Connectivity for Enterprises In an increasingly globalized and fast-paced world, it is of great importance for enterprises to possess a safe, quick, and efficient network that allows them to keep up with it to perform at their best. A secure network will also lower operating costs. Just imagine 7-Eleven and all the connected branches: they need to verify there is smooth communication between the headquarters and the branches (as shown in the hub and spoke model), which may vary in different regions, cities, and countries. Even though we have already had technologies connecting us, these traditional might have some limitations and affect the connectivity. Therefore, it is vital for an enterprise to utilize better technologies. In this article, we present and compare three alternatives that provide better networks for enterprises. First, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), a system that is a reliable, flexible, scalable, and efficient way of connecting real-time applications. Despite these benefits, MPLS is very expensive and takes a long time to deploy. In addition, since the service provider is in charge of constructing the network and setting up every single one of the devices, the enterprise will lose some control over MPLS and they will depend largely on the provider. Second, SD-WAN, a virtual infrastructure. It is a better, cheaper, and more flexible alternative compared to MPLS. It also provides network independence, however, it is important to have people in the department who know how to manage this software. On the other hand, this software is not able to identify between the branches’ network (it gives the same default IP address to all of them), which makes the communication between devices disabled until an engineer solves this problem. Also, even though the deployment time is shorter than the MPLS, it still takes a long time and great effort. Third, ecWAN, which is better than the previous ones. In the first place, ecWAN is a software that is installed in the existing infrastructure that solves the issues that SD-WAN has. It “translates” the IP addresses, giving each router a unique virtual identity that distinguishes it from others, in other words, it unifies management in a clearer way. ecWAN creates an overlay network to bridge branches from office networks in other regions; with this technology, distance is not an obstacle and connectivity will be as if the branches were in the neighborhood. Secondly, the deployment time of this alternative is considerably shorter and simpler, and requires less work. Besides this, ecWAN transfers more data in less time and it sets priorities to different subnets to assure the best quality of service (QoS).

What is Industrial 5G 5G is becoming increasingly popular, not only for personal use, but also for industrial purposes due to its ability to carry mass data and be highly responsive. Companies combine 5G with other technologies (like AI or Big Data) to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations, transforming their industries to the #industry40. 5G is the future of industrial operations. It provides comprehensive connectivity, low latency, and high bandwidth. 5G is not only faster and more flexible than wired-connection, but it can also improve work efficiency, ensure the safety of the workers, optimize logistics scheduling and distribution, reduce cost of production line reconfiguration, increase system reliability, to name a few. According to the article 5G in Manufacturing by PwC, the intelligent systems of industrial 5G allow product optimisation, modular factory, enterprise connectivity, human-machine interface, supply chain integration, preventive maintenance, and safety. To know some examples of uses of Industrial 5G, check our success stories: 1. High resolution data transmission and real-time video: A Connected Fully Equipped Ambulance Controlled and Operated by Remote Center over 5G Network for Defence Innovation: https://esix.co/success-stories/a-5g-connected-fully-equipped-ambulance-controlled-and-operated-by-remote-center/ 2. Bidirectional control and centralized management: Break Through the Possibilities for Mobility Supervisor Control in Ultra-High Speed Network in Tianjin Port: https://esix.co/success-stories/break-through-the-possibilities-for-mobility-supervisor-control-in-ultra-high-speed-network/ If you would like to know about the Three Main Features of 5G, click here to check: https://esix.co/featured-articles/what-are-the-three-main-features-of-5g/ Source: https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/tmt/5g/pwc-5G-in-manufacturing.pdf

What are the Three Main Features of 5G The Superfast fifth-generation, or 5G, ushers in a new era of wireless networking, connecting everyone and everything, everywhere better. It has ultra-low latency, larger data rates, higher reliability and network availability. 5G has three main features that makes this technology so special: eMBB, URLCC, and mMTC. First, eMBB (or enhanced Mobile Broadband) allows a higher data bandwidth, in other words, it provides a high number of data being transferred rapidly. This feature is mainly used in mobile devices, for instance, to develop AR/VR applications, streaming sports games or concerts, download high-resolution videos, or play online games. It is also being used in industrial scenarios, for instance, to develop 3D models or to implement automated inspections (as AOI). Second, the URLLC (or Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications) provides a high probability of delivering data successfully within a certain period of time. Indeed, the latency of 5G is 1-10 milliseconds and it has a 99.99% reliability. A popular implementation of this important feature is the development of critical autonomous machinery or highly reliable self-driving vehicles. Finally, mMTC (or massive Machine Type Communications) supplies connectivity to an enormous number of IoT devices, allowing multiple devices to send and receive data from a single 5G base station. This feature is commonly used in smart cities, homes, factories, or even in smart agriculture. Sources https://www.pwc.com/gx/en/tmt/5g/pwc-5G-in-manufacturing.pdf https://www.3gpp.org/news-events/1774-5g_wiseharbour

Industrial Wireless: WiFi 6 or 5G? So after hearing all of the benefits of connecting your company using networking technologies, you decided you want it for your business. But, should you choose Wi-Fi 6 or 5G? Both of these options are the more recent forms of their respective technologies, and they both assure greater capacity, reduced latency, and higher efficiency. To decide between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G, we need to ponder over the given application, the specific sector, and the mobility requirements. Comparatively, 5G has lower latency, larger throughput, and larger connection density than Wi-Fi 6. 5G is also a more flexible option, as it uses less data volume and assures more reliability than Wi-Fi 6. On the other hand, generally, the cost of deploying Wi-Fi 6 is lower than its counterpart with less installation skills required. It is also important to consider the function given to the networking technology. If the company needs to handle fast-movement elements or automotive technologies that require a high quality of service and low latency, 5G would be the better option. It is also recommended to use 5G in case that require a Wide Area Network (WAN; a network that connects computers in large areas) or outdoor spaces because of its greater signal propagation. In contrast, if you are in need of connectivity in smaller spaces with fewer connections or specific hotspots, such as homes or offices, Wi-Fi 6 will be a more favorable option. However, these two technologies are competitors only when a company is looking for connectivity for a Local Area Network (LAN, a network that connects computers in small areas). These two alternatives can also be used as complements. For instance, some companies that require constant connection use Wi-Fi 6 for indoor coverage and adopt 5G for both indoor and outdoor areas, which can be done by using a 5G CPE with high speed and seamless internet. Sources https://bit.ly/3EMl6KI https://www.cisco.com/c/m/en_us/solutions/enterprise-networks/802-11ax-solution/nb-06-5-things-WiFi6-5G-infograph-cte-en.html?oid=otren016003