How 5G fits into state network modernization strategies

State CIOs considering network modernization should look at several different types of connectivity — including 5G, fiber and others — to deliver better citizen services, a Verizon executive says.

“From a connectivity perspective, what we’re seeing is the need for multiple types of connectivity,” says Anthony Battista, Verizon’s managing director of solution architecture. “CIOs are looking at ‘how do I get more mobility, more wireless-type connectivity.”

5G networks, with increased speeds and reliability, open the door for public sector agencies to modernize “immobile fixed connections, wired connections,” Battista says. Under the National Association of State Chief Information Officers’ 2022 top priorities list, 5G deployment is included under No. 4, “Broadband/Wireless Connectivity.”

The biggest challenge for state CIOs to consider around network modernization with technologies like 5G really comes around defining the technology and how it’s going to be used in the public sector, he says.

“It’s an interesting question as to how we define 5G — do you mean 5G mobility? 5G in the sense of a fixed wireless access to connection where you’re replacing WAN? Do you mean 5G in the way of private networking?” Battista says. “Once you get that definition, then it’s about use cases.”

At this stage in 5G development, Battista says many public sector agencies are piloting the network’s use in small projects, with a focus on scaling up long term.

This video is brought to you by Verizon.