CSPs and hyperscalers are increasingly aligning their strengths to push the boundaries of their operations and expand their business footprints. As a result, new end-to-end solutions are being developed to serve a diverse range of connectivity options, leveraging Mobile Private Networks, 5G, and Network Slicing.
Network slicing is a cross-domain strategy that combines resources from various domains, such as RAN, Transport, 5G Core, and NFV, to create an end-to-end slice. Enabled by cross-domain OSS automation, orchestration, and analytics generation, it helps CSPs optimize their engagement with hyperscalers. The commercialization of network slicing has already begun, with several operators across different regions implementing end-to-end network slicing management and pricing.
A uniform cloud-native approach across all CSP service domains is crucial for managing end-to-end solutions throughout the CSP realm. As the industry moves towards cloud-native standards, CSPs can further expand their reach and partner with hyperscalers for edge and hybrid cloud services.
RAN and Transport domains are also evolving, though at varying speeds and with distinct goals. The RAN domain still faces challenges with cloud-native capabilities, API openness, interface specification, and multi-vendor capability. However, initiatives such as Open RAN and vRAN are aiming to make the RAN more open and programmable. On the other hand, transport domain vendors are gradually transitioning from Physical Network Functions (PNFs) to a cloud-native, disaggregated approach.
Hyperscalers play a crucial role in helping CSPs expand their operational and business footprints. They not only enable CSPs to extend their reach and offer value-added functions but also facilitate exposure opportunities, allowing CSPs to capitalize on network slicing and new revenue prospects.
To fully harness the opportunities presented by hyperscalers, CSPs need to implement necessary changes, such as cloud-native, multi-domain business, disaggregated RAN, and the adoption of analytics and service assurance. The collaboration between CSPs, hyperscalers, and enterprises can lead to mutually beneficial solutions, serving a wide range of customers and markets.
In conclusion, partnering with hyperscalers can positively contribute to the expansion of cloud, telco, and hybrid market opportunities. However, for the partnership to be truly successful, CSPs must ensure they have the required capabilities, resources, and strategies in place to fully embrace this new era of connectivity and innovation.
