Ericsson has launched a wireless-first architecture designed to support higher-bandwidth, AI-powered and critical operations on branch networks.

The new architecture combines multiple WAN connectivity, LAN switching, network slicing, and zero-trust through unified management.

The architecture is designed to support a range of AI applications at remote locations including industrial, healthcare, education, retail and smart city, including AI experts and computer vision applications.

According to Ericsson, as 5G Advanced gains momentum, enterprises are seeking predictable performance for critical applications through services such as network slicing.

Ericsson’s wireless-first branch architecture combines the Cradlepoint E400, new LAN switches and access points, and NetCloud Manager.

Components of Ericsson’s new “wireless first” branch architecture include the following:

• The new Cradlepoint E400 is a next-generation routing and security appliance that serves as the core of the architecture – providing integrated support for 3GPP Release 17 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and LEO satellite WANs to deliver high-performance scalable connectivity from locations that can be highly remote.
• New Cradlepoint LAN switches and access points, which extend LAN capacity and are unified under Ericsson NetCloud Manager to augment LAN solutions from existing technical alliance partner solutions.
• Ericsson NetCloud Manager provides centralised control and provisioning of embedded eSIM and dual-SIM capabilities, enabling remote profile configuration, carrier switching, and streamlined deployment for lean IT teams.
• Ericsson NetCloud SASE, SD-WAN, and 5G network slicing capabilities to enhance reliable performance and security across diverse WAN connections.

While SD-WAN, link bonding and SASE optimise traffic across wired, cellular, and satellite links, network slicing delivers isolated, secure 5G slices with use-case specific parameters for critical applications.

Pankaj Malhotra, Head of Enterprise Networking and Security, Enterprise Wireless Solutions, Ericsson, said: “With the increased speed and decreased latency of 5G, businesses are now looking at 5G as not only a viable alternative to wires but also to innovate and transform their business. At Ericsson, we are removing the complexities of LAN architecture, security, cellular management, and multi-WAN optimisation with an integrated architecture under a single management platform.”