Enterprises are in the midst of a significant transformation in network infrastructure, with wireless technology rapidly outpacing traditional wireline solutions.
The advent of 5G, coupled with innovative application programming interfaces (APIs) and enhanced security capabilities, is driving a shift towards a mobile-first approach among businesses. GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, highlights this evolution as promising to revolutionize corporate connectivity, offering unprecedented flexibility in an increasingly mobile-centric world.
Traditionally, wireless technology has served as a secondary option to wireline in enterprise networking, primarily acting as a backup solution. However, the deployment of standalone (SA) 5G marks a substantial leap forward in the bandwidth and programmability offered by wireless access networks. In response, network operators and industry groups are actively working to enhance the appeal of wireless options for enterprises and developers alike.
Gary Barton, Research Director for Enterprise Technology and Services at GlobalData, notes the longstanding appeal of “wires-free” messaging to enterprises. While WiFi has surpassed Ethernet LAN, signs now suggest that wireless technology could emerge as a dominant force in the wide area network (WAN) space, albeit with security concerns serving as a key barrier to widespread adoption.
Addressing the security challenges inherent in accessing data via mobile devices remains a priority for businesses. The human factor continues to be the primary source of cybersecurity breaches, and the expansion of data access beyond corporate environments only exacerbates these threats. Nonetheless, emerging technologies are leveraging mobile devices to bolster security measures.
Barton highlights initiatives such as T-Mobile US’s Secure SIM Enabled (SSE) services, which utilize mobile devices and SIM cards for identity verification and secure connectivity. By leveraging technologies like Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), SSE, and SD-WAN over mobile connections, the feasibility of wireless technology supplanting wireline networks becomes increasingly evident.
The GSMA Open Gateway Initiative, in collaboration with network operator members across Europe and Latin America, represents a significant stride forward in mobile security. New APIs facilitate user identity confirmation based on mobile SIM cards while implementing measures to detect SIM cloning, eliminating the need for cumbersome one-time passwords. These APIs are unlocking the potential of mobile networks to enhance security and connectivity.
Although the transition from wireline to wireless will not occur overnight, advancements such as API-enabled network slicing are making wireless an attractive option, even in data-intensive scenarios like media broadcasts. As corporate network requirements continue to evolve, wireless technology becomes an increasingly appealing choice.
Barton concludes by emphasizing the rise of mobile-first generations in the workplace and the growing reliance on mobile devices in daily life. Embracing mobile devices presents numerous opportunities to boost productivity and deliver the working experience that employees desire. Verizon’s recent partnership with Vonage underscores the ongoing innovation in wireless technology and APIs, suggesting further advancements on the horizon.
