5G Standalone (SA) is very much a double-edged sword when it comes to network operations. Experts see 5G SA as, in some ways, simplifying from an operational perspective. But the addition of 5G SA to existing network topologies and infrastructures comes with challenges, workforce challenges that require broad culture changes within organizations.
“From a performance perspective, and an operational perspective, you get some simplification in how you can operate your network,” said Dean Brauer, VP of network and field operations for Verizon. “But the complication comes in because as you introduce 5G, we’re not just introducing a new frequency band … and with Standalone, you can start to slice your network.”
