Navigating the transition: Accelerating shift to 4G/5G networks

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Sunsetting legacy technologies

The global technology shift towards 4G and 5G services is underway, with spectrums being refarmed to accommodate faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity. Service providers are optimizing spectrum utilization due to its scarcity and cost.

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Navigating network sunsetting: Balancing benefits and challenges for service providers

Sunsetting legacy networks is a complex and lengthy process. Although it can bring many benefits to the service providers (such as minimizing operating and maintenance costs, optimizing spectrum usage, streamlining network management, and accelerating service innovation), it also poses several associated challenges. These challenges include the management of the large volume of voice traffic carried by 2G/3G technologies, the presence of a multitude of feature phones in the network, the lack of coverage of 4G/5G technologies, and the presence of many M2M devices based on 2G/3G chipset. Additionally, the integration of the E-band technology aligns with sustainability objectives and energy-efficiency targets, consequently contributing to a reduction in power consumption.

The transition to 4G and 5G networks is gaining momentum globally.
Spectrums are being refarmed to support faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity.
Service providers are optimizing spectrum usage due to its scarcity and high cost.
This shift is driven by the growing adoption of 4G and 5G devices.
The transition involves a complex, multifaceted, and lengthy process. Providers must assess impacted areas and develop comprehensive plans. Each network requires individual planning for the transition.
A phased approach prioritizes areas with higher 4G coverage first, followed by rural and remote regions. This minimizes network disruptions and allows time for preparation.
One legacy technology will be maintained to support Machine-to-Machine (M2M) and emergency services until they migrate to 4G/5G.
All future investments are directed towards 4G/5G technologies. The goal is to deliver high-quality services and maximize network revenue.

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Navigating the transition: Accelerating shift to 4G/5G networks

Sunsetting legacy technologies

Introduction

Navigating network sunsetting: Balancing benefits and challenges for service providers

Key highlights

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