MTN deployed a 5G Standalone core on Microsoft cloud

MTN has completed a proof of concept for a fully deployed 5G Standalone core in Microsoft Azure. It was described as a first-of-its-kind deployment.

All of the 5G Standalone key parts, including the control plane, user plane, and administration nodes, were installed wholly in the South Africa Azure Region for the proof of concept.

MTN stated that the initiative allowed it to experience the benefits of implementing a core network under Azure, such as ease of scalability and rapid deployment time, deploying in days rather than months.

MTN claims that the event prompted a paradigm shift in network planning that took into account sustainability, commercial models, automation, and disaster recovery.

“Being one of the first in the world to conduct this proof of concept demonstrates MTN’s desire to keep pushing the boundaries of technological innovation that delivers value to our shareholders,” said MTN group chief technology officer Amith Maharaj.

MTN stated that the proof of concept will serve as a springboard for further cloud innovation.

“Microsoft is equipping industry leaders with ubiquitous computing power to help them realise the potential of 5G networks,” said Tad Brockway, Microsoft CVP Azure for Operators.

“With Azure, MTN can enrich its digital capabilities and enable organisations across industries to bring modern high-performance applications to their customers faster.”