Dell’Oro Group’s Mobile Core Network & Multi-access Edge Computing research tracks the evolution of the mobile core as service providers transition from 4G to 5G Standalone (SA) and prepare for 5G Advanced and future 6G services. The reports analyze the global market across core network functions and MEC, providing insight into technology adoption, market growth, vendor positioning, and regional trends.
The research examines how cloud-native, virtualized, and containerized architectures are transforming the Mobile Core Network into a more agile, service-based platform. It tracks the transition from 4G Non-Standalone (NSA) to 5G SA, as well as technological enhancements defined by 3GPP standards, including network slicing, RedCap, Voice over New Radio (VoNR), enhanced positioning, and AI/ML.
The research also covers Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC), including how the separation of core network control and user planes enables distributed User Plane Functions (UPFs) closer to users and applications.
As 5G Radio Access Networks become widely deployed, the Mobile Core Network is becoming a primary area of differentiation for service providers. The transition to 5G SA creates new opportunities to monetize the network, enhance users’ quality of experience, and improve operational efficiency.
However, the impact on service provider operations can be substantial, and investment strategies vary depending on strategic objectives, regional policies, and the competitive environment. Understanding these transitions helps industry participants assess where spending is headed and which technologies and vendors are positioned to benefit.
