A Non-Public Network (NPN) is a network architecture designed for the exclusive use by a specific entity, such as a business, government agency, or institution. NPNs are private, offering dedicated infrastructure and services tailored to the specific needs of the organization they serve, providing enhanced security, reliability, and control within the 5G landscape.
Key Characteristics of NPNs:
- Security: Offers enhanced security features suitable for sensitive or critical applications, safeguarding against external threats and unauthorized access.
- Control: Allows organizations greater control over their network infrastructure, including service deployment and resource allocation.
- Performance: Ensures consistent and high-quality network performance with dedicated resources, crucial for high reliability, low latency, or high bandwidth applications.
- Customization: Can be extensively customized to meet the specific needs of an organization, supporting a wide range of use cases.
Types of NPNs:
- Standalone NPNs: Operate independently with their own dedicated core and access networks, fully private and designed to serve the exclusive needs of an organization.
- Public Network Integrated NPNs: Dedicated to a single entity but leverage resources or services from a public network, offering a blend of privacy and integration with wider network services.
Applications and Use Cases:
NPNs are relevant in scenarios where network performance, security, and control are paramount, including:
- Manufacturing and Industrial Automation: For precise, reliable, and low latency control of machinery and processes.
- Critical Infrastructure: Such as utilities and transportation, where network reliability and security are crucial.
- Healthcare: Supporting telemedicine and patient data management with high security and reliable connectivity.
- Smart Campuses and Corporate Networks: Providing secure, high-speed connectivity tailored to educational or corporate environments.
NPNs represent a pivotal element in leveraging 5G technologies for private, high-performance network solutions across various industries and sectors.