5G Operational Readiness: Engaging the Network Exposure Function in 5G Standalone Environments

This IDC Market Perspective explains the level of customer value that can be achieved by enabling the 5G SA NEF. It also notes some of the new operations and monetization requirements that the NEF brings to bear, which are exacerbated by the soon-to-be launched NEF-enabled network slicing. Communications SP NaaS enables an innovative way for establishing a new generation of network-embedded services tied not just to speed, data delivery capability, and low-latency responsiveness but also to services involving network operations data, network traffic control capabilities, routing definitions, device location, and even service quality levels. Telecom network exposure APIs, the true NaaS value proposition for developers and customers, provides a pathway toward enhanced business value by offering network data to third-party partners and by incorporating network-enabled services into the catalog of offerings now provided to their customers."One of the most significant and game-changing features of the 5G architecture rests with the ability of communications SPs to engage with application developers, enterprises, and other communications SPs through active network APIs. The operations and monetization systems and process needs for engaging with customers via an API approach are significant but addressable if tools such as ecosystem orchestration and management platforms are put into play," says Karl Whitelock, research vice president, Communications Service Provider Operations and Monetization at IDC.