What is Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS)?

Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS) is a cutting-edge, cloud-based model that delivers mobile network functionalities on demand. Ideal for businesses seeking to modernize their network operations, MNaaS eliminates the need for expensive physical infrastructure.

It’s an innovative approach that is transforming how businesses handle their mobile networking needs, making it a compelling choice for the future.

This article will cover:

• What is Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS)?
• How an MNaaS works
• The key benefits of using an MNaaS
• Some MNaaS use cases
• Challenges businesses can face with MNaaS
• How Meter can simplify your network management

What is Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS)?

Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS) is a modern, cloud-based service model that delivers a managed, scalable, and flexible alternative to traditional networking by transferring the complexities and responsibilities of network management to a specialized provider.

It’s an approach that not only streamlines day-to-day operations by freeing internal teams from the burdens of network maintenance but also allows organizations to optimize their IT budgets by converting what would typically be large capital expenditures (CapEx) into predictable operational costs.

MNaaS also enhances the resilience and security of network infrastructure by leveraging the provider’s expertise, up-to-date technologies, and robust security practices, ensuring that the network remains agile and protected against evolving threats.

This model ultimately enables businesses to focus more on their core competencies, driving growth and innovation without being encumbered by the demands of network management.

How MNaaS works

At its core, MNaaS operates through advanced cloud infrastructure managed by third-party vendors. These vendors maintain large-scale data centers equipped with the necessary hardware and software to deliver mobile network services.

Physical network resources are abstracted through virtualization technology, presenting them as virtual resources. Network functionalities, such as base stations and core network components, are virtualized and delivered over the cloud, removing the need for on-premise hardware.

Enterprises subscribe to mobile network services according to their needs. The subscription model allows businesses to access voice, data, and messaging services without maintaining physical infrastructure. These services are delivered through the Internet, offering flexibility and ease of access.

Key benefits of MNaaS

Embracing Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS) can revolutionize how businesses manage their network operations.

MNaaS provides a range of advantages that cater to modern enterprise needs, from cost efficiency to scalability.

Cost efficiency

MNaaS offers significant cost savings by eliminating the need for physical infrastructure. Instead of investing heavily in hardware and ongoing maintenance, businesses can opt for a pay-as-you-go model. Companies only pay for the services they use, making it a highly economical solution.

Future growth

One of the standout features of MNaaS is its ability to scale effortlessly according to demand. Whether your business is experiencing rapid growth or facing a temporary lull, MNaaS provides the flexibility to adjust network capacity quickly and efficiently. Network resources are always aligned with your current needs.

Less limitations

MNaaS allows enterprises to integrate new technologies and services without the limitations imposed by physical infrastructure. Your network can evolve with your business, adopting the latest advancements and meeting changing requirements with ease.

Reduced complexity

MNaaS simplifies network management by outsourcing the deployment, monitoring, and maintenance to specialized third-party providers. The complexity of network management is reduced, freeing up your internal teams to focus on core business activities.

Use cases of MNaaS

Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS) is transforming how various sectors manage connectivity. Here are a few practical applications:

Enterprises

MNaaS enhances internal communications and supports IoT applications. Businesses can leverage MNaaS to connect numerous devices and systems, streamlining communication channels and boosting operational efficiency.

For instance, in a manufacturing setup, MNaaS facilitates real-time monitoring and automation by connecting sensors, machinery, and control systems.

Telecom providers

For telecom providers, MNaaS offers an efficient way to expand coverage and capacity without incurring substantial capital expenditures. Utilizing MNaaS allows providers to deploy new services swiftly and extend their reach to underserved areas.

This flexibility lets telecom companies respond quickly to market demands and optimize network resources effectively.

For example, in a rural area where traditional network expansion would be cost-prohibitive, MNaaS enables providers to deliver reliable connectivity without the need for extensive physical infrastructure.

Events and venues

MNaaS proves advantageous for temporary networks required at large gatherings or remote locations.

It offers reliable mobile network services without necessitating permanent infrastructure, making it ideal for concerts, sports events, trade shows, and other large-scale events.

As an example, a music festival held in a remote area can benefit from MNaaS to provide attendees with dependable network coverage, facilitating communication, ticketing, and social media sharing.

Challenges with MNaaS

Network as a Service (MNaaS) offers numerous benefits, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Understanding and addressing these challenges is essential for successful implementation and operation.

Security concerns

The risks of data breaches, unauthorized access, and cyberattacks are higher in a multi-tenant setting. Businesses must collaborate closely with their service providers to establish comprehensive security measures.

This includes:

• Implementing encryption protocols
• Regular security audits
• Continuous monitoring

Compliance with industry standards and regulations by the service providers is also important to mitigate security risks effectively.

Reliability

Dependence on a third-party service provider for network uptime and performance introduces potential reliability issues. Network downtime or degraded performance can severely impact business operations.

To address this, it’s important to select a provider with a proven track record of reliability. Meter stands out in this regard, offering high uptime guarantees, redundant infrastructure, and comprehensive support services.

Evaluating the provider's service level agreements (SLAs) can also provide insights into their commitment to maintaining network performance and availability. Meter's SLAs clearly outline our dedication to reliability, giving you confidence in their ability to meet your network needs.

Scalability and flexibility

While MNaaS can offer scalability, managing sudden changes in demand can be challenging. Confirming that the service provider can quickly scale resources up or down as needed without compromising performance or security is crucial.

Businesses should work with providers who offer flexible service plans and have the infrastructure to support dynamic scaling.

Cost management

The pay-as-you-go model of MNaaS can be cost-effective, but without proper management, costs can quickly escalate. It's essential to have a clear understanding of the pricing structure and to monitor usage closely.

Implementing cost management practices, such as setting usage thresholds and regularly reviewing invoices, can help keep expenses under control.

Integration and compatibility

Integrating MNaaS with existing network infrastructure and systems can present compatibility challenges. It's important to verify that the service provider's solutions are compatible with the business's current technologies.

This may involve evaluating APIs, conducting thorough testing, and working with the provider to resolve any integration issues. Meter excels in this area by offering solutions that integrate with a variety of existing systems, facilitating a transition and ongoing compatibility.

Next steps: Simplify network management with Meter

Mobile Network as a Service (MNaaS) is a transformative solution for businesses looking to optimize their mobile network operations. It provides a cost-effective, scalable, and flexible alternative to traditional mobile network infrastructure.

Meter offers comprehensive solutions to simplify network management, allowing businesses to implement and maintain mobile networks with ease. By taking the reins of network management, Meter enables network engineers to focus on more strategic and impactful tasks.

Key features of Meter:

• Expert network design: Our team customizes network design to meet your specific business needs and future growth.
• Scalable infrastructure: We provide easily adjustable resources to match changing network demands without compromising performance.
• Enhanced security protocols: Advanced DNS security measures, including encryption and regular audits, are implemented to protect data integrity.
• User-friendly management: Our intuitive interface allows you to manage network settings, monitor performance with the patented Meter Dashboard, and generate reports.
• Fast issue resolution: Meter’s efficient support services resolve 99.9% of all issues within 24 hours, minimizing disruption.

Ready to see Meter in action? Schedule a personalized demo.