Amid ongoing digital transformation and urbanization in the MENA region, ultra-reliable, low-latency communication networks for public safety agencies and critical infrastructure industries are growing in importance. To keep up with the requirements of this dynamic ecosystem, where any failure or delay can lead to serious, potentially catastrophic consequences, governments and enterprises must prioritize mission-critical communications to enhance emergency response, boost industrial efficiency and advance automation.

One of the primary challenges organizations in this space face is achieving consistent and secure wireless connectivity across large, complex areas that include both indoor and outdoor environments. Traditional networks often struggle with interference, limited scalability and patchy coverage. At Ericsson, we address these issues with dedicated networks that provide interference-free communication.

Transforming the ecosystem with dedicated networks

The rise of dedicated networks is significantly transforming the operational landscape of mission-critical environments by delivering reliable and agile connectivity that is essential for rapid response and uninterrupted operations in sectors such as emergency services and utilities.

With the high bandwidth and ultra-low latency of 5G, organizations can automate key processes, deploy autonomous vehicles and IoT devices, and enable real-time data monitoring and analytics to enhance efficiency and operational visibility. This technology provides end-to-end security and robust communications, making enterprises more resilient to disruptions while streamlining incident response.

Additionally, dedicated networks help cut down on operational costs and energy consumption by minimizing the need for physical cabling and allowing for smarter asset management and predictive maintenance. Overall, these networks are empowering critical industries to modernize and drive sustainability while remaining adaptable to evolving needs.

Dedicated networks can be configured to meet specific operational needs, supporting high device density and mission-critical applications. By combining 5G with edge computing, organizations can process data closer to where it is generated, enabling real-time responsiveness and reducing vulnerability to cloud latency.

Making every moment count

In mission-critical communications, time is of the essence. At Ericsson, we have piloted a wide range of time-critical use cases. With its ability to resolve major causes of latency and increase the reliability of 5G networks, our latest Time-Critical Communication (TCC) solution represents the biggest differentiator between 5G and non-cellular technologies as well as previous generations of cellular systems.

One of the building blocks of our 5G TCC solution is low latency, low loss, scalable throughput (L4S), part of our 5G Advanced software capabilities. Last year, we marked the first successful implementation of L4S in a 5G commercial network in the Middle East and Africa with e& UAE. The achievement represents a significant milestone in the communication service provider’s journey towards 5G Advanced, empowering the company to enrich its 5G capabilities to cater to time-sensitive industrial control and mobility automation use cases. The deployment underscores the tangible improvements that advanced networks can bring to safety outcomes and operational resilience.

Harnessing the power of emerging technologies

Emerging technologies, such as AI, edge computing and IoT, enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance and process automation that minimizes manual intervention, ensures precise operations and reduces accident risks.

AI-powered digital twins and smart analytics optimize workflows and resource allocation. AI also boosts incident detection and rapid response, creating a safer environment for everyone. Edge computing processes data close to where it is needed so decisions can be made quickly. Meanwhile, IoT devices collect important information from different areas of operations, creating digital models to better manage and maintain equipment. Together, these technologies assist enterprises in running robust operations, preparing for future challenges and growing sustainably.

Towards a resilient mission-critical future

At Ericsson, we see future-ready public safety agencies and critical infrastructure industry players as highly digital, automated hubs powered by dedicated networks that provide seamless connectivity across vast areas for rapid data sharing and informed decision-making.

To achieve this, targeted investments in advanced digital communications infrastructure and dedicated network deployments are imperative. Ecosystem collaboration beyond vendor marketing also plays a crucial role in driving business innovation. Organizations must seek out trusted partners that can help them find the right game-changing technology for their mission-critical needs and make it easy to use, adopt and scale. Only this way can they rely on continuous and secure connectivity where it matters most.

By Todd Ashton, Head of the Enterprise & Mission-Critical Division at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa

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