security and reduces the risk of interference or congestion.<\/p>\n
Organisations can achieve compliance and control, by implementing specific security protocols such as zero-trust, measures within a slice to meet industry regulations and company policies.<\/p>\n
3. Dedicated network resources<\/h5>\n
The value of network slicing lies in the dedicated network resources that it provides, which means that carriers can guarantee traffic, even during times when there is peak congestion on the cellular network.<\/p>\n
With simplified management, organisations can streamline network operations with centralised management of multiple slices, reducing complexity.<\/p>\n
Practical use cases for enterprises<\/h4>\n
Below are some use cases for 5G network slicing:<\/p>\n
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- \nManufacturing and Industry 4.0:<\/strong> Implementing a network slice with ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) for real-time control of robotics and automation systems on the factory floor.<\/li>\n
- \nHealthcare services:<\/strong> Utilising a highly secure and reliable slice for telemedicine applications, remote surgery\u00a0and the transmission of sensitive patient data.<\/li>\n
- \nTransportation and logistics:<\/strong> Deploying massive machine-type communication (mMTC) slices to support widespread IoT sensors for asset tracking, fleet management\u00a0and supply chain optimisation.<\/li>\n
- \nFinancial services:<\/strong> Ensuring high-throughput and low-latency connectivity for trading platforms, secure transactions\u00a0and data analytics with dedicated network slices.<\/li>\n
- \nEvents and entertainment:<\/strong> Providing enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) slices to handle high data traffic and deliver immersive experiences at concerts, sports events\u00a0or theme parks.<\/li>\n
- \nSmart grid:<\/strong> Utility companies can leverage network slicing to manage and monitor smart grids, ensuring reliable and secure communication for electricity distribution and real-time grid management.<\/li>\n
- \nPublic safety:<\/strong> Dedicated slices can be provided to first responders, enabling reliable communication during crises and disasters, with dedicated network resources even when the cellular network is experiencing congestion.<\/li>\n
- \nBroadcast services:<\/strong> Network slices can support high-quality broadcast services for live events, ensuring consistent and reliable delivery of content to large audiences.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Use case deep dive: Remote live broadcast and production<\/h4>\n
Remote broadcasting has evolved significantly since the inception of television, transitioning from wired connections and film reels to modern satellite links used by outdoor broadcast (OB) vehicles. In recent years, especially during the pandemic, smartphone and PC-recorded videos have become commonplace due to restrictions on dispatching camera teams. The introduction of 5G network slicing offers a promising advancement by merging the affordability and ubiquity of mobile networks with the high-quality standards of TV broadcasts. Now several years on from the pandemic, this innovation is appealing to broadcasters as it enables cost-effective content capture and coverage of niche events or sports.<\/p>\n
Cost efficiency<\/h5>\n
5G slicing allows direct streaming to central production sites, eliminating the need for OB bus-based local production and reducing onsite team sizes. The centralised and cloud-based production setups benefit from reduced costs in communication equipment.<\/p>\n
Compared to satellite links, the transmission costs with 5G slicing are significantly lower, enabling high-quality broadcasts in areas where satellite connections are impractical.<\/p>\n
Functional benefits and ease of use<\/h5>\n
Cameras equipped with Wi-Fi and local radios for communication can use 5G to bypass spectrum permits. Equipped with modems and SIMs, cameras can access network slices through self-service portals. 5G facilitates camera usage in diverse locations, including indoors, drones\u00a0and helicopters.<\/p>\n
Reliability and performance<\/h5>\n
5G network slicing offers performance comparable to satellite solutions, with guaranteed throughput of over 25 Mbps and low jitter latency under 20 ms. Achieving latency or ping under 10 ms makes slicing akin to fibre connections. Bandwidth requirements vary from 10 Mb\/s for basic HD to 60-70 Mb\/s for multiple cameras.<\/p>\n
Market expansion<\/h5>\n
The technology enables tier 2 and tier 3 broadcasters, influencers\u00a0and vloggers to enter the market, covering numerous smaller events. Tier 1 broadcasters can utilise more cameras during major events like Melbourne Cup and the Olympics, enhancing coverage.<\/p>\n
Security and isolation<\/h5>\n
Network slices provide secure isolation, protecting broadcast data from public network exposure. This feature is particularly valuable for sensitive situations, such as sports betting.<\/p>\n
Deployment and flexibility<\/h5>\n
Mobile networks with built-in 5G capabilities enable quick and simple setups, allowing smaller teams to operate efficiently without large equipment. The speed and agility offered by 5G slicing were notably utilised during the live coverage of Queen Elizabeth II\u2019s passing, where 4G\/5G was crucial for timely broadcast solutions.<\/p>\n
Why network slicing matters for your business<\/h4>\n
As enterprises increasingly rely on connected technologies and digital transformation, the ability to have a network that aligns precisely with business objectives becomes a competitive advantage. Network slicing offers:<\/p>\n
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- \nInnovation enablement:<\/strong> Accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and Internet of Things (IoT) by providing the necessary network support.<\/li>\n
- \nBusiness continuity:<\/strong> Maintain consistent and reliable network performance even during peak usage times or network disruptions.<\/li>\n
- \nStrategic partnerships:<\/strong> Collaborate more effectively with telecom providers to co-create solutions that drive business growth and customer satisfaction.
\n\t\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nNetwork slicing empowers enterprise businesses to harness the full potential of 5G technology by delivering customisable, secure, and efficient network services tailored to specific needs. It enables a new level of agility and responsiveness, allowing businesses to innovate and adapt rapidly in a dynamic market landscape.<\/p>\n
- \nBusiness continuity:<\/strong> Maintain consistent and reliable network performance even during peak usage times or network disruptions.<\/li>\n
- \nHealthcare services:<\/strong> Utilising a highly secure and reliable slice for telemedicine applications, remote surgery\u00a0and the transmission of sensitive patient data.<\/li>\n