Dutch operator KPN has opted to use Ericsson’s standalone 5G core tech to replace Huawei in its network.
As part of the five-year agreement, Ericsson will deploy dual-mode 5G core software with full support services—including an accompanying systems integration program featuring third-line support services.
Babak Fouladi, Chief Technology and Digital Officer at KPN, says:
”With our new 5G core network, we are entering the next era of mobile technology. By partnering with Ericsson on the latest technologies, gigabit data rates, real-time communication and massive IoT are becoming reality.
This will enable new functionalities and capabilities for our customers and society and confirms KPN is truly delivering on its promise to be the network of the Netherlands.”
KPN has a multi-vendor policy and will use Huawei for its 5G radio network but said earlier this year that it would stick with a Western vendor for its 5G core.
Joost Farwerck, CEO of KPN, commented:
“With our new mobile core network, we are ready for the data flows of the future, real-time communication and massive IoT. This will open up new digital solutions for our customers and for Dutch society at large.
For the renewal of this part of our mobile network we use the latest network technologies that the market has to offer through technology partner Ericsson.”
Ericsson has been signing a flurry of deals in recent weeks after hitting the 100 commercial 5G agreements milestone in August.
KPN says that autonomous vehicles have already been connected to the Ericsson-powered 5G network as part of tests. The operator says technical implementations will begin before the end of the year.
Arun Bansal, President of Europe and Latin America at Ericsson, says:
”We are pleased to expand our 100-year partnership with KPN through our technology-leading 5G Core solutions. We will work closely with KPN to ensure that consumers and enterprises in the Netherlands can benefit from the emerging opportunities of 5G as it embraces digitalisation.
Ericsson’s cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core provides the cutting-edge, container-based, microservice architecture that will help KPN to both develop new business models as well as move onto the next level of network operational efficiency.”
Ericsson’s technology will help KPN deploy its first standalone 5G network although customers have been able to access 5G since July. At launch, KPN’s 5G network provided over 90 percent coverage in the top five cities in the Netherlands.
KPN says Ericsson’s technology will help it to handle increasing bandwidth demands through improved slicing capabilities.
