The private 5G market is set to reach £6 billion globally by 2027, transforming how businesses operate and communicate. With speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, 5G technology is particularly crucial for companies seeking to enhance their operational efficiency and digital capabilities.
In fact, businesses implementing 5G-enabled solutions could generate an additional £1.2 trillion in annual GDP by 2030 through increased productivity. From establishing reliable 5G internet coverage to optimising network performance across workplace devices, companies must understand the practical steps for successful 5G integration.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential steps for getting 5G working effectively in your business environment. It covers everything from assessing network requirements and infrastructure setup to employee training and measuring return on investment.
Understanding Your Business 5G Needs
Successful 5G implementation begins with a thorough evaluation of your organisation’s network requirements. According to recent surveys, although 86% of businesses claim to have a 5G strategy, merely 15% are actively investing in its implementation. Therefore, understanding your specific needs becomes crucial for effective deployment.
Assess current network performance
A comprehensive network assessment helps create a detailed map of your existing infrastructure and future requirements. Through signal propagation analysis, businesses can identify potential coverage gaps and optimise network performance. Additionally, proper network optimisation through detailed surveys can increase network capacity by up to 30%.
When evaluating current network performance, focus on:
- Signal strength across different areas of your workplace
- Data transfer speeds and latency rates
- Network congestion points
- Coverage gaps, especially in challenging indoor environments
- Potential interference sources
Businesses should request detailed specifications from carriers regarding:
- Current and planned 5G coverage
- Performance metrics and throughput capabilities
- Endpoint availability timelines
- Corporate plan structures
Identify key business operations requiring 5G
The feature-rich nature of 5G introduces complexities that make its performance highly conditional on various factors. Subsequently, businesses must identify operations that would benefit most from 5G capabilities.
A thorough assessment reveals that companies at the Implementation stage of 5G deployment experienced notably better outcomes. These organisations achieved 37% rapid growth compared to 20% for those in the Planning phase. Furthermore, only 5G-mature companies managed to increase customer engagement by 12% during challenging times.
Key operational areas where 5G can make significant impact include:
- Predictive Maintenance: 5G-enabled sensors monitor equipment in real-time, generating data that helps prevent failures before they occur. This approach enables just-in-time acquisition of materials, enhancing both operational efficiency and cash-flow management.
- Supply Chain Management: Real-time tracking and monitoring through 5G connectivity allow businesses to maintain optimal inventory levels and respond swiftly to supply chain disruptions.
- Remote Operations: With ultra-reliable connectivity, businesses can manage critical operations remotely. This capability has proven particularly valuable, as Implementation-stage organisations maintained productivity levels better (-3%) compared to those in Planning (-15%) and Discovery (-40%) phases.
Before finalising 5G implementation plans, organisations should evaluate whether their current infrastructure requires upgrades. This includes assessing routers, antennas, laptops, smartphones, and fixed wireless access devices that may affect network performance.
Moreover, businesses must consider their specific use cases – whether they need high speeds for autonomous systems, zero latency for IoT connectivity, or reliable connections for smart sensors. Each choice shapes how the network upgrade should proceed.
For optimal results, organisations should develop realistic budgets for 5G implementation and negotiate with carriers to include 5G services in standard 4G LTE corporate device plans without additional fees. This strategic approach ensures cost-effective deployment whilst maximising the benefits of enhanced mobile broadband and ultra-reliable, low-latency communications.
Essential 5G Infrastructure Requirements
Setting up reliable 5G infrastructure demands careful consideration of hardware requirements, coverage assessment, and software compatibility. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) worldwide plan to invest over AUD 917.39 billion in 5G infrastructure between 2022 and 2025.
Network hardware checklist
A comprehensive 5G setup necessitates specific hardware components to ensure optimal performance. The fundamental architecture includes:
- Base stations with edge computing capabilities
- Small cell infrastructure for device-dense areas
- Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antennas
- Underground fibre networks for backhaul support
Small cell base stations, designed to blend seamlessly with existing landscapes, must maintain a 200-metre inter-site distance to prevent signal interference. These cells typically provide 100-metre radius coverage in higher-frequency bands.
Coverage assessment tools
Proper coverage assessment relies on sophisticated tools and methodologies. Drive tests remain the industry standard for evaluating network performance through measurements of:
- Signal Strength (RSSI/RSRP)
- Signal Quality (SINR/RSRQ)
- Call drop rate frequency
- Throughput levels
- Jitter levels
Nevertheless, crowdsourced data collection offers an alternative approach. Navigation apps can provide precise cellular coverage maps by tracking connectivity interruptions with accuracy up to 3-5 metres. This method helps identify potential network holes whilst reducing resource-intensive traditional testing methods.
Software compatibility check
Software compatibility encompasses multiple layers of network infrastructure. The 5G core network requires:
- Cloud-native network architecture
- Service-based framework
- Virtualised network functions
Traditional service assurance tools prove ineffective for virtualised 5G networks. Instead, businesses need solutions offering:
- Visibility down to the Virtual Network Function layer
- Lightweight virtual instrumentation for edge computing
- Automated orchestration capabilities
Network monitoring software must ensure proper configuration backup and restoration capabilities for Software-Defined Networking controllers. Likewise, the monitoring solution should track individual virtual network function performance metrics, including request and response times for virtual Domain Name Systems.
For optimal network performance, businesses must maintain 99.999% network availability and 99.99% reliability. This requires comprehensive coverage planning and regular assessment of propagation models to calculate accurate cell ranges.
Setting Up 5G Network at Your Workplace
Deploying a private 5G network requires meticulous planning and execution to ensure optimal performance. A well-structured implementation approach helps businesses achieve seamless connectivity whilst maximising their investment returns.
Installation process overview
The installation process begins with a comprehensive site survey to understand the physical and radio environment. This crucial step reveals potential signal penetration challenges, radio dead spots, and infrastructure requirements. Following the survey, businesses must create a detailed bill of materials outlining the cost of essential infrastructure components.
The core components needed for installation include:
- Base stations with small cell hardware
- Remote radio heads and associated interconnect cabling
- Upstream connectivity infrastructure
- Core network services tailored to organisational needs
Small cell deployment proves particularly effective, as these units can be mounted on walls and ceilings to provide necessary coverage. Remarkably, these cells deliver up to 10 times greater coverage compared to traditional Wi-Fi access points.
For optimal signal transmission, businesses should:
- Place routers near windows in open spaces
- Avoid thick walls and UV-protected windows
- Consider external antennas for challenging locations
- Maintain proper distance between cell sites to prevent interference
Coverage optimisation steps
After initial deployment, thorough coverage optimisation becomes essential for network reliability. The process involves several key stages to achieve the mandated 99.999% network availability.
First, conduct post-deployment verification to ensure cellular access points transmit signals as expected. This verification process helps identify areas requiring additional equipment or relocation of existing infrastructure.
Signal strength monitoring across different zones helps pinpoint:
- Coverage holes caused by obstacles
- Overshoot coverage areas
- Weak coverage zones
- Channel coverage mismatches
To rectify these issues, businesses should utilise drive test methods and performance measurements. These tests specifically detect weak coverage locations and unsuccessful handovers, enabling precise adjustments.
Coverage enhancement techniques significantly boost overall system performance. Small cells deployed at strategic locations can increase coverage capacity and traffic offload at macro cell edges. Furthermore, proper adjustment of RF signal power within cell areas helps mitigate both weak and overshoot coverage issues.
For indoor environments, consider these optimisation strategies:
- Deploy femto cells to improve system throughput
- Implement distributed antenna systems
- Adjust antenna tilt angles for optimal coverage
- Use carrier aggregation for enhanced performance
Network planning tools play a vital role in predicting coverage and managing neighbouring cell relationships. ASSET radio planning tools help forecast network coverage, whilst RAN planning tools facilitate ongoing monitoring.
Regular assessment of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) ensures the network maintains optimal performance levels. These measurements should track:
- Signal strength and quality
- Network latency rates
- Data transfer speeds
- Connexion stability
- Handover success rates
Through systematic optimisation, businesses can achieve the high network reliability (99.99%) required for mission-critical applications. This approach ensures consistent performance across all workplace areas whilst maintaining the flexibility to adapt to changing business needs.
Employee Training for 5G Integration
Proper training programmes stand as a cornerstone for successful 5G integration within business operations. Recent studies indicate that organisations at the implementation stage of 5G deployment achieved 37% rapid growth, whilst those in the planning phase reached only 20% growth.
Creating training materials
Comprehensive training materials must cover both theoretical knowledge and practical applications of 5G technology. The curriculum should encompass:
- Network architecture fundamentals
- Radio access technologies
- Protocol understanding
- Security considerations
- Deployment strategies
Training materials should start with basic 5G concepts and gradually progress towards advanced topics. Through hands-on practise sessions, employees gain practical experience with network components and learn to optimise performance effectively.
Mixed reality applications over 5G networks have proven particularly effective for practical training. These applications require latency under 20 milliseconds, which becomes achievable solely through 5G connectivity. For instance, port operatives can now inspect harbour cranes under remote guidance from expert trainers, receiving step-by-step maintenance support via cloud-based applications.
Setting up support systems
Establishing robust support systems ensures smooth transition and ongoing assistance for employees adapting to 5G technology. Businesses should implement:
- Dedicated Support Packages
- On-demand learning resources
- Interactive network diagrams
- Technical documentation
- Troubleshooting guides
Field engineers benefit immensely from specialised role-based Radio Access Network training and certifications. These programmes equip staff with the expertise needed for planning, support, and optimisation of 5G Radio Access Networks.
To maintain high standards, businesses should seek training programmes certified by recognised industry bodies. Certifications validate expertise and skills whilst ensuring worldwide recognition. Furthermore, continuous learning programmes help employees stay current with evolving 5G technologies and emerging security challenges.
For optimal results, organisations should:
- Partner with universities and technical training institutes
- Develop role-specific curricula
- Offer internal training programmes
- Create mentorship opportunities
Mixed reality training solutions have shown remarkable effectiveness, primarily in manufacturing and logistics sectors. These solutions enable trainees to learn faster through regular intervals in controlled, simulated environments. Tactile internet capabilities through 5G even add haptic feedback to practical lessons, enhancing the learning experience considerably.
Support systems should also focus on teamwork and leadership development, as these skills prove crucial for success in the 5G era. Regular assessment of training effectiveness helps identify areas requiring additional attention or modification.
By implementing comprehensive training programmes and support systems, businesses ensure their workforce remains capable of handling the complexities of 5G technology. This approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also positions the organisation for sustained growth in an increasingly connected business landscape.
Measuring 5G Performance and ROI
Conclusion
5G technology certainly represents a significant shift in how businesses operate, communicate and grow. Companies implementing 5G solutions stand to gain substantial competitive advantages through enhanced operational efficiency and digital capabilities.
Though setting up 5G infrastructure requires careful planning and investment, businesses that take systematic approaches see better results. Network assessment, proper hardware selection, and coverage optimisation serve as foundational elements for successful deployment. Mobile Corp, Australia’s leading 5G business internet provider, helps businesses navigate these technical challenges while ensuring optimal network performance.
Employee training undoubtedly plays a crucial role in 5G success. Businesses must develop comprehensive training programmes and support systems to help staff adapt to new technologies and processes. Regular performance monitoring through KPIs and ROI tracking helps organisations measure the impact of their 5G investments.
Companies that embrace 5G technology today position themselves for future growth. Those who delay implementation risk falling behind competitors who are already reaping the benefits of enhanced connectivity, improved operational efficiency, and innovative service delivery capabilities. Therefore, businesses should act now to assess their 5G readiness and begin their transformation journey.
