Category: Case studies

Revolutionizing Indoor Network Testing with INOS: A Deep Dive into the Enhanced Indoor Kit

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

Introduction

As mobile networks continue to evolve with 5G, ensuring optimal indoor connectivity is more critical than ever. INOS (Indoor Network Optimization Solution) is redefining how operators and engineers approach indoor testing with its advanced tools, robust features, and a newly upgraded Indoor Kit. Designed to tackle the unique challenges of indoor environments, the INOS Indoor Kit offers significant improvements in software, hardware, and overall functionality to deliver superior usability, reliability, and results.

The Importance of Indoor Testing

Indoor spaces like malls, airports, and office buildings pose unique challenges for network optimization due to:

  • Architectural complexity: Thick walls and multiple floors impede signal propagation.
  • User density: Crowded environments generate high network demand.
  • Interference: Co-channel interference can degrade signal quality.

These challenges make precise and efficient indoor network testing crucial for delivering seamless connectivity.

Enhancements in the INOS Indoor Kit

Software Improvements (Icons)

  1. Revamped User Interface (UI):
    The new UI offers an intuitive design for enhanced accessibility, streamlining control, and monitoring processes for users.
  2. Enhanced Connectivity Options:
    Supporting Internet, WLAN, and Bluetooth connections, the kit provides robust and flexible inter-device connectivity.
  3. Comprehensive Control Capabilities:
    The tablet serves as a central hub, allowing users to control every connected device and monitor KPIs directly.
  4. Centralized Alarm Notifications:
    Alarm notifications from all connected devices are displayed on the tablet in real-time, enabling prompt troubleshooting.

Hardware Upgrades

  1. Ergonomic and Lightweight Design:
    A portable, lighter design ensures ease of use in various indoor scenarios.
  2. Extended Battery Life:
    Powering up to 12 devices for 8 hours of continuous operation, the kit supports long-duration tasks without frequent recharging.
  3. Smart Cooling System:
    An intelligent cooling mechanism activates based on system temperature, ensuring consistent performance without overheating.

Key Features and Differentiators

The INOS Indoor Kit offers several standout features that set it apart from competitors:

  1. 5G Support Across All Devices:
    Fully optimized for 5G testing, supporting all devices within the kit to handle the latest network demands.
  2. Tablet as a Centralized Display:
    Displays real-time radio KPIs, with intuitive visualizations and insights for quick decision-making.
  3. Advanced Device Management via Tablet:
    • Control multiple phones directly.
    • Color-coded indicators highlight synced devices, poor KPIs, and ongoing logfile recordings, allowing users to focus on critical areas.
  4. Support for Large Layout Images:
    Unlike competitors, INOS excels at handling and displaying large indoor layouts, ensuring no testing area is overlooked.
  5. Automated Processes:
    • Logfile Uploading and Collection: Eliminates manual intervention, saving time and effort.
    • Post-Processing Automation: Simplifies report generation and routine tasks that traditionally require manual copy-paste workflows.
  6. Comprehensive Support Model:
    INOS provides end-to-end support for all product aspects, ensuring users have the help they need at every stage.
  7. Expandable Kit Design:
    Offers the flexibility to add more devices, making it adaptable to different indoor testing scales.
  8. Enhanced Connectivity:
    INOS leverages Internet, WLAN, and Bluetooth for device control, overcoming the limitations of competitors who rely solely on Bluetooth (limited to 8 devices and prone to connectivity issues).

Why INOS Stands Out in Indoor Testing

INOS combines cutting-edge technology with user-centric design to deliver a superior indoor testing experience. With its latest enhancements, it ensures that telecom operators and network engineers have the tools they need to achieve:

  •  Unmatched Accuracy: Collect and analyze data with precision.
  • Greater Efficiency: Streamlined workflows and automation save time and effort.
  • Enhanced Portability: Lightweight design and extended battery life make it perfect for demanding indoor environments.

Conclusion

The INOS Indoor Kit, with its latest software and hardware upgrades, is a game-changer for indoor network optimization. By focusing on usability, functionality, and reliability, it empowers operators to tackle even the most challenging scenarios with confidence.

Ready to elevate your indoor testing? Discover how the enhanced INOS Indoor Kit can revolutionize your network optimization strategy.

This blog post was written by Amr Ashraf, Product Architect and Support Director at Digis Squared. With extensive experience in telecom solutions and AI-driven technologies, Amr plays a key role in developing and optimizing our innovative products to enhance network performance and operational efficiency.

Why Service Providers Should Go Vendor-Agnostic?

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

Being a vendor-agnostic managed services provider (MSP) offers several strategic advantages, particularly in today’s diverse and rapidly changing technology landscape. Here are some key benefits:

1. Flexibility and Customization for Clients

  • Tailored Solutions: Vendor-agnostic MSPs aren’t bound to specific hardware or software brands, allowing them to provide tailored solutions that best meet each client’s unique needs.
  • Seamless Integration: This approach allows MSPs to integrate diverse technologies, which is especially beneficial for clients with existing systems from various vendors. It ensures compatibility across different platforms and systems.

2. Improved Trust and Objectivity

  • Unbiased Recommendations: Without vendor affiliations, MSPs can provide impartial advice focused solely on the client’s business goals rather than pushing products from specific vendors.
  • Enhanced Credibility: Clients often see vendor-agnostic MSPs as more credible partners, as they know recommendations are based purely on quality and suitability, not vendor relationships.

3. Access to Best-of-Breed Technology

  • Greater Variety of Options: Vendor-agnostic MSPs have access to a broad spectrum of technologies, enabling them to choose the best-in-class products for any given solution.
  • Rapid Adaptation to Industry Trends: They can quickly adopt new and emerging technologies, providing clients with up-to-date solutions without being locked into a single vendor’s product lifecycle.

4. Reduced Vendor Lock-In Risks

  • Enhanced Flexibility for Clients: By working with a vendor-agnostic MSP, clients avoid becoming dependent on a single vendor, which reduces risks associated with vendor-specific limitations, such as pricing changes or service discontinuation.
  • Easier Transition and Upgrades: Clients can transition to new technology or upgrade their systems without having to overhaul their entire infrastructure, preserving both continuity and cost efficiency.

5. Broader Industry Knowledge and Expertise

  • Cross-Vendor Knowledge: A vendor-agnostic MSP is typically skilled in managing and troubleshooting a wide range of technologies, offering clients a broader knowledge base and deeper expertise.
  • Continuous Skill Development: MSPs that work with multiple vendors stay current across different technologies, tools, and standards, ensuring that they bring industry-wide best practices to each engagement.

6. Enhanced Scalability and Future-Proofing

  • Adaptable Scaling Options: Vendor-agnostic MSPs can scale services up or down, choosing the most effective tools and vendors for each stage of growth, enabling clients to expand or streamline without limits.
  • Future-Proof Solutions: Without a commitment to specific vendors, MSPs can more readily integrate cutting-edge technologies as they emerge, helping clients future-proof their operations and remain competitive.

7. Cost Savings for Clients

  • Optimized Pricing Structures: Vendor-agnostic MSPs can select the most cost-effective solutions for each situation, maximizing value without unnecessary expenses tied to specific vendor pricing models.
  • Elimination of Unnecessary Licensing Fees: By evaluating multiple vendor options, they can choose solutions that reduce or eliminate redundant licensing costs, allowing clients to optimize their budgets.

8. Enhanced Service Continuity and Reliability

  • Improved Vendor Alternatives: In case of vendor issues or service interruptions, vendor-agnostic MSPs can provide alternative solutions more easily, maintaining continuity without significant disruption.
  • Better Risk Mitigation: By using multiple vendor solutions, MSPs can create redundancies and implement failover options, reducing the impact of any single vendor failure.

Summary

A vendor-agnostic MSP can offer unbiased, flexible, and future-proof solutions, giving clients greater control over their technology stack while maximizing cost-efficiency and operational resilience. This approach builds trust, meets diverse client needs, and provides a competitive edge by adapting to market changes and emerging technology with agility.

Author: Ahmed Zein, Digis Squared’s COO, and expert in Managed Services excellence and Operations.

INOS VMOS Assessment Tool: Redefining Video Quality Assessment for OTT Video

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

The INOS Video Mean Opinion Score (VMOS) Assessment Tool represents a groundbreaking advancement in evaluating both User Quality-of-Experience (QoE) and Network Quality of Service (QoS) for adaptive video streaming on Facebook. By seamlessly merging these critical aspects, the tool delivers unparalleled benchmarking and optimization capabilities. Built upon an innovative architecture, it integrates high-performance analysis with a user-centric design, ensuring top-notch video quality evaluation across various platforms. Specifically designed for mobile phone testing, the VMOS Assessment Tool integrates seamlessly from the client side, making it ideal for efficient evaluation of mobile video performance.

Features:

Real-Time Analysis at Unprecedented Speed: Experience instantaneous, precise assessments with our tool’s advanced algorithms, ensuring rapid feedback and swift resolution of performance issues.

Enhanced QoE with ITU-T P.1204.3 Compliance: Aligned with the latest ITU-T P.1204.3 standards, the VMOS Assessment Tool offers refined evaluations that adhere to the most current benchmarks for perceptual video quality.

High-Quality Database Integration: Support for up to 8K resolution and 60 frames per second ensures comprehensive analysis of high-definition video content, enabling optimal performance and clarity.

Network QoS Optimization: Improve video playback with our tool’s focus on optimizing start-delay and buffering frequency, leading to smoother viewing experiences.

Integrated QoE and QoS Evaluation: The VMOS Assessment Tool seamlessly combines QoE and QoS metrics, providing a holistic analysis that ensures both user experience and network performance are optimized for superior video quality.

Flexible Device Compatibility and Viewing Distance: The VMOS Assessment Tool is designed to adapt to different streaming device dimensions, including PC, laptop, and mobile phone, and various viewing distances, ensuring optimal video quality regardless of the device or viewing conditions.

Seamless Platform Integration: Designed for effortless compatibility, the VMOS Assessment Tool integrates smoothly with existing video platforms, ensuring a hassle-free transition and minimal operational disruption.

Zero Client-Side Integration Required: The VMOS Assessment Tool manages the entire process, from video playback and network statistics recording to the final MOS score assessment, eliminating the need for any client-side integration.

Architecture Overview:

The INOS VMOS Assessment Tool encompasses multiple stages. Initially, it interacts with the video platform to obtain various encoded files, which are transmitted to the user network based on bandwidth availability. Subsequently, in the packet capturing phase, network packets are recorded into a PCAP file, along with the corresponding SSL decryption log key. During the packets processing phase, network packets are filtered to isolate only those related to video playback and player events. The final stage involves predicting the VMOS score by integrating video playback quality fluctuations, which reflect user QoS, with player events, which indicate network QoS.

INOS Facebook VQA Output Sample:

These output samples are derived from our Facebook quality testing on a mobile network operator in the United Kingdom. The results display a range of evaluation metrics utilized for the final VMOS assessment. Each performance metric is accompanied by geospatial testing locations on the map, time-domain values, and histogram values. The performance metrics will be discussed in the following points:

  1. Facebook Streaming Success:

This metric measures the success rate of logging into Facebook and streaming the video.

  • Facebook Streaming Start Delay:

This metric measures the time interval between the initiation of video loading and the commencement of video playback.

  • Facebook Streaming Buffer VMOS: 

This metric assesses the Network QoS VMOS, estimated from platform player events such as start delay, rebuffering event frequency, and rebuffering event duration relative to the original video duration.

  • Facebook Streaming Resolution per Second: 

This metric indicates the video playback resolutions per second, highlighting that Facebook frequently reduces the resolution to 540 pixels for mobile users.

This metric reflects the quality VMOS of video playback per second as a result of video quality fluctuations.

  • Facebook Streaming Quality VMOS:

This metric assesses the User QoE VMOS, indicating the Quality VMOS for the entire playback sequence, calculated from the Quality VMOS per second.

  • Facebook Streaming Final VMOS:

This metric represents the final VMOS score by merging both Network QoS and User QoE into a single score that encapsulates the overall experience.

INOS Tool Summary:

  • The INOS VMOS Assessment Tool is a Comprehensive Video Quality Evaluation tool for adaptive video streaming on Facebook, ensuring optimized user experience and network performance.
  • The Tool Features Innovative System Architecture by processing stages from obtaining encoded files, capturing and filtering network packets, to predicting the VMOS score.
  • The Tool Offers Advanced Real-Time Analysis with instantaneous, precise assessments and support for high-definition video content up to 8K resolution and 60 frames per second.
  • The Tool Provides Seamless Client-Side Integration for Mobile Testing, requiring no client-side integration and adapting to various device dimensions and viewing distances for efficient evaluation of mobile video performance.
  • The Tool Produces Detailed Output Samples for Comprehensive Evaluation.
  • The Tool Ensures Compatibility with Other Video Platforms, including YouTube, Shahid, TikTok, and Instagram.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Obeidallah Ali, our R&D Director at Digis Squared, for his invaluable contribution to this white paper. His expertise and insights have been instrumental in shaping this content and ensuring its relevance!

Is the Customer Always Right?

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

Understanding the Dynamics Between System Integrators, Vendors, and Customers

The age-old adage, “The customer is always right,” has been a guiding principle in the world of business for decades. However, when it comes to the complex realm of system integration and vendor interactions, this notion may not always hold true. In this article, we delve into the delicate balance of power and decision-making between system integrators, vendors, and customers, and explore when it may be necessary to say no to a customer’s requests.

The Customer’s Perspective

Customers play a vital role in the success of any business endeavor. Their needs, requirements, and feedback shape the products and services offered by vendors and system integrators. Customers often come with specific expectations and demands, driven by their unique goals and priorities. The customer-centric approach emphasizes the importance of listening to the customer, understanding their requirements, and delivering solutions that meet or exceed their expectations.

The Role of System Integrators and Vendors

System integrators and vendors serve as the bridge between customers and technology solutions. They possess specialized knowledge, expertise, and resources to design, implement, and support complex systems and solutions. While their primary goal is to satisfy customer needs, system integrators and vendors also have a responsibility to deliver high-quality, reliable products and services that align with industry standards and best practices.

Saying No: When Should System Integrators and Vendors Push Back?

Despite the emphasis on customer satisfaction, there are instances where it may be necessary for system integrators and vendors to say no to a customer’s requests. Some common scenarios include:

  • 1. Technical Feasibility: If a customer requests a solution that is technically infeasible or goes against industry standards, system integrators and vendors may need to push back and propose alternative approaches.
  • 2. Scope Creep: Customers may often expand the scope of a project without considering the potential impact on timelines, resources, and budgets. In such cases, system integrators and vendors may need to set clear boundaries and manage customer expectations.
  • 3. Security and Compliance: In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity and data privacy are top priorities. If a customer’s request poses security risks or non-compliance with regulations, system integrators, and vendors must prioritize safeguarding sensitive information.
  • 4. Resource Constraints: Customers may demand quick turnaround times or customized solutions that strain resources and impact the quality of deliverables. System integrators and vendors may need to communicate effectively with customers to manage expectations and maintain service standards.

Resolving the Dilemma: Strategies for Effective Communication and Collaboration

To navigate the challenges of balancing customer demands with technical limitations and industry standards, system integrators and vendors can adopt the following strategies:

  • 1. Open Communication: Establishing clear channels of communication with customers is crucial. System integrators and vendors should actively listen to customer requirements, provide transparent feedback, and collaborate on finding mutually beneficial solutions.
  • 2. Educating Customers: System integrators and vendors can educate customers on best practices, emerging technologies, and industry trends. By sharing expertise and insights, customers can make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals.
  • 3. Setting Expectations: From the inception of a project, setting clear expectations regarding timelines, deliverables, and potential challenges is essential. System integrators and vendors should communicate proactively to avoid misunderstandings and scope creep.
  • 4. Collaborative Problem-Solving: When faced with conflicting priorities or technical constraints, system integrators, vendors, and customers can engage in collaborative problem-solving. By brainstorming alternatives and exploring different approaches, a consensus can be reached that satisfies all stakeholders.

In Conclusion

While the customer’s needs and preferences are paramount in the world of system integration and vendor relationships, there are situations where saying no is necessary to uphold standards, ensure security, and deliver value. By fostering open communication, educating customers, setting clear expectations, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving, system integrators and vendors can navigate this delicate balance effectively. Ultimately, the key lies in fostering a relationship built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to success.

The Role of Cloud Hyperscalers in the Telecom Industry: Balancing Opportunities and Challenges

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

Cloud hyperscalers, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP), have revolutionized various industries, including telecommunications. Their entry into the telecom sector has introduced a wave of innovation, efficiency, and scalability, but it has also brought challenges. This article explores the positive and negative impacts of cloud hyperscalers on the telecom industry.

Positive Impacts

1. Enhanced Scalability and Flexibility

Cloud hyperscalers offer telecom companies unparalleled scalability and flexibility. Traditional telecom infrastructure often involves significant capital expenditure and time-consuming upgrades. Hyperscalers provide on-demand resources that can be scaled up or down based on traffic and user demand, allowing telecom operators to manage their resources more efficiently and cost-effectively.

2. Accelerated Innovation

Hyperscalers have accelerated innovation within the telecom industry. With access to advanced cloud services such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics, telecom operators can develop new services and applications rapidly. These technologies enable more efficient network management, improved customer experiences, and the creation of new revenue streams through innovative offerings like smart cities and IoT services.

3. Cost Efficiency

One of the most significant benefits is the reduction in operational costs. By leveraging the economies of scale provided by hyperscalers, telecom companies can reduce the cost of maintaining and upgrading their own data centers. This shift from CapEx to OpEx allows for more predictable budgeting and financial planning.

4. Enhanced Security and Compliance

Leading cloud hyperscalers invest heavily in security and compliance, often exceeding what individual telecom operators can achieve. This investment translates into robust security measures, regular updates, and compliance with global standards, thereby enhancing the overall security posture of telecom networks and protecting sensitive customer data.

5. Global Reach and Reliability

Hyperscalers offer a global infrastructure that ensures high availability and reliability. Telecom operators can leverage this global network to offer consistent and high-quality services to customers, irrespective of their geographical location. This capability is particularly beneficial for multinational telecom companies seeking to provide seamless cross-border services.

Negative Impacts

1. Dependency and Loss of Control

One of the major downsides is the dependency on third-party providers. Relying on hyperscalers means telecom operators may lose some control over their infrastructure and data. Any service disruption or policy change by the hyperscaler can directly impact the telecom company’s operations and customer service.

2. Increased Competition

Cloud hyperscalers have started to offer their own telecom services, such as communication platforms and networking solutions. This move has introduced a new level of competition for traditional telecom operators, who now have to compete not only with other telecom companies but also with these tech giants.

3. Regulatory and Compliance Challenges

Operating in highly regulated environments, telecom companies must ensure that their use of cloud services complies with local regulations. Data sovereignty and compliance can become complex when using global cloud providers, requiring careful navigation of regulatory landscapes to avoid legal pitfalls.

4. Job Displacement

The shift towards automation and cloud-based services can lead to job displacement within the telecom industry. As more processes become automated and managed through cloud services, the need for traditional telecom roles may decrease, potentially leading to workforce reductions and the need for reskilling.

5. Security Concerns

While hyperscalers invest heavily in security, the centralization of data and services in the cloud can present attractive targets for cyber-attacks. Any security breach at a hyperscaler can have widespread implications, affecting multiple telecom operators and their customers.

Conclusion

Cloud hyperscalers have undoubtedly transformed the telecom industry, offering significant benefits in terms of scalability, innovation, and cost efficiency. However, these advantages come with challenges, including dependency, increased competition, regulatory hurdles, job displacement, and security concerns. As the telecom industry continues to evolve, operators must strategically navigate these impacts, balancing the opportunities provided by hyperscalers with the need to maintain control, ensure compliance, and protect their workforce.

The Case for Open RAN and Open Networks

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

Advocates of Open RAN (Radio Access Networks) and open networks champion their potential to revolutionize the telecommunications industry by promoting flexibility, innovation, and cost-effectiveness.

Open RAN refers to a disaggregated approach to building wireless networks, using open and interoperable interfaces. This model allows operators to mix and match components from different vendors rather than being locked into a single supplier, fostering a competitive ecosystem.

Proponents argue that this could lead to significant cost reductions, especially in deploying 5G networks, as it drives down hardware costs and encourages innovation through increased competition. Additionally, open networks enable greater adaptability, allowing network operators to quickly implement new technologies and services, which is crucial in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Moreover, open networks are seen as a critical step toward enhancing network security and resilience. By diversifying the supplier base, operators can reduce dependency on any single vendor, mitigating risks associated with vendor-specific vulnerabilities and supply chain disruptions. The interoperability inherent in open RAN can also facilitate more robust security practices, as operators can integrate best-of-breed security solutions from various vendors.

This flexibility is particularly important given the rising concerns over cyber threats and the geopolitical complexities affecting the telecom supply chain. Consequently, many industry experts and regulators view open RAN and open networks as a pathway to not only technological advancement but also national security and economic resilience.

**The Legacy of Proprietary Telecom Networks**

On the other hand, supporters of legacy proprietary telecom networks argue that these systems offer unmatched reliability, performance, and security that have been refined over decades. Traditional telecom networks, built on established partnerships with trusted vendors, provide end-to-end solutions with tightly integrated hardware and software, ensuring optimal performance and stability. This integration is particularly vital for critical communications infrastructure, where any downtime or performance issues can have significant repercussions. Legacy systems also benefit from rigorous testing and certification processes, which help to maintain high standards of quality and reliability that are crucial for maintaining consumer trust and ensuring uninterrupted service.

Furthermore, critics of open RAN and open networks caution against the potential downsides of moving away from established proprietary systems. The complexity of managing and integrating multiple vendors’ components could lead to interoperability challenges and increased operational overhead. There is also the risk that the rapid pace of innovation in an open ecosystem could outstrip the ability of operators to thoroughly vet and secure new technologies, potentially introducing vulnerabilities. Additionally, the transition to open RAN may require substantial upfront investments in new infrastructure and training, posing significant barriers for smaller operators and developing regions. As such, proponents of legacy networks argue that the proven track record of proprietary systems offers a safer and more reliable path forward, particularly in contexts where stability and security are paramount.

PS Core Configuration Audit Use Case: 4G Quality of Service (QoS) Scheme

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

Problem

  • Referring to QCI counters and captured traces, all subscribers have QCI 7, which is NOT designed for normal data traffic and TCP-based applications, due to its nature specifications and high bit error rate.
  • The QCI values 1–4 are allocated for traffic that requires dedicated resource allocation for a GBR, while values 5–9 are not associated with GBR requirements.

Actions

  • Reviewing all QCI-8 RF parameters on 4G Cells.
  • A New Profile has been created on HSS with QCI=8 and assigned to test SIMs on it for testing and evaluation
  • AFC SL management staff SIMs were provisioned with QCI-8 for evaluation

Results

  • The recommended action was implemented for test SIMs. Core traces has been validated that the
  • subscriber’s actual QCI is QCI 8 (from MME Attach Accept Message sent to UE)
Before
After

Drive test was conducted before and after the change on two different sites to benchmark trial in terms of the LTE downlink throughput which had around 10% increase after the trial for the test SIMs.

Event Assurance Use Case

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

As a part of preparation activities for event assurance in a touristic region with extremely high demand and annual traffic growth, band strategy was reviewed to address the best allocation for each technology to achieve the best out of the existing band. Following this review, it was recommended to have new spectrum strategy

Pre-launching Activities

  1. Capacity assessment and utilization studies
  2. Hardware readiness study for 2nd U900 carrier addition
  3. Re-farming for 5MHz of the GSM900 band
  4. 2nd U900 cells activation

Post-launching Activities

  • Benchmark drive tests
    • 3G/4G camping and mobility strategy adjustment including interoperability settings

Results

  • Most of KPIs enhanced across all technologies 2G/3G/4G, especially 3G/4G throughput

Voice Communication Innovations in the 5G Era

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

5G technology promises blazing-fast data speeds and brings revolutionary enhancements to voice communication. In the realm of 5G, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) serves as a cornerstone, enabling high-quality voice calls over LTE networks.

However, as the transition to standalone 5G advances, the landscape for voice options expands, introducing innovative ways to manage voice traffic.

Handling Voice in 5G NSA deployment 

In the initial stages of deploying 5G, Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture integrates 5G technology with existing LTE infrastructure. NSA 5G relies on VoLTE for voice services as the primary option, ensuring a smooth transition from 4G to 5G. This configuration maintains voice continuity and quality, utilizing the robustness of VoLTE even in the early phases of 5G deployment.

If VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is unavailable, especially in areas with limited or absent LTE coverage or for other reasons, the network activates traditional circuit-switched fallback mechanisms. In the absence of VoLTE, the network reverts to legacy 2G or 3G technologies for voice calls, resulting in a negative impact on data services and degradation in voice quality.

As 5G deployment advances, network coverage and support for VoLTE are anticipated to increase. This growth aims to minimize situations where VoLTE is unavailable, ultimately improving the quality and reliability of voice calls.

In essence, VoLTE provides superior voice quality and supports simultaneous voice and data sessions over LTE & 5G NSA. However, the absence of VoLTE support prompts a fallback to older 2G/3G networks for voice calls, ensuring continuous voice communication but potentially compromising quality and data performance. As telecom infrastructure evolves, prioritizing the expansion of VoLTE coverage remains crucial to delivering enhanced voice services across broader areas.

Figure 1: Voice Options in 5G

Handling Voice in 5G SA deployment 


As the industry transitions to Standalone (SA) 5G networks, Voice over New Radio (VoNR) emerges as the dedicated voice solution for standalone architecture. VoNR, a significant evolution from VoLTE, is optimized specifically for 5G networks, offering superior voice quality, lower latency, and enhanced support for new features enabled by 5G technology.

The transition from VoLTE to VoNR in SA 5G networks will occur gradually, allowing for a coexistence period where both technologies jointly handle voice services. This hybrid approach ensures backward compatibility and smooth migration, maintaining the integrity of voice services while capitalizing on the enhanced capabilities of VoNR.

In cases where 5G coverage is lacking or weak, alternative solutions may be needed to handle voice services despite the presence of VoNR.

To prevent bad call quality or call drops, especially for UEs making Voice over New Radio (VoNR) calls from the 5G cell edge, the UE is directed during the voice call setup towards the 5G core network (5GC). This forces a switch to an LTE/EPS connection where the radio conditions are better for the voice service, a procedure known as “EPS Fallback,” defined by 3GPP. This process also occurs when the UE is served by a 5G cell not configured or optimized for VoNR calls or when the UE lacks necessary VoNR capabilities.

Actually, we have 2 options to implement EPS fallback could be described as below

  1. In 5G release with redirection to LTE (Option A), the 5G radio connection is released after setup and redirected to LTE. Following the 5G RRC Release, the UE is instructed to reselect a 4G cell, initiating a new radio connection for the VoLTE call. During this process, the UE context is transferred from the AMF to the MME over the N26 interface.
  2. In 5G-4G Inter-RAT Handover (Option B), signaling and traffic are tunneled between SMF/UPF and MME/SGW.
Figure 2: EPS fallback options

SRVCC (Single Radio Voice Connection Continuity) is a feature in mobile networks ensuring seamless transitions between different technologies during voice calls, facilitating handover from LTE (4G) or NR (5G) to legacy 2G or 3G networks when moving out of coverage.

Both VoLTE and VoNR require an IMS system. Establishing a solid, robust, and well-tested IMS network is a challenging task, demanding considerable effort and continuous improvement.

 For more information about Digis Squared VoLTE and IMS Services please check out the Managed Services page.

Non-Terrestrial-Networks (NTN) and telecom vision

Posted on by Mira Abdulrahman

The emergence of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites marks a significant advancement in the realm of non-terrestrial networks, particularly in their integration with mobile devices. LEO satellites operate closer to Earth, reducing latency and enabling faster data transmission. Their use in providing global internet coverage directly to mobile devices heralds a new era in connectivity.

With companies like SpaceX, OneWeb, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper launching constellations of LEO satellites, mobile devices stand to benefit from expanded coverage and improved bandwidth.

The prospect of integrating LEO band support into mobile devices opens doors for seamless, high-speed internet access, revolutionizing how individuals experience connectivity on the go.

As LEO satellite constellations become more established, the integration of their capabilities into mobile technology could redefine the standards for mobile connectivity, promising faster, more reliable access for users worldwide.

But now the question is “are Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) a threat or an opportunity for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and the telecom industry?”

Examining this question uncovers various facets of this emerging technology.

Challenges that will Face MNOs with NTN growth:

  • Competition: NTN, like satellite networks or high-altitude balloons, competes with MNOs by offering connectivity in areas where traditional networks struggle to reach.
  • Infrastructure Costs: Adapting or investing in new infrastructure to match NTN capabilities can be financially burdensome for MNOs.
  • Regulatory Hurdles: Integrating non-terrestrial technologies involves navigating complex regulations, potentially delaying adoption for MNOs.

Opportunities brought to MNOs by NTN:

  • Enhanced Coverage: Collaborating with NTN providers enables MNOs to extend their services to remote areas, expanding their offerings.
  • Improved Resilience: Non-terrestrial networks offer backup options, increasing network reliability, especially in disaster-prone regions.
  • Global Expansion: NTN allows MNOs to tap into new markets and customer bases, widening their reach.

NTN impact on the industry overall:

  • Connectivity Access: NTN fills coverage gaps, fostering digital inclusion and accessibility.
  • Technological Progress: The integration of NTN drives telecom innovation, pushing connectivity boundaries.
  • Market Dynamics: NTN’s presence encourages competitive pricing and innovation, benefiting consumers.
Figure 1: Non-Terrestrial network examples

In summary, Non-Terrestrial Networks pose both challenges and opportunities for MNOs and the industry. Strategic adaptation and collaboration within this evolving network landscape will determine the outcome.

Now, exploring the limitations of NTN:

  • Coverage Constraints: NTN technologies have limitations in serving densely populated or geographically challenging areas.
  • Latency Issues: Satellite-based systems suffer from delays, impacting real-time applications.
  • High Costs: Deployment and maintenance expenses lead to less affordability, especially in developing regions.
  • Spectrum Management Challenges: Multiple systems operating in similar frequencies can cause interference.
  • Chipset Readiness: Despite the numerous claims made by chipset vendors regarding their support for LEO bands, the reality remains that only a handful of mobile devices currently possess the necessary reception capabilities to utilize these bands effectively.
  • Weather Dependence: Weather conditions affect certain NTN systems, causing service disruptions.
  • Capacity Limits: Constraints on simultaneous users and bandwidth affect service quality during peak times.
  • Security Vulnerabilities: Cybersecurity threats and data transmission security are critical concerns.
  • Reliability Challenges: Maintaining reliability, especially in space, faces technical and environmental hurdles.

In conclusion, while NTN offers global connectivity and remote access advantages, addressing these limitations is crucial for its viability in telecom.

NTN Applications across Industries:

  • Satellite Internet: Connects remote areas lacking terrestrial internet access.
  • Disaster Management: Vital in coordinating rescue efforts during crises.
  • Agriculture: Provides real-time data for precision farming.
  • Maritime and Aviation: Ensures continuous connectivity during travel.
  • IoT Connectivity: Supports remote IoT device connections.
  • Energy and Environmental Monitoring: Aids in monitoring remote facilities and environmental research.
  • Education and Rural Connectivity: Bridges the digital divide in remote education.
  • Industries like Mining, Oil & Gas, Tourism, and Defense: Facilitates communication and operations in remote locations.
Figure 2: Non-Terrestrial network Use Cases

These diverse use cases showcase how NTN technologies address connectivity challenges, improving safety, efficiency, and quality of life, becoming an extension of terrestrial connections.