At Alliance Telecom, we recognize the vital importance of staying ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. With 5G networks being deployed globally, many operators are initially launching their new radio cellular networks, followed by the core networks.
5G NSA (Non-Stand-Alone)
This transition has led mobile operators to introduce international 5G roaming, utilizing their cutting-edge 5G radio networks while still relying on existing 4G/LTE/EPC core infrastructures. This approach is known as 5G NSA roaming.
Supporting our clients every step of the way, Alliance Telecom’s Key2roam Roaming Hub has been establishing 5G NSA roaming partnerships since 2020. By leveraging the same network interfaces as 4G/LTE roaming, we empower our customers to embark on their 5G journey, upgrading their roaming connections and testing their 5G radio networks for roaming capabilities.
What’s Next for 5G Roaming?
As the rollout of 5G core networks accelerates, the demand for the next phase—5G SA (Stand-Alone) roaming—is on the rise.
5G SA core networks introduce an entirely new array of standards, functions, components, and interfaces—along with a plethora of new acronyms!
We are all navigating a steep learning curve. The technical interworking and roaming standards are still being defined, as critical decisions must be made regarding the balance between necessary security measures and practical implementation. This balance is essential to enable mobile operators to successfully launch 5G SA roaming.
Having learned from previous challenges, we are committed to ensuring robust security while also establishing practical standards that allow mobile operators to collaborate effectively with vendors, avoiding overly stringent rules that could impede or delay the rollout of 5G SA roaming.
Alliance Telecom’s 5G SA Proof of Concept
Alliance Telecom is spearheading a 5G SA roaming Proof of Concept for our clients and IPX peering partners. This initiative enables us, as a community, to explore these new network elements and protocols while resolving compatibility issues as early as possible.
We are connecting 5G SA-ready customers to our 5G SEPPs, conducting pre-standard end-to-end roaming tests within a fully managed, secure environment.
Our PoC encompasses essential bilateral and Roaming Hub functions and procedures, including relation-based routing, device testing, service traffic reporting, traffic steering, troubleshooting, and charging.
We are gearing up for a new era of 5G roaming. If you’re ready to embark on this exciting journey with Alliance Telecom and want to participate in our 5G SA roaming Proof of Concept, please reach out to us at sales@alliancetelecomservices.com.