Vodafone is showing off a “prototype” Mobile Private Network device that runs on a Raspberry Pi 4 computer and a Lime SDR XTRX board. The company believes that it could be a low-cost solution for businesses or individuals who want a private cellular network.

A Mobile Private Network (MPN) is exactly what it sounds like—private and portable internet based on mobile 4G or 5G connectivity. Vodafone’s prototype is basically an internet router, but it allows you to build an independent 5G network with reserved coverage. In a business environment, this is a secure and reliable alternative to Wi-Fi.

A Mobile Private Network (MPN) is a dedicated business network that allows businesses to interconnect people and things using 4G or 5G technology. While enabling new applications, MPN can also support companies’ existing business-critical services with a local network on their premises, providing a secure, reliable and available connectivity. It serves as an alternative to Wi-Fi but differs from a public mobile network by providing private reserved coverage that is subject to agreed performance (if you bought it as a service) and local, protected data flow.

The mission-critical nature of systems and applications at airports, factories, warehouses or ports demands such secure and reliable connectivity that is better served by 4G/5G than Wi-Fi. Its use cases include businesses in various industries dealing with sensor data monitoring, location and tracking, robotics, self-driving or autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), augmented reality, connected workers and more. When combined with edge computing, MPN can support immediate responses and decision-making.

See https://www.reviewgeek.com/146350/vodafone-builds-a-portable-5g-network-using-a-raspberry-pi/

#technology #MPN #networks #RaspberryPi