Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) began migrating to 5G Standalone (5G SA) networks in July of 2020, which requires the 5G Core (5GC) Service Based Architecture (SBA). These MNOs seek to use a specific 5GC SBA option—Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC)—as a way to monetize their networks. We expect that investments in MEC will accelerate the return-on-investment (ROI) for 5G SA, generating new revenue streams while simultaneously reducing networking costs.
By embracing MEC, MNOs can address new connectivity opportunities in the private wireless market space for industrial enterprises and others, such as Smart Cities, that need real-time or near real-time communications.
This whitepaper defines MEC and explains how it integrates into the 5GC SBA. It outlines the different flavors of MEC, the various options for deploying a MEC network, the realistic market opportunity for MNOs and their suppliers, and the ways in which certain MNOs are already reaping the benefits of implementing MEC.
