To realize the benefits of 5G, it is crucial to understand the evolution of telecom service providers and their investments from 3G to 4G networks, like 4G LTE. With the increasing need for bandwidth and new spectrum channels, the deployment of 5G has become essential. While 4G networks still coexist with 5G networks, the transition highlights the evolution required to support the advancements in technology.
The shift to 5G has created opportunities for new use cases, particularly in enterprise settings, although consumer adoption has been more rapid. The key lies in ensuring that the network infrastructure can effectively support and deliver the value of 5G technology. As operators continue their journey of 5G rollouts and service offerings, there is considerable potential for innovative use cases around generative AI and at the edge. Embracing the capabilities of 5G not only enhances network performance but also paves the way for transformative solutions across various sectors.
“I think 5G has completely taken off. There’s no question that any new device is 5G-enabled. But the key to a successful and scaled rollout relies on the network supporting 5G, while continuing to deliver value,” said Kalyan Kumar, Global Chief Technology Officer and Head – Ecosystems at HCLTech and Chief Product Officer at HCLSoftware, during MWC.
5G network slicing
Network slicing was identified by the HCLTech Trends 2024 report as a disruptor poised to impact the 5G space.
It is a transformative technology that enables network operators to slice a single physical 5G network into multiple virtual networks, each customized for specific use cases or industries.
According to Kumar, there are three dimensions to consider — volume, velocity and variety.
“As both enterprises and consumers coexist, it becomes essential to provide guaranteed services and ensure a certain level of quality and security for different services,” said Kumar.
“Network slicing allows for the separation and customization of networks, granting enterprises or people virtual private access with their own secure backhauling,” he added.
By slicing the existing core infrastructure or creating duplicate private 5G core infrastructure, each slice can offer guaranteed quality of service (QoS) and a high-quality experience (QoE) to both enterprise and consumer.
“There is a significant demand for reliable connectivity and network slicing provides the path to ensure quality and scalability,” added Kumar.
5G offerings from HCLTech and HCLSoftware
HCLTech and HCLSoftware offer a comprehensive range of 5G solutions.
From an HCLTech standpoint, “we have a very unique ability as an integrated IT and engineering services provider with engineering DNA at the center. We are doing a significant amount of work, both with telecom OEMs and telecom service providers,” said Kumar.
He added: “We have deep partnerships with large telco OEMs, network OEMs and cloud hyperscalers. With this unique strategic partnership, we engineer and deploy products and professional services for this ecosystem and their customers.
“From a services standpoint, our recent partnership with Verizon clearly highlights how we work with the service providers to optimize costs and accelerate go-to-market strategies.”
He pointed to HCLTech’s digital telco software suite that empowers telecom service providers to enhance their digital services offerings in areas including the connected ecosystem, cybersecurity and intelligent automation.
In the realm of network software, HCLSoftware “drives integrated observability across radio networks, pack cores and IP, radio and optical convergence,” said Kumar.
The software portfolio also focuses on sustainability, prioritizing energy efficiency in wireless mobile networks and data centers, as well as commercial R&D or IP licensing.
During MWC, HCLSoftware and Intel launched a 5G solution to optimize hardware solutions and accelerate cost reduction.
“We’re building a lot of intellectual property around cell site service routers, backhaul modem technologies and AI accelerators,” said Kumar.
With a strong market presence and a holistic approach encompassing IT, engineering services and software offerings, HCLTech and HCLSoftware are well-positioned to provide end-to-end solutions that cater to the evolving needs of the telecom service provider ecosystem and telecom OEMs.
“We are uniquely positioned to address the 360-degree coverage of the telecom service provider and OEM ecosystem,” said Kumar.
