Ericsson simplifies cloud-native networks transition

Ericsson’s new Compact Packet Core aims to simplify the transition of Communication Service Providers (CSPs) to cloud-native networks.

The solution includes the cloud-native Packet Core Controller (PCC) and Packet Core Gateway (PCG) network functions, all packed into a single compact rack version of Ericsson’s Cloud-Native Infrastructure Solution (CNIS).

The Ericsson Compact Packet Core is designed as a global solution, with pre-configured parameter settings and streamlined migration procedures. According to Ericsson, this will ease the transition to cloud-native frameworks and optimise the return on investment in critical network infrastructure.

Monica Zethzon, Head of Solution Area Core Networks at Ericsson, said: “With this solution we are providing a new approach for upgrading to cloud native and introducing 5G Core, built on our deep experience with the world’s most advanced networks.

“It significantly simplifies modernisation while unlocking the full potential of our world-class cloud-native software. We are proud to introduce the Ericsson Compact Packet Core for CSPs looking to accelerate their cloud-native journey and manage capacity growth.”

The solution backs 4G, 5G Non-Standalone (NSA), and 5G Standalone (SA) networks, empowering CSPs to meet both strategic and operational demands.

One of the standout features of the Compact Packet Core is its solution lifecycle management service. With Ericsson at the helm of automated network upgrades, CSPs can look forward to seamless transitions and networks that remain up-to-date with the latest software innovations and security enhancements.

A significant advantage of this new offering is its appliance-like simplicity, combined with the benefits derived from being inherently cloud-native. This includes support for automation, In-Service Software Upgrades (ISSU), and Container-as-a-Service rolling upgrades (CaaS RU). These features allow CSPs the flexibility to adjust the network to evolving use cases or workloads, enabling them to expand services as required.

The Ericsson Compact Packet Core’s optimised and validated configuration reduces deployment, migration, and software upgrade complexities. CSPs will find the pre-defined configurations beneficial, with potentially 80 percent fewer parameters to adjust during deployment. The solution promises up to a 30% reduction in both energy and hardware footprints.

Designed specifically to address CSPs’ challenges in shifting from legacy systems, the Compact Packet Core ensures the smooth continuation of services and preserves the business logic of a CSP during installation, migration, upgrades, and expansions. The solution utilises Ericsson’s proven packet core software, thereby ensuring full interoperability across all deployment scenarios, including the Compact Packet Core.

Glen Hunt, Principal Analyst at GlobalData, commented: “It is no secret that CSPs face common and testing challenges when upgrading their cloud deployment models to introduce or expand the benefits of a cloud-native operating model or lead towards the deployment of 5G Core.

“Ericsson’s Compact Packet Core removes the barrier to deployment that comes with lengthy interoperability and integration testing by virtue of being a pre-integrated solution, and its in-built configurations and reduced footprint demands mean a less costly, complex, and time-consuming migration is possible.”

Ericsson’s movement towards cloud-native solutions is gaining momentum. As of October 2024, Ericsson has secured over 120 unique 5G Core or cloud-native commercial contracts, with more than 55 live dual-mode 5G Core solution customers – encompassing EPC, 5G NSA, and 5G SA live clients.

The transition to 5G SA is especially noteworthy. Research from the Ericsson Mobility Report indicates that by 2030, nearly 60% of 5G subscriptions – translating to 3.6 billion – will be 5G SA.

Further research in Europe has shown a willingness among consumers to pay a premium to boost connectivity and app experiences at major events such as concerts and sporting fixtures. CSPs can leverage 5G SA to offer differentiated connectivity services, like reserving part of the network to guarantee specific users or applications a quality experience.

Ericsson currently powers 37 of the world’s 60+ commercially live 5G SA networks, utilising its RAN solutions alongside the cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core solution.

(Image Credit: Ericsson)

See also: T-Mobile denies it’s ditching Nokia for Ericsson

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Tags: 5G, 5g sa, 5g standalone, cloud, cloud-native, core, csp, ericsson, infrastructure, Networks, packet core, telecoms