Addressing Top Network Challenges of the Telecom Industry

The telecommunications industry is undergoing a transformational period as customers are expecting more reliable connectivity with more features as new technology rolls out, such as with 5G. Telecom carriers may face several network-related challenges ranging from high costs, security concerns, and downtime, however managed network service providers (MNSPs) can provide telecom companies with the guidance and support they need to succeed.

Emerging Trends in the Telecom Industry

There are several shifts within the telecom industry that are prompting changes, some of which make it difficult for carriers to remain competitive or reduce costs. Top trends within the telecommunications sector include:

• 5G adoption – 5G provides carriers with several benefits including greater transmission speeds and lower latency. While the technology is lucrative from a capabilities standpoint, its adoption will require carriers to invest in and install new hardware and technology to support it.
• Internet of Things (IoT) – IoT is becoming increasingly integrated within consumer lives, increasing the number of connected devices leveraging telecommunications networks. In response, telecom carriers will need to develop how to optimize their platform to best sustain the greater amount of device connections.
• Shifting consumer needs – Consumers are continuing to adopt cloud-based technologies with the communication capabilities they desire. Telecom carriers will need to determine how to change their offerings to best serve them, while ensuring reliable and quality connectivity.

Top Network Challenges Facing the Telecom Industry

There are several network-related challenges of the telecom industry that affect carrier infrastructure and how they can best serve their customers:

Security

Customers are increasingly expecting carriers to prioritize data security and privacy to protect their communications. With the increased personalization of their personal data security with other aspects of their lives, such as with e-mail or social media, they expect carriers to work toward making their connectivity experience as secure as possible.

As telecom carriers continue to implement new and emerging technologies, they open up new avenues for security vulnerabilities and malicious attacks. Remote working during the pandemic adds another layer of security risk as customers connect more frequently from their homes. Carriers should stay informed on what network risks any infrastructure changes can bring, as well as how to minimize the chance of expensive security breaches.

High Cost

One of the main network obstacles for carriers is the large expense of upgrading and maintaining their telecommunications infrastructure. Top drivers of increased costs for carriers include¹:

• Rapid changes in hardware and other technology – Telecom companies must plan for shorter upgrade cycles as customers demand that latest technology
• Continual scaling – As telecom networks take on larger customer bases and new network capabilities, their infrastructure must expand its capacity to handle more traffic and more network-intensive activities
• Consumer expectations – Consumers will continue to push for better mobile devices, better carrier packages, and more features, driving competitive development within the telecom industry

Coverage Outages

Telecom carriers may face the challenge of frequent outages, which hinders their ability to provide uninterrupted and quality telecommunication services. Without the proper back-up systems, outages will cause customers to lose the ability to send data properly, causing frustration and dissatisfaction. Outages are frequently caused by too many devices using the network at the same time, equipment failure and inclement weather conditions.

Overcome Telecom Challenges With A Managed Network Services Provider

In order to increase security, reduce costs, and maximize uptime, telecom carriers should consider partnering with a local MNSP. Providers have the equipment and industry expertise needed to troubleshoot and address telecom challenges. 

A local MNSP is able to evaluate a carrier’s network infrastructure and provide guidance on what optimizations could be made to increase performance and reduce operating costs. In addition, network service providers can provide proactive network maintenance and issue prevention, which can catch and resolve network-related problems before they negatively affect customers. 

SCE Carrier Solutions is a local MNSP providing telecom carriers and other organizations across Southern California with reliable, cost-effective, secure, and scalable network solutions. Leverage carrier-grade networks from SCE to improve the quality of your service, expand your coverage, and increase your competitiveness. 

Interested in addressing your network problems? Contact us today and one of our network experts will be happy to discuss options for improving your setup and answer any questions.

[1] https://denmarkbusinesssolutions.com/2019/03/26/telecom-problems-for-businesses/