Private Network Operators: Current Market Status, Emerging Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities

Despite their relative size, Private Network Operators are experiencing significant growth in the market. Counterpoint Research forecasts that the private networks market will reach $21.8 billion by 2030 (Usankin, 2020). The global private 5G network market is also expected to grow substantially, with a projected worth of USD 41.80 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 49.7% (Ann, 2022). Another report states that the private wireless networks market was valued at US$ 2.80 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 23.32%. Moreover, the global private 5G network market size was valued at USD 2.00 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 51.2% from 2023 to 2030. (Sarah, 2024)

The emerging Private Network Operators industry trends are shaping its growth and potential. One significant trend is the growing adoption of full “production” deployments for 4G/LTE and 5G infrastructure and applications. This trend is driving the private network market towards maturity as operators implement these networks on a larger scale. (Somenath Nag, 2023) (Ann, 2022)

Another notable trend is the transition from proof-of-concept deployments to large-scale deployments. Private networks are no longer limited to experimental use cases but are being extensively deployed in various industries, including enterprises and industrial users. This transition is driven by the need to leverage advanced 5G capabilities and features, making private networks a fundamental way for businesses to harness the potential of 5G technology. (Usankin, 2020) (Ann, 2022)

The emergence of private 5G networks is also a significant trend in the Private Network Operators industry. Private 5G networks offer enhanced security, low latency, and high bandwidth, enabling businesses to create dedicated networks tailored to their needs. This trend aligns with the increasing demand for reliable and high-performance wireless connectivity in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. (Sarah, 2024)

Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) is another trend gaining traction in the private network landscape. NaaS offers businesses the flexibility to outsource their network infrastructure management, allowing them to focus on their core competencies while leveraging the expertise of network service providers. This trend simplifies network operations and reduces costs for Private Network Operators and their clients. (Sarah, 2024)

Private Network Operators face several significant challenges that impact their market status and present growth opportunities. These challenges include infrastructure deployment, integration of 5G technology with legacy systems, high implementation costs, regulatory and technical difficulties, connectivity and security issues, and the need for affordable solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Infrastructure deployment is a crucial challenge for Private Network Operators, as establishing a private network requires significant infrastructure, including base stations, small cells, and antennas. The deployment process can be particularly challenging in rural or remote locations due to geographic obstacles and increased costs. (Somenath Nag, 2023)

Integrating 5G technology with legacy systems or existing IT infrastructure is another obstacle for Private Network Operators. Coexisting 5G with older technologies requires careful planning and implementation to ensure compatibility and seamless operation. (Usankin, 2020)

High implementation costs pose a significant challenge for Private Network Operators, especially for manufacturing enterprises. The expenses include infrastructure deployment, equipment, and ongoing maintenance. (Ann, 2022)

Regulatory, technical, connectivity, and security issues are significant concerns for private network operators. Regulatory challenges can arise from compliance requirements and licensing issues. Technical challenges encompass the complexities of network management and ensuring efficient and reliable connectivity. Security challenges involve safeguarding the private network from cyber threats and maintaining data privacy. (Sarah, 2024)

To fully realize their potential, private networks must be affordable for businesses of all sizes. Affordability is crucial in enabling the widespread adoption of private networks. (Sarah, 2024)

Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for Private Network Operators to overcome them and thrive in the market. Sixfab products can play a crucial role in supporting this industry by addressing private network operators’ challenges. Here are a few examples of how Sixfab products can be beneficial:

• Sixfab 4G/LTE Modem Kit enhances the Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 by providing LTE capabilities and featuring options for Telit and Quectel modems to ensure superior connectivity. It is ideally suited for developing Proof of Concept (PoC) applications utilizing LTE technology.
• Sixfab 5G Modem Kit upgrades the Raspberry Pi 5 with advanced 5G connectivity, featuring the Quectel RM502Q-AE modem, to facilitate fast and easy development of private network applications. This setup is especially effective for creating Proof of Concept (PoC) applications within private 5G networks, utilizing the high throughput and low latency of 5G technology for rapid prototyping and deployment.
• Sixfab Jumpstart 5G kit is a comprehensive toolkit designed to rapidly and efficiently develop 5G-enabled applications on the Raspberry Pi. This all-in-one package, presented in a stylish, compact box, includes the Quectel RM502Q-AE 5G modem and other essential components, offering a seamless plug-and-play experience with all necessary certifications for immediate deployment. It is ideally suited for Proof of Concept (PoC) and pilot projects, as well as for swift deployments in the field, facilitating a smooth transition from concept to operational use in 5G network environments.

In conclusion, Private Network Operators are experiencing growth in the market, and emerging trends such as full deployments, transition to large-scale deployments, private 5G networks, and NaaS are shaping the industry. Despite significant challenges, Sixfab products enable a seamless transition from development to field deployment, characterized by streamlined development processes and rapid deployment features for 5G applications. They are particularly advantageous for crafting tailor-made private network applications, providing the flexibility and functionality required to meet specific operational needs. This adaptability makes Sixfab products essential tools for operators looking to create customized solutions in the evolving landscape of private networks.

For further information and product details, visit the website at www.sixfab.com.