Driving tangible monetization and business growth through 5G network slicing
Network slicing is rapidly gaining traction in the telecommunications industry, with communication service providers (CSPs) like T-Mobile US, Reliance Jio, Singtel, SFR, DT, Telia and Elisa successfully offering commercial services based on this technology. These services cater to enterprises, industries, fixed wireless access (FWA), applications and events, presenting operators with unparalleled opportunities to monetize 5G networks.
Nokia, a leading solution provider in end-to-end network slicing solutions, has deployed industry-first slicing solutions across enterprise 4G/5G virtual private networks, FWA, multi-access networks and edge/cloud applications. Through global collaborations, Nokia helps CSPs transform slicing capabilities into monetizable opportunities.
In this blog I will explore how network slicing supports CSPs to deliver compelling services that create new customer value and meet the specific use case demands.
Unlocking unprecedented enterprise opportunities with network slicing
Sliced 5G Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) enable CSPs to provide high-performing, secure and managed network services tailored to specific enterprise needs across various regions. Industries such as media, retail, utilities, transportation and public safety are already benefitting from these services. Network slicing enables companies to access private network benefits on a public mobile network through sliced VPNs.
CSPs have introduced premium slicing plans to enhance service flexibility. For example, Telia and SFR offer sliced mobile plans, enabling business customers to access virtualized enterprise networks. These services can be conveniently ordered via customer portals, streamlining adoption.
Taking this further, sliced enterprise Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) models expand capabilities. NaaS lets CSPs provide managed slicing services with guaranteed network performance, reliability, and security, tailored for specific areas like campuses, cities or broader regions.
Through sliced public 4G/5G networks, CSPs can rapidly deploy turnkey solution complemented by professional services and different maintenance packages. NaaS also facilitates connectivity to enterprise data networks and private or public clouds hosting critical applications.
In the USA, T-Mobile is moving towards a NaaS model, starting with their “T-Priority” slicing service, which is targeted at first responders and public safety companies.
Monetizing fixed wireless and multi-access slicing
Network slicing for FWA allows CSPs to create premium broadband plans tailored to homes and small offices. By dynamically balancing network loads between FWA and mobile users, slicing ensures an optimized customer experience and reduced bottlenecks. Dedicated FWA slices cater to specific needs, such as gaming, streaming or XR, providing low latency and high bandwidth connectivity. Notably, both Elisa and Reliance Jio, now offer premium FWA services with network slicing to their customers.
Multi-access slicing solutions extend beyond 5G mobile and FWA to include Fixed Optical Access, offering unified subscriber and service experience across all network accesses. Case in point, Nokia has been working with e& in the UAE on multi-access slicing. By bundling fixed and mobile assets, CSPs can create and deliver new attractive services for both consumers and businesses.
Application slicing through tiered subscription models
Application slicing transforms 5G by enabling operators to provide tailored and tiered mobile services. Using technologies like URSP (UE Route Selection Policy), operators can optimize network slices for specific applications, such as gaming, AI and business applications in the latest smartphones and devices.
Tiered plans allow consumers to select bundles tailored to their interests, such as gaming or curated content. For instance, in Germany, Deutsche Telekom is using new 5G slicing functions to create a lag-free gaming experience on the go for their customers.
Companies can use application slicing to enhance the performance and security of critical business applications. Users can also purchase and activate slices on-demand for specific events or activities, providing personalized experiences.
Expanding slicing business with Multi-Access Edge Computing
Combining network slicing with Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) offers CSPs a powerful avenue to new services and revenue generation. It enables CSPs to expand network slicing business with cloud computing services. Network slices can be connected to edge, regional and central data centers, delivering high-capacity and low latency cloud services.
5G user experiences are elevated with premium slices optimized for diverse applications, whether located at the enterprise, CSP or service provider edge. For example, Nokia has collaborated with A1 and Microsoft Azure to advance edge cloud network slicing capabilities.
By merging network slicing with MEC, CSPs can not only unlock fresh revenue opportunities but also foster partnerships with cloud and application service providers, driving innovation and growth in the digital ecosystem.
Partnering with Nokia to turn the network into a monetization platform
Nokia’s pioneering approach to network slicing equips CSPs to design and deploy monetizable slicing solutions. With deep technical and business expertise, extensive field experience and an advanced 5G solution portfolio, Nokia enables CSPs to unlock the full potential of 5G. By combining innovation with practical deployment strategies, we deliver comprehensive solutions for designing and implementing end-to-end sliced networks. These span the entire ecosystem—from devices and RAN/FAN to transport, core, and cloud applications—integrating management, control, orchestration and assurance, enabling new 5G monetization opportunities. We are well-equipped to support you in kickstarting your slicing business journey.
Interested in learning more? Visit our web page on 5G edge slicing, or connect with our subject matter experts to discover how our edge network slicing solutions can benefit your business.
