As digital transformation gains momentum, driven by the enthusiasm for technologies like generative AI, enterprises are increasingly eager to adopt bold technology strategies that can innovate, enhance customer offerings, and generate new revenue. It is within this context that private 5G networks are anticipated to integrate into mainstream business operations by 2025.
Verizon Business’s 5G Acceleration division has focused on developing the market for private 5G and associated technologies such as edge computing. Throughout 2023, the company placed significant emphasis on educating the market about the benefits of private 5G in improving customer operations. This initiative saw substantial business growth in 2024, with more networks becoming operational as 2025 approaches.
A central theme in these developments is the richer IT strategy conversations now possible due to expanded customer understanding and the drive for tech-driven transformation. Businesses are not only exploring the 5G platform itself but also desired business outcomes, applications, devices, and the comprehensive technology ecosystem needed for success.
In 2025, private wireless is expected to move from being a niche technology to becoming mainstream, aligning with other crucial technologies such as mobility, fixed-wireless, cloud, and broadband. Neutral-host network products have emerged as significant momentum drivers, owing to their cost- and space-efficiency. These networks effectively complement private 5G by providing reliable macro-network connectivity for general use while the private network ensures secure, high-bandwidth operations.
Enterprise flexibility is also a key trend, as businesses shift their focus from mere cost efficiencies to innovation and revenue growth. The combination of private and neutral-host networks allows for unique workflows and operational efficiency. Enterprises can start with neutral-host connectivity and gradually activate a private core network for more complex tasks, facilitating a phased and manageable approach to digital transformation.
Moreover, there’s a growing demand for turnkey solutions that provide comprehensive, integrated services from core network engineering to in-building wiring. Such solutions help reduce deployment delays and inefficiencies. Service providers are evolving to become trusted advisors and strategic partners, aiding businesses in navigating new technologies, optimizing hardware for Industry 4.0 use cases, and integrating IoT platforms.
Taking private wireless mainstream requires balancing customer ambitions with platform flexibility and ease of use. As businesses grow more comfortable with advanced wireless infrastructure, service providers must be prepared to seamlessly integrate new ecosystem components. Emphasis on APIs, self-service tools, and ease-of-management will empower IT teams to innovate with minimal effort. Successful outcomes will hinge on collaboration between customers and service providers to ensure robust, flexible, and integrated network capabilities.
