Network Slicing and NaaS (Network-as-a-Service) to Drive Operator 5G Monetization – Key Findings of the New Report by Comarch and The Fast Mode

The use of AI/ML in the dynamic instantiation of network slicing and the end-to-end orchestration of network domains is key to driving 5G network automation. It enables operators to deliver new and innovative services, including 5G Network-as-a-Service (NaaS). While there are major advancements in AI/ML-based network automation, challenges abound in deploying this network-wide, and in translating it, effectively, into new revenue streams across various 5G use cases.

Operators’ network slicing application strategy

Although network slicing has been among the hot topics of discussion in the communications industry in terms of the 5G technology rollout, there is definitely a visible discrepancy in what operators understand by the network slicing idea.

Turns out, the majority of survey respondents perceive network slicing as a smart mechanism that will allow customers to rent highly customized and virtualized pieces of the network on on-demand basis. Another big part of the operators believe network slicing to be best implemented in three slices that correspond to the 5G service categories: eMBB, URLLC and mMTC. A small percentage of CSPs thinks that the technology will have appliance in only one category – URLLC, or mMTC.
Only one percent of the respondents do not find network slicing to be of value in the nearest future.

Network slicing as the first step towards NaaS and 5G monetization

The conducted research shows that even close to 95% of the responders expect NaaS to have a major impact in driving operator revenues, and almost one third of those believe that it will be a real game changer. It’s hard not to agree – Network-as-a-Service will allow operators to deploy new services even quicker, and in an even more digitalized way. NaaS therefore offers a way to have more services, gain new customers, but also create new possibilities for partnerships.

Nevertheless, in order to start up with NaaS, operators first need to deal with some challenges that network slicing brings – and among those automation seems to be the biggest.

Telco operating models, NaaS monetization partnerships, and more

Uncover the whole report, produced jointly by Comarch and The Fast Mode, and read the findings in such areas as 5G network slicing application and vertical slicing models, the role of AI/ML in 5G network automation, the adoption of virtualization and edge computing, the impact of IT-telco convergence on operator operating models, 5G NaaS solution models and monetization partnership opportunities.

The ‘AI/ML for 5G Network Slicing: Accelerating NaaS Strategy’ based on the analysis of responses from 100 global operator respondents who participated in a survey earlier this year report is now available for download here.