Private cellular networks (also known as private mobile networks, private LTE, or private 5G networks) are dedicated wireless networks that operate independently of public mobile networks like those from telecom providers (e.g., Vodafone, AT&T). These private networks are tailored for specific organizations, locations, or use cases, offering control, security, and performance benefits that public networks can’t always provide.

A study from Juniper Research has ranked Nokia, Ericsson, and Druid Software as key leaders within the private networks sector for 2021. Private cellular networks are cellular networks managed by or for specific businesses and do not allow unauthorized access.

They are generally used where other forms of connectivity are either unavailable or insufficient, such as on an offshore platform, mine or safety platform that requires no outages.

The Competitor Leaderboard identified the five leading private network vendors as follows:

• Nokia
• Ericsson
• Druid Software
• Telit
• Celona

Juniper Research’s Competitor Leaderboard provides an independent assessment of the market standing of the leading players. It includes a robust and transparent assessment methodology, including a heatmap analysis and a thorough explanation of each company’s market position. The Leaderboard tool assesses each vendor’s capacity, capability, and product positioning. This includes assessing the size of their operations, financial performance, and the sophistication of their private network offerings.

Private Cellular Networks Management – A Key Opportunity

The report, Private Cellular Networks: Spectrum Assessment, Business Models & Forecasts 2021-2026, found that traditional cellular network operators are often behind in the roll-out of private network capabilities, which has allowed other providers to step into the role. The most successful players here are network vendors with equipment channels that they can use as an entry point into the market. The flexible nature of 5G has enabled many non-traditional operators to provide private cellular services, particularly where regulation allows for the unlicensed use of 5G spectrum.

“While traditional cellular connectivity is the core of private networks’ benefits, many users will want to maintain other forms of connectivity technology, such as Wi-Fi and low-power wide area networks,” remarked report author James Moar. “If private network players want to move into multiple industries that already use a range of connectivity types, bridging the gap between these technologies will be necessary.”

How It Works

Private networks can be used:

• Licensed spectrum (via agreements with operators or through shared spectrums like CBRS in the U.S.).
• Unlicensed spectrum (less common, typically more limited in range and reliability).
• Edge computing integration for faster processing close to where data is generated.

Market Trend

• Increasing demand from enterprises for better security and performance.
• Growth driven by Industry 4.0, IoT, and digital transformation.
• Governments and telecoms are supporting development with spectrum availability.

Use Cases

• Manufacturing: Real-time control of machines and robotics (Industry 4.0).
• Airports & Ports: Secure communication and logistics management.
• Oil & Gas: Remote operations and monitoring.
• Healthcare: Secure IoT connectivity for devices and patient care.
• Smart Cities & Campuses: Unified communication, surveillance, and automation.