Spirent Communications released its sixth annual 5G Outlook Report, analyzing 415 new 5G engagements in 2024 and outlining key developments for the second half of the 5G era. While early revenue expectations for 5G were tempered by deployment challenges, the report highlights growing momentum in 5G Standalone (SA) and 5G-Advanced deployments, which are expected to drive new revenue streams and enhanced network capabilities. Key industry efforts in security, automation, and service monetization indicate a shift toward cloud-native, AI-driven, and differentiated 5G offerings as operators look to expand services like fixed wireless access (FWA), private networks, and time-sensitive networking (TSN).
Spirent collaborated with over 50 service providers, network equipment manufacturers, and hyperscalers in 2024, focusing on performance, security, and lifecycle management. Key takeaways from the report include the increased adoption of 5G Cloud-Native Core, emphasizing automation and continuous testing; a strong focus on security and resilience in 5G SA deployments; and growing demand for quality-of-experience (QoE) testing for services like gaming, VoNR, and MEC. The report also explores emerging trends such as 5G FWA for enterprises, AI’s role in telecom, non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and early 6G research.
Key Points
• 5G SA and 5G-Advanced Momentum: Increased focus on standalone networks and next-gen service deployment.
• Cloud-Native Core Adoption: Automated lifecycle management and CI/CD pipeline integration drive agility.
• Security and Resilience: 5G SA deployments emphasize cloud-native security validation and service continuity.
• Quality-of-Experience Testing: Demand grows for 5G FWA, VoNR, gaming, and MEC benchmarking.
• Pathways to Monetization: 5G RedCap, private networks, TSN, and AI-driven services present new revenue opportunities.
Spirent’s report It’s Halftime for 5G: Progress, Key Plays and Future Prospects is available to download
