Description

Mobile backhaul infrastructure is critical for accommodating the exponentially increasing data traffic seen in South Africa while maintaining quality of service levels. It is also critical for retaining the ability to route the predominantly voice traffic emanating from 2G base stations. As a result of the increasing emphasis on and demand for data in the country, mobile operators have devoted increased capital expenditure to network technology and capacity upgrades. This study provides an overview of these and other developments in mobile backhaul infrastructure in South Africa in the context of increasing data usage patterns. Key industry challenges and drivers are discussed, and best practices and strategic recommendations presented.