Why Wireless LAN Should No Longer Mean Just Wi-Fi

You’re probably used to leaning on Wi-Fi as the backbone of your organization’s wireless network. After all, Wi-Fi 7 is already available and promises unprecedented Wi-Fi speeds. However, with 5G deployments expanding nationwide, your wireless local area network (WLAN) has options and doesn’t need to depend solely on a Wi-Fi connection.

Unfortunately, Wi-Fi falls short in areas critical to business success, such as expanded network coverage and network security. Alternatively, if organizations deploy private cellular networks (PCNs), they'll soon see PCNs as the perfect partner for Wi-Fi – or, in some instances, the first connectivity option where Wi-Fi won't cut it. This will create the resilient network architecture every business needs. 

Stepping in where Wi-Fi can’t 

First, let’s be clear. This isn't a completely anti-Wi-Fi article. There are multiple use cases where Wi-Fi meets an organization's connectivity requirements, such as providing customers or employees with high-speed internet access or enabling solid connectivity in limited spaces.

However, the issues arise while increasing the network's scale and mobility. With the proliferation of IoT devices, AI implementation, and hybrid work, today's enterprises need an unprecedented combination of reliability and scalability in their networks. 

To become reliable over large areas, Wi-Fi solutions often need many access points for mobile devices or IoT devices to have constant connectivity. Consider that Wi-Fi needs 12 access points to cover the same area as one cellular access point. 

Along with providing a strong, consistent wireless connection over greater distances, cellular technology also strengthens an organization's security posture. For a device to connect to a private cellular network (PCN), the central network management system must first provide it with SIM-based authorization. That adds an additional layer of security, which prevents unauthorized devices from gaining access. 

PCN and Wi-Fi across industries 

The PCN-Wi-Fi combination has already proved its effectiveness across multiple industries, such as warehousing and logistics. Many warehouses adhere to Industry 4.0 standards to streamline daily operations. These standards require each warehouse and supplementary outdoor storage yard to use mobile and IoT devices, including handheld scanners, tablets, and network-connected vehicles. Organizations also implement autonomous robots to streamline warehouse processes. 

Each connected device or piece of machinery must be able to share real-time data. Therefore, as employees conduct everyday tasks like scanning packages or performing diagnostic checks on warehouse machinery, each scanner must remain connected to an access point. If the warehouse only uses Wi-Fi, it risks lost connectivity — even if there are dozens of Wi-Fi access points. Metal shelves and walls, which exist throughout any warehouse, are notorious for interfering with Wi-Fi signals. A PCN doesn't suffer from these interference issues. 

Manufacturing also presents a relevant use case for private cellular networks. As manufacturing factories create the many items we use today, they, too, rely on a combination of automation, IoT devices, and connected machinery that can't afford a delay in data sharing. Manufacturing plants today are also leveraging PCNs for their security benefits. According to an Endeavor Business Intelligence and IndustryWeek survey, 30% of respondents cited “improved security” as an advantage of leveraging a private cellular network.

Private networks are also beneficial in healthcare and emergency services. In hospitals, IT personnel can deploy dedicated private networks separate from the general Wi-Fi network, freeing up Wi-Fi bandwidth. Moreover, PCNs allow hospital decision makers to prioritize certain data or communications. For example, the PCN could be used to stream patient test results — such as x-rays — so doctors can discuss those results as soon as possible with no interruption. This translates to faster times to patient diagnosis and subsequent patient care.

Private networks affecting business change

There are already examples of enterprises leaning into private networks to power certain operations. Recently, Toyota Material Handling — a North American leader in material handling products and solutions, including forklifts — experienced network challenges at their Columbus, Indiana campus. As workers moved between Wi-Fi access points, RF scanners necessary for tracking parts through and out of the warehouse were periodically losing connection due to Wi-Fi dead zones. This not only interrupted workflows but also occasionally frustrated employees. 

To rectify the situation, Toyota Material Handling replaced Wi-Fi access points with a PCN and has experienced more consistent network uptime ever since. “Industry 4.0 strategies require scalability and flexibility to address diverse needs,” said Ed Walton, CEO of Ericsson channel partner STEP. “With the deployment of Private 5G, Toyota Material Handling can increase operational efficiencies and secure data on-site while addressing diverse user needs and driving real business outcomes."

PCNs are also having an impact in major sports leagues. After a test run with private 5G in a few NFL stadiums during the 2022-2023 season, the NFL leveraged PCNs in the 2023-2024 season. Each PCN improves communications among coaches on the sidelines and in the coaches’ boxes high above the fields. Those interactions are critical to their ability to make real-time, in-game adjustments. 

The growing effect of private networks

Telecom-based analytics firm Analysys Mason projects enterprises will spend $9 billion on private cellular networks (PCNs) by 2028. This projection suggests more organizations will realize the flexibility, scalability, and network security that private cellular networks provide. However, it shouldn’t compel organizations to abandon Wi-Fi. To bring Wi-Fi — and your overall network — to its full potential, it’s time for organizations to realize where Wi-Fi isn’t the best option and pair it with a comprehensive private cellular solution.