5G represents a fundamental shift in communication network architectures and will accelerate revenue generation through innovative services facilitated via 5G-enabled smartphones, tablets, laptops, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. It will provide communications service providers (CSPs) a potent combination of network capabilities and flexible network deployment options that improve their ability to deliver a differentiated, customized, and scalable wireless experience. Frost & Sullivan predicts that 5G connections in the US will increase from less than 15 million in 2020 to 350 million by 2026, achieving a penetration rate of approximately 70%. Globally, 5G connections will reach 3.5 billion by 2026.

CSPs must achieve high-fidelity, real-time visibility across all network layers (from physical to virtual) to ensure that services offered over networks meet a pre-defined service quality level for optimal subscriber experiences. The key challenges for 5G service assurance include generating visibility across 5G network infrastructure layers and domains, identifying the right data set to use when evaluating network traffic patterns, and supporting emerging frameworks such as open RAN and network slicing.

This Frost & Sullivan market insight examines the growth opportunities in the 5G service assurance market. It describes the key challenges for 5G network monitoring and discusses how NETSCOUT, a leading global provider of service assurance and security solutions, addresses key market needs.

Author: Vikrant Gandhi