The Top 10 5G Events for Government in 2025

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

As the demand for enhanced connectivity continues to grow, the upcoming 5G events for Government professionals present a unique opportunity to explore the transformative potential of next-generation wireless technology. With 5G, agencies can achieve unprecedented levels of speed, reliability and efficiency, paving the way for innovative solutions in public safety, emergency management and critical infrastructure. These events will showcase how 5G is revolutionizing operations, enabling the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into Government workflows. Join Carahsoft and our esteemed partners at these pivotal gatherings to discover how to harness the power of 5G, engage with industry leaders and gain insights that will drive mission success while ensuring the security and integrity of Public Sector networks.

2025 5G Summit | Potomac Officers Club

February 27 | Tysons, VA | In-Person Event

The U.S. Government is at the forefront of leveraging 5G and FutureG technologies to drive transformative advancements. From strengthening national security and public safety to enhancing citizen services and critical Federal missions, 5G is set to revolutionize operations across the board. Ready to explore its full potential? Join the Potomac Officers Club’s 5G Summit to dive into key topics including 5G at the edge, its role in the DoD’s CJADC2 initiatives, 5G-enabled warfighting capabilities and more.

Sessions to look out for:

Securing 5G in the Field

Operationalizing the Vision: From 5G Concepts to Real-World Defense Applications with Leland Brown (Moderator)

Carahsoft is a key exhibiting sponsor at this year’s event, showcasing its dedication to advancing the public sector’s digital transformation. By partnering with leading technology providers, Carahsoft offers innovative 5G solutions that support secure communications, smart city applications and enhanced operational efficiencies. These collaborations ensure that Government agencies can deploy scalable and secure 5G technologies to meet the growing demands of their digital infrastructure.

MWC25

March 3-6 | Fira Gran Via, Barcelona | In-Person Event

Carahsoft Top 5G Events Blog Embedded Image 2025

Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2025 is a key industry event where leaders from top global companies, international Governments and innovative technology businesses gather to frame the future of connectivity. This event offers iconic insights from renowned and emerging voices across technology, industry, policy and ethics. Attendees can explore groundbreaking innovations from the world’s greatest startups and tech pioneers and witness the intersection of connectivity and connected industries driving revolutionary solutions. Additionally, MWC Barcelona is a unique platform for bridging ministerial programs, social policy, business leadership and technology development to achieve sustainable progress.

Sessions to look out for:

5G’s Big Moment: The Time is Now

5G Innovations That Matter: Real-World Use Cases Driving Value

Carahsoft maintains strategic partnerships with Nokia, AWS, Palo Alto Networks and Ericsson. These collaborations enable Carahsoft to offer a comprehensive range of 5G solutions and services to the public sector. By leveraging the strengths of these industry giants, Carahsoft ensures that Government agencies have access to cutting-edge technology for enhanced connectivity, security and cloud solutions. For more information visit 5G Technology Government Providers | Carahsoft.

IWCE 2025 Conference

March 17-20 | Las Vegas, NV | In-Person Event

The International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) is the premier annual event uniting stakeholders across public safety, Government, emergency management, utilities, education, transportation, healthcare and other critical infrastructure sectors. It is a unique opportunity to network, learn and explore how advancements in critical mobility technologies are transforming operations and reshaping the future of critical communications.

Sessions to look out for:

AI and 5G Mobile Devices: Transforming Public Safety Operations

Advancements in Spectrum Monitoring for Rapid RFI Location

Carahsoft collaborates with Verizon, T-Mobile and AWS to enhance Government connectivity with cutting-edge 5G solutions. These collaborations enable Carahsoft to provide secure and scalable 5G technologies that enhance communication, operational efficiency and smart city applications for public sector organizations. For more information visit 5G The Future of Government Connectivity | Carahsoft.

Future G for Defense Summit

March 26-27 | Alexandria, VA | In-Person Event

DSI’s 2nd Annual FutureG for Defense Summit will gather leaders from the DoD, Federal Government, industry and academia to discuss 5G and wireless networking technologies. This two-day event will focus on the adoption of commercial 5G and NextG technologies to support Warfighter. The implementation of 5G is crucial for faster speeds, more bandwidth and supporting advanced technologies like AI. Greater cooperation between the private sector and Government is essential for integrating 5G and FutureG capabilities. Senior leaders will address initiatives such as developing open radio networks (O-RAN) and fostering public-private partnerships to bridge the 5G gap.

Sessions to look out for:

5G, 6G, NextG: Preparing for the Next Generation of Wireless Network Technologies Across DoD

Integrating 5G Capabilities for the Future Soldier

Through its distribution partnerships with T-Mobile and MITRE, Carahsoft plays a vital role in advancing Government connectivity and defense capabilities. These strategic partnerships ensure the delivery of cutting-edge networking infrastructure and enablement of seamless secure connectivity for various Government applications.

OFC 2025

March 30-April 3 | San Francisco, CA | In-Person Event

Immerse yourself in the future of the high-quality optical communications and networking industry at OFC 2025. This premier event brings attendees the latest research, innovations and newest commercial products through hundreds of exhibitors, speakers and thought leaders across industry and academia. Additional programs attendees can expect throughout the week include symposia, in-depth tutorials, workshops and panels that will showcase market trends, emerging technologies and insight into the state of the industry.

Carahsoft is thrilled to announce our sponsorship of the Full Spectrum Rock n Roll Party and Concert on April 2! OFC badge holders get free entry to this exciting event. We invite you to join us, along with our strategic partners Infinera and Nokia, at the Chase Center in San Francisco for an unforgettable evening of food, drinks and rock ‘n’ roll. This event promises to be a fantastic opportunity to network, celebrate and enjoy great music!

Smart Cities Connect: Spring Conference and Expo

April 14-16 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event

Smart cities have transitioned from visionary concepts to practical realities, delivering significant benefits for both people and the planet. From pioneering pilot projects to long-term infrastructure investments, smart city solutions address pressing urban challenges. This spring, join thought leaders, urban planners, technologists, policymakers, researchers and industry experts to explore the strategies, critical elements and collaborative efforts needed to drive sustainable transformations in urban communities and examine the diverse dimensions of fostering lasting change in cities.

Sessions to look out for:

Open and Smart Solutions for the World’s Smartest Cities

Transforming Urban Infrastructure: Public Safety, Equity and Environment

Carahsoft’s dedication to advancing connectivity solutions and fostering innovation is showcased through its strategic partnerships with 2024 sponsors Intel, Dell, Nvidia and AWS. These collaborations enable Carahsoft to deliver cutting-edge technologies that enhance operational efficiency and secure communications for Government agencies. By working with these industry leaders, Carahsoft supports the digital transformation of the public sector, ensuring that Federal, State and Local Governments have access to the latest advancements in technology.

International Telecoms Week 2025

May 5-7 | National Harbor, MD | In-Person Event

International Telecoms Week (ITW) is the premier event for gathering leaders from across the digital infrastructure spectrum. ITW brings together visionaries and innovators to shape the future of global communications. With cutting-edge technologies and unparalleled networking opportunities, it serves as the largest platform to connect with the entire international connectivity market, from satellite to subsea and beyond.

Sessions to look out for:

Future Networks

Data Center 2.0

Multi-Channel Communications

Connect with Carahsoft’s strategic partners, including Nokia, Infinera and T-Mobile, at International Telecoms Week 2025 in National Harbor, MD. These industry leaders are sponsoring the event to showcase their commitment to innovation across the digital infrastructure spectrum. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies, network with experts and learn how these partnerships are driving advancements in connectivity and telecommunications. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!

Connectivity Expo 2025

May 12-14 | McCormick Place, Chicago, IL | In-Person Event

This event is a premier gathering for professionals in the connectivity industry, focusing on the latest advancements in 5G, fiber and wireless technologies. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, explore innovative solutions and participate in sessions covering a wide range of topics, from network infrastructure to digital transformation. Connectivity Expo Connect (X) is an essential event for anyone involved in the future of connectivity.

At the Connect (X) 2025, be sure to attend sessions on the latest 5G deployments, advancements in fiber technology and innovations in wireless infrastructure. These sessions will feature insights from industry leaders and showcase cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of connectivity.

Connect X will feature over 200 sponsors and exhibitors, cutting-edge content and more than 10 networking events. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from exclusive Carahsoft partners and speakers, including Sergio Adames, Director of New Partnerships and Business Development at T-Mobile; Tanveer Saad, Head of Edge Cloud Innovation and Ecosystem at Nokia; and Will Adams, VP of Strategic Policy and Planning at T-Mobile. These industry leaders will share their insights on the latest advancements in digital infrastructure and connectivity. Join us for an exciting and informative experience!

2025 UTC TELECOM & TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE

June 16-19 | Long Beach, CA | In-Person Event

Connect with industry experts and peers at this leading event tailored for information and communication technology (ICT) professionals and partners. Dive into four days of immersive learning and networking, featuring pre-conference training, workshops, roundtables and summits led by global experts who are actively driving utility modernization. Explore cutting-edge solutions in the Exhibit Hall and gain valuable insights to strengthen your professional toolkit.

Sessions to look out for:

Future of Fiber Technology 3-5 Year Outlook

Planning the Deployment of a Hybrid Advanced Communications Network of PLTE/5G & Fiber

Carahsoft maintains strategic partnerships with Premier and Gold sponsors Nokia and Ciena. At the 2025 UTC Telecom & Technology event, these collaborations will be showcased, highlighting joint efforts to enhance telecommunications infrastructure. The event, scheduled for June 16-19, 2025, at the Long Beach Convention Center, will bring together industry leaders to discuss advancements in information and communications technology (ICT). Carahsoft’s partnerships with Nokia and Ciena will be pivotal in demonstrating cutting-edge solutions for modernizing utilities and improving network performance.

Carahsoft | Public Sector 5G Summit

August 20 | Reston, VA | In-Person Event

We are excited to announce Carahsoft’s 2nd Annual 5G Summit, Create Opportunities for Innovation. Join us in person on Thursday, August 20 at 12:00pm in the Carahsoft Conference & Collaboration Center. Hear industry and Government thought leaders discuss the latest advancements in 5G network rollouts, explore how 5G can create new opportunities to fulfill agencies’ unique missions and look ahead to the future possibilities of 6G. Following our summit, please join us for a networking reception hosted by Carahsoft for delicious appetizers and refreshing drinks!

Register now to join us at the event and learn more about how Carahsoft and our partners can support your 5G mission initiatives. View our exclusive agenda to learn more about the sessions and speakers!

As the landscape of connectivity continues to evolve, attending key events focused on 5G and related technologies is essential for Government professionals and industry stakeholders alike. Carahsoft facilitates connections between leading experts and attendees while showcasing innovative solutions from its strategic partners. These events not only provide a platform for networking but also offer invaluable insights into the latest advancements and best practices shaping the future of communication infrastructure. Engaging with the vibrant community at these events, supported by Carahsoft’s commitment to advancing connectivity, will empower professionals to drive meaningful change and ensure that their organization remain at the forefront of the connectivity revolution.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events please contact us at 5G@carahsoft.com. For more information on Carahsoft and our industry leading 5G technology partners’ events, visit our 5G solutions portfolio and 5G Events page. 

Top Upcoming 5G Events for Government to Attend

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

Secure Public Sector networks with 5G wireless technology delivers high-speed wireless connectivity, faster data rates and lower latency for systems and communities across the nation. This next-generation mobile network enables the expansion of virtual reality (VR) and the Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. While many successful use cases have recently emerged showcasing the power of 5G in Government, Carahsoft partners are supporting agencies by providing powerful cellular networks and maintaining reliable mobile connections to achieve mission success without compromising security within workflows.

Explore more ways to leverage Carahsoft and our partners through our various upcoming Government events. Learn about acceleration of real-time delivery from devices, increased adoption of AI and multiaccess edge computing technologies (MEC) and other innovations from leading 5G technology service providers.

5G Summit

August 22 | Reston, VA

5G networks have become more common over the past few years. One study found that 5G’s worldwide share of mobile data traffic in 2021 was about 10% – but expected to grow to 60% by 2027. Government agencies are more selective when it comes to adopting 5G for their networks, partially due to higher costs associated with deploying such networks as well as unique requirements very large organizations such as the Department of Defense pose. Join thought leaders from Government and industry as they outline developments in 5G network rollouts at agencies and the ways 5G can be harnessed to open new opportunities to meet agencies’ various missions.

Sessions to look out for:

5G is at the Heart of CJADC2

5G’s Role in Modernization

The Future of 5G Technology in Government

Carahsoft is hosting this year’s 5G Summit alongside FedInsider, Cradlepoint, Nokia, Intel, T-Mobile, and Dell Technologies providing the latest management news from inside the Government.

T-Mobile Tech Experience: 5G Hub

August 27 | Bellevue, WA

Carahsoft Top 5G Events Blog Embedded Image 2024

Inaugurated in 2016, the Tech Experience has set out to create innovative and engaging experiences to inspire the industry to turn concepts into tangible, transformative solutions. The T-Mobile 5G Hub offers opportunities to meet with engineers, immerse in technology demonstrations and gain other valuable resources. At the event, hear directly from project partners about the successful projects crafted within the 5G Hub, explore video testimonials showcasing T-Mobile’s facilities, technology, expertise and partnerships, and get ready to participate in ample networking sessions.

Carahsoft partners AWS, Dell Technologies, Nokia, Ericsson, Microsoft, Google Cloud and Qualcomm will be featured at the 2024 T-Mobile Tech Experience.

ATARC Federal Mobility Summit

September 19 | Reston, VA

ATARC, the Advanced Technology Academic Research Center, and Carahsoft invite attendees to a day full of networking, innovation and collaboration within the world of federal mobility. At the Federal Mobility Summit, industry experts and leaders in Government will explore the latest trends and updates in mobile technology such as security, Zero Trust, acquisition, best practices and emerging solutions. Connect with peers and gain valuable insights into the future of mobility in the federal sector.

Sessions to look out for:

Securing Mobile Technologies: Identity, Zero Trust, and Threats

Navigating Mobile Acquisitions: Strategies and Best Practices

Next-Generation Networks: 5G, 6G, and Their Impact

Mission Enablement: Tools and Technologies for Success

Carahsoft is proud to host the Federal Mobility Summit at our office in Reston, Virginia and holds an ATARC membership, immersing further into the Federal IT community.

Open RAN GLOBAL FORUM

September 24 | Virtual

Open RAN, or Open Radio Access Network, is an evolving shift of industry standards and mobile architecture so that service providers can use equipment from multiple vendors while ensuring interoperability. The Open RAN Global Forum brings industry experts and Government together to delve into the latest updates for Open RAN including the role Open RAN will play in 6G, focusing on energy-efficient, AI-driven and customizable technology. Featuring interviews, live discussions and demos, attendees will learn more about adoption challenges and progress surrounding tier-one telecom operators’ roadmaps. Other key themes featured at this year’s event include examining the growth of AI and automation in RIC, exploring Open RAN economics and capitalization opportunities, testing and reducing energy consumption and more.

Carahsoft partners and mobile carries Verizon and T-Mobile will be featured at Open RAN GLOBAL FORUM.

Mobile World Congress

October 8-10 | Las Vegas, Nevada

Prepare for the new era of hyperconnected business and smart cities or procure technology that can be deployed right now to make legacy systems and existing processes faster, easier and more resilient with industrial-grade 5G. At Mobile World Congress, explore technology themes like enterprise transformation, AI networks and 5G EdgeCloud with 5G leaders, architects and systems integrators, as well as CIOs from successful 5G enterprises, and discover how this technology can solve today’s biggest industry challenges.

Carahsoft partners Verizon, Qualcomm and Microsoft will be featured at this year’s MWC.

5G Round Table Webinar Series

October 3 & November 14 | Virtual

This fall, join us for two 5G Round Table sessions featuring real-world insights from Intel and T-Mobile. Hear from thought leaders from Government and industry outlining developments in 5G network rollouts at agencies and the ways 5G can be harnessed to open new opportunities to meet agencies’ unique missions.

Carahsoft will be hosting this event alongside FedInsider. CPE credits will be provided for qualified participants.

AutoCon 2

November 18-22 | Denver, CO

Full adoption of network automation is a continuous challenge for the mobility community that innovators at AUTOCON 2 hope to discover a solution for. The first, single, in-person event was a foundational moment for collaborators to advance the state of automated network operations. Now, the founders of the event are working to grow AutoCon into a recurring series of practitioner-focused events. This fall’s event will feature informational conference sessions, workshops and networking opportunities.

Carahsoft partners Nokia and Arista will be featured at AUTOCON 2.

Carahsoft’s 5G Podcast Series

Multiple Events | Virtual

Carahsoft’s podcast series dives into the world of 5G technology solutions, featuring expert insights from industry leaders. Explore sessions on the strategic advantages and key technologies for 5G, relevant applications of 5G for Federal, State and Local Governments and specific agency use cases such as the transformative success stories, learning curves and future objectives of 5G for the Department of Defense. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to impact the power and possibilities of 5G technology.

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events please contact us at 5G@carahsoft.com. For more information on Carahsoft and our industry leading Cybersecurity technology partners’ events, visit our 5G Solutions Portfolio and 5G Events page. 

5G: Powering the Government’s Digital Transformation

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

5G technology has the capacity to speed data transfers and connect billions of devices at a time when mission success hinges on fast, secure access to data and people. 5G’s potential to enhance all government activities makes it an indispensable component of efforts to modernize IT systems and service delivery. Because of its low latency and capacity to carry vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently, 5G enables real-time access to information. As a result, it is facilitating the growth of smart cities, the use of artificial intelligence to improve government operations and the adoption of edge computing. The implications are profound for activities as varied as battlefield communications, military logistics and preparedness, and emergency response in situations where critical infrastructure is unavailable. Learn how government agencies can leverage all the resources in play to achieve the goal of open, interoperable and secure 5G networks Carahsoft’s Innovation in Government® report.

The Unifying Nature of 5G Technology

“5G technology is the first telecommunications standard that is cloud-native, making it critical for the government’s digital transformation. We now have a transport medium that aligns with and supports the flexibility, scalability and efficiency of cloud operating models and containerized functions and services. In addition, all aspects of a digital transformation strategy — including edge computing, artificial intelligence, cloud migration and application rationalization — center on data. With everything level-set architecturally to be cloud-native and containerized, 5G networks enable a common approach to managing data, and they also bring in a new capability for data sovereignty.”

Read more insights from Chris D. Thomas, technical strategist at Dell Technologies.

Why 5G Is Indispensable for Frontline Agencies

“Private 5G networks have distinct benefits for government, which is why DOD has stated that it is a strategic direction for the department. At Federated Wireless, we custom-build networks for high performance, scale and unlimited capacity using best-of-breed technology from a large ecosystem of suppliers. Private wireless networks provide strong security and control over where the data resides. Unlike a traditional cellular carrier that sends data through an off-site central core, private 5G networks are secure enclaves that are governed by zero trust architectures.”

Read more insights from Paul Battaglia, vice president of public sector at Federated Wireless.

The Key to Creating More Flexible 5G Networks

“JMA Wireless embarked on a project a couple of years ago to help bring 5G to the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, GA. We were part of a team that deployed a 5G network and added applications to enable officials to modernize warehousing and logistics at the base. As a result of those improvements, the base has reduced labor costs by 61%. Additionally, it used to take three to five days for items to move from the dock to the shelf. That timeline has been slashed to about 36 minutes as the combination of the 5G network and updated application environment drives major efficiencies in logistics operations.”

Read more insights from Rishi Bhaskar, senior vice president and general manager at JMA Wireless.

Sharing Critical Information in Real Time

“The deployment of 5G for government agencies requires a security approach that is independent from the underlying transport network. For our public safety and defense customers, we offer a security architecture based on Blackned’s TacticalCORE, which provides an over-the-top multidomain security layer, enabling authentication in contested environments and separate classified information spaces across the same infrastructure. All transport is considered untrusted with the ability to implement agency-specific encryption on the 5G network. This state-of-the-art security approach has already been accredited by the German BSI as NATO-restricted and enhanced security classifications are planned.”

Read more insights from Richie Obermayer, VP of technical sales at GuardSTACK Technologies.

How Agencies Can Reap the Benefits of 5G

“5G’s reliability and availability make it possible to build dedicated wireless networks that can be sliced so mission-critical applications run in separate areas while the government maintains full control over that network. Last but certainly not least, 5G networks have carrier-grade, built-in security standards, including SIM cards that are provisioned and activated for a specific network. Users cannot connect to the network without inserting a highly secure SIM into their devices.”

Read more insights from Derrick Frost, senior vice president of operations and general manager of private wireless at Kajeet.

Private Networks and the Evolving 5G Ecosystem

“Private networks are well-suited to agency use cases for a number of reasons. First and foremost is security, which is the bedrock of every cellular network. Beyond the built-in security private 5G networks bring, they also have the capacity to add extra layers of security. The other components of a robust network include radio frequency technology and the latest 5G devices and radios. Once that foundation is in place, agencies can explore the wide range of use cases that a private 5G network can address. Deployments include standalone networks for first responders, border patrol agents and tactical response units, as well as secure, reliable networks for telemedicine providers.”

Read more insights from Derek Gallagher, CTO at Druid Software.

Download the full Innovation in Government® report for more insights from 5G thought leaders and additional industry research from FCW.

Revolutionizing Communication with 5G

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

As technology progresses, communication is revolutionized worldwide. To maintain pace with cybersecurity and technology standards, the United States Government can utilize the transformative features of 5G, the fifth-generation global wireless technology standard for cellular networks.

Transforming Network Standards with O-RAN

With the development of Open Radio Access Networks (O-RAN,) a feature that allows interoperability between cellular network equipment providers, the development and integration of 5G has greatly expanded. The role of O-RAN has important applications in the Department of Defense (DoD), whose goal is to promote national and economic security. By integrating 5G networks into the defense sector, different departments can quickly communicate with each other. With the usage of O-RAN and 5G combined, agencies have a much larger, diverse ecosystem of vendors to choose from.

As with any new feature, there are costs to the implementation process. In the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, Congress put aside $1.5 billion dollars which is being utilized to develop a unified vision and strategy towards O-RAN and 5G. The congressional statutory language calls out seven big-picture objectives, most of which are centered around promoting the deployment of 5G. These are to:

Add network virtualization
Authorize new security features
Accelerate the development of technology
Promoting the deployment of 5G within the DoD
Develop standards to enable a multi-vendor ecosystem
Create open, interoperable telecommunication networks
Allow interoperability to manage multi-vendor situations

While the act provides ten years to carry out its strategy, these standards should be added as soon as possible due to the fast-paced development of technology.

Aiding the DoD

The DoD and 5G form a mutually beneficial relationship. 5G is created with security built in, so an investment in 5G is an investment in cybersecurity. By utilizing 5G at bases, the DoD can test its capabilities, as well as streamline and amplify the effectiveness of non-combat operations. This can include supply chain efficiency, large scale IoT networks, asset tracking and logistics management all while reducing costs. In return, the DoD tests and further funds 5G. The addition of 5G can provide lower mission costs, enhanced speed and provide higher quality operations. It also factors in risk reduction to each operation, by taking the cumbersome human process out of the equation and making certain operations less complex.

For the DoD, the key motivations in testing and using 5G are threefold. One, it aims to achieve streamlined and functioning interoperability, where individuals can handle operations from a single tablet. Two, it aims to reduce the amount of manual handling in operations. Since 5G has the latency to compute such artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities, it can perform time consuming tasks such as perimeter security. And three, the usage of 5G allows the DoD to gather data about 5G to utilize predictive analytics in the future.

The Future of 5G

There is more that 5G can do for military applications. With the advantage of 5G, there may be a paradigm shift in the usage of private wireless and on-demand communication. One of the biggest advancements of using 5G in a military context is the flexibility that comes with 5G being cloud native. 5G provides more capacity than traditional Wi-Fi or hotspots as it focuses on transport networks. With 5G, international communication could be streamlined, as frequency coordination between departments and consumers would no longer be required. 5G comes with the benefits of mobile edge computing and being O-RAN compliant, meaning it is up to Federal standards. This could even be helpful in residential rural and remote environments, where internet and satellite access is limited. There have been tests across various United States bases, aiming to utilize ML to tailor 5G to each user’s needs. To get these features, consistent testing is vital, even if it is not immediately profitable.

With all the changes to the way combatants use technology, it is important to enable the military to integrate 5G operations. By codifying new strategies and usage methods, agencies can reference, read and follow through with new procurements. With the addition of 5G, communication within the DoD and nation can be revolutionized in nearly unimaginable ways.

Visit Carahsoft’s 5G technology solutions portfolio to learn more about Carahsoft’s 5G Summit event and how we, along with our partners, can leverage the best and most reliable services to support your organization’s 5G mission.

*The information contained in this blog has been written based off the thought-leadership discussions presented by speakers at Carahsoft’s annual 5G Conference.*

Innovation in Government: The Future of Technology with Dell

Posted on by Erica Raymond

Advances in communications, data analytics and cloud ecosystems are supercharging efforts to modernize government. Leaders recognize that partnerships with industry are essential to their success with emerging technologies, including groundbreaking tools and techniques that help agencies tackle a wide array of challenges. The government is facing monumental challenges, such as the economy, climate change, public health and military preparedness. These large-scale, broad impact problems require new and innovative ideas to solve. Organizations such as the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have released guidance and strategies for agencies hoping to move past existing restrictions by updated legacy systems. Carahsoft’s most recent Innovation in Government Report includes insights from industry experts at Dell Technologies on how emergent technologies can help government push past those boundaries, with deep dives on 5G, artificial intelligence, digital twins, edge computing and cloud ecosystems.

A Secure Way to Use AI-Assisted Data Analytics

“Federated learning is becoming increasingly relevant given the emergence of ChatGPT and other AI-based technologies. Industry and government leaders recognize that it is essential to develop AI in an ethical, unbiased way that ensures information privacy and security. The only way to do that is to take a critical look at the technologies that are evolving and shape them in an intentional way. Right now, AI is not as secure as it could be. It is susceptible to the same vulnerabilities that affect other technologies. Therefore, agencies and their industry partners should focus on protecting data where it resides, instituting a zero trust architecture and securing AI algorithms.”

Read more insights from Ed Hicks, business development manager for federal and AI at Dell Technologies.

What the Evolution of 5G Means for Government

“5G is the first generation of cellular technology that’s cloud native, which means it has the flexibility to be fully virtualized and deployed in several different architectural designs, hosted on commercial servers. Agencies now have the ability to dynamically scale up or down depending on the network load at the moment. In addition, many large hyper-scaler cloud vendors are exploring ways to provide 5G as a service and combine the virtualized network function with cloud-hosted workloads, integrating the telco workload into the traditional IT stack.”

Read more insights from Greg Burrill, 5G/Networking Alliance Manager at Dell Technologies.

Taking Modernization to the Next Level with Digital Twins

“Digital engineering is digital transformation applied to the realm of systems engineering. It is another path to IT modernization. Digital twins require the foundations of a digitally transformed environment and its elements of data management, agile development, DevSecOps and container-based orchestration. Digital twins focus on bringing data from the physical world into the digital arena, gleaning insights through artificial intelligence and then displaying those insights visually for users. Digital twins can deploy those conclusions in the physical world, measure the results of the changes and start the loop over again by feeding that data back into the digital arena.”

Read more insights from Ken Rollins, Technology Architect for Digital Engineering/Edge at Dell Technologies.

How Repatriation Fits into a Broader Cloud Strategy

“When agencies simply lifted and shifted workloads into the cloud, they often experienced inefficiencies and cost overruns. Now that agencies are gaining a better understanding of cloud models and how to adapt their workloads to run efficiently in the cloud, they have begun to more carefully consider when it makes the most sense to put a workload into a public cloud and when it is better to pull it back to run on premises, known as cloud repatriation. Those decisions should be part of a larger strategy for appropriate workload placement.”

Read more insights from Manny Yusuf, Chief Cloud/Edge Architect at Dell Technologies.

Future-Ready Data Centers for Government Agencies

“A software-defined data center (SDDC) virtualizes all the infrastructure elements that government agencies are using and delivers them in an as-a-service model. Specifically, compute, networking, storage, security and services are abstracted and delivered as automated, policy-driven software. That virtualized, programmatic approach enables SDDCs to break down IT silos and simplify complexities. The benefits include gains in performance and availability and reductions in costs and security risks. An SDDC enables applications to be deployed more quickly and IT resources used more effectively through the use of cloud-based services.”

Read more insights from Manny Yusuf, Chief Cloud/Edge Architect at Dell Technologies.

A Flexible Cost Model for Cloud and Infrastructure

“Maintaining visibility into IT operations is crucial for understanding and mitigating security risks as well as for better managing costs. Agencies might need to achieve a specific return on investment, meet certain efficiencies or comply with unique mission requirements. Regardless of the goal, a simplified cost model provides a comprehensive understanding of what it costs the agency to run workloads on premises, at the edge or in any cloud location. Dell APEX also allows agencies to maintain oversight of their IT environment and expenses when they are running a software factory and pushing out new capabilities on a continuous basis. Anytime something new is put in the cloud, it’s important to have visibility into its long-term costs so that agencies can avoid inefficiencies.”

Read more insights from Manny Yusuf, Chief Cloud/Edge Architect at Dell Technologies.

Download the full Innovation in Government® report for more insights from emerging technology thought leaders and additional industry research from FCW.

A Two-Step Framework for Securing and Monitoring Military Drone Networks

Posted on by Brandon Shopp

In the coming years, the Department of Defense (DoD) will spend billions of dollars on unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), which will include the expansion of the fleet through the Blue UAS effort, training, and maintenance. Drones and autonomous vehicles perform a variety of tasks in the battlespace, including mine-sweeping, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and search and rescue operations. However, there are challenges to monitoring the security and performance of these mobile endpoints—and the complex 5G networks they depend on.

How, then, can federal IT pros reap the benefits of UAS and 5G while bolstering the DoD’s IT infrastructure to realize those advantages without consequence? The answer is to introduce a two-fold focus within this ever-evolving environment.

Build a Robust, Layered UAS Security Framework

From the manufacturing process through to deployment, drones are a lucrative target for nefarious actors seeking to disrupt operations, damage infrastructure, and cause bodily harm. Common tactics include injecting malicious code into UAS parts, using GPS spoofing to hijack a drone mid-flight, and hacking communications between the drone and controller and breaching sensitive data.

Mitigating these threats requires a layered approach. This starts with basic security hygiene, including strong passwords, data encryption, and the use of automatic push update software to ensure software stays current and vulnerabilities are addressed in a timely manner.

But some hackers have the expertise to bypass this first line of defense. To combat this, military units must layer in more advanced measures. For example, snap-on deception technology can obscure the location of a drone and pilot. In addition, if a drone is lost or captured, cyber-hardening modules can protect against data exfiltration, erase log files, and shut the drone down.

Machine learning (ML) algorithms can also be leveraged to learn from drone flight patterns and behavior and flag anything deemed suspicious. Sophisticated ML and security information and event management (SIEM) tools can even continuously monitor drone-to-base communication for a complete understanding of the security status of UAS devices and network connections—in near real time.

Gain End-to-End Observability of Hybrid 5G Networks

UAS operating on next-generation 5G wireless technology benefit from various advantages, such as unlimited bandwidth for uninterrupted control and high-speed transmission of image and video. 5G also offers security benefits. These networks can be designed to route traffic through an IP tunnel encrypted by default. Plus, additional security features can be layered on top without slowing the network.

However, 5G also brings increased complexity and visibility challenges. 5G networks comprise cloud and virtualized environments incredibly difficult to configure, monitor, and manage at scale using disparate legacy tools. As a result, IT teams risk drowning in a sea of alerts and disjointed analytics and may lack actionable insights to quickly identify, prioritize, and resolve issues.

To solve the challenges of 5G’s hybrid reality, military organizations must shift from a reactive to proactive IT posture and go beyond conventional monitoring. The best way to get a handle on connected UAS is to use single-pane-of-glass monitoring coupled with actionable intelligence delivering greater visibility, dependency insights, and operational predictability into everything connected to the network. With this automated toolset, they can visualize the entire 5G hybrid environment, reduce alert fatigue, accelerate issue resolution, and eliminate tool sprawl.

Finally, because encryption is a key capability of 5G networks, it can erode observability and insights into malicious activity, such as malware originating from a suspicious IP or connected UAS. Network architects should consider advanced traffic analysis strategies capable of segmenting encrypted traffic, decrypting it, inspecting it, and re-encrypting it—continuously and in real time—without compromising classified data.

Turning Challenges Into Possibilities

The distributed nature of UAS and 5G technologies is a complex challenge for the DoD that increases the attack surface and demands end-to-end oversight.

Fortunately, as these technologies have advanced, so has observability, helping federal IT pros gain deep, holistic visibility into hybrid 5G network environments and edge UAS devices—with a low total cost of ownership.

SolarWinds Hybrid IT Observability solutions are built to fortify mission-critical services. Click here to learn more.

CISA’s National Strategy to Secure 5G

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

In March 2020, the White House announced its decision to develop the National Strategy to Secure 5G in hopes of expanding modern technological use in the federal government.^[1] However, the process has been difficult for companies to follow, as 5G introduces challenges like an increased surface area, software weaknesses, and decreased visibility. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), a federal agency that aims to understand, manage, and secure cyber and physical infrastructure, has introduced a five-step 5G implementation process. With its partners from the Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate, as well as the Department of Defense’s Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E), CISA offers federal agencies a blueprint to initiating and navigating the risk management process for authorizing 5G systems.^[1]

5G has become a priority because it is a wireless technology that combines ubiquitous connectivity and computing. By using more bandwidth and higher frequencies, 5G succeeds in carrying more data quickly and efficiently. This type of network will be critical for projects in fields such as transportation, national defense and industrial production. The technology differs from most in that it allows users to specialize coverage to specific Internet of Things (IoT) or smart devices.^[2]

Hurdles to Implementation

The first hurdle agencies have faced is an increased attack surface after installing 5G. Since connecting to the IoT would mean working in a space where security is not built in, there would be a wider range of vulnerabilities for attackers to find. Secondly, connecting to a wider network would increase the surface of the network, supply chain and software weaknesses, opening it up to more areas of attack. Finally, adding 5G can decrease the network visibility, and companies who do not utilize additional network visibility software may not gain network traffic viewership to identify abnormalities.^[2]

Benefits of 5G

Despite potential setbacks, 5G has a variety of extremely useful features that will aid federal agencies’ technology use in innovative ways. Through the technology’s low, middle and high band radio spectrum, network slicing and edge computing, 5G will provide the public sector with new features, capabilities and services.^[3] Security enhancements include:

Shield and Encryption identification that protect information from rogue devices
Data routing through virtual hubs that cannot be easily changed or moved that allows device compatibility with intelligent software and virtual hardware
A stronger encryption algorithm that disincentivizes hackers from decrypting your private information
High band radio spectrum that creates a more secure connection at quicker speeds^[4]
A consistent user experience across network alternatives
Effortless network securement in remote locations, which can allow users to safely conduct business remotely
Safe network access on mobile devices that impact productivity and quick remediation capabilities^[2]

To combat security risks, CISA has put forth a strategic initiative plan for federal agencies to follow.

There are five main steps in adapting 5G technology:

Define the federal 5G use case
Identify the assessment boundary
Identify security requirements
Outline security requirements to match federal guidance
Assess security guidance gaps and alternatives^[3]

One of the main goals of this process is to help agencies fill potential security gaps if they had applied 5G on their own. Agencies should utilize this initiative to identify important threat frameworks, 5G system security considerations, industry security specifications, federal security guidance documents and relevant methodologies to conduct cybersecurity assessments of 5G systems.^[3] The standards provide a uniform and flexible approach to 5G and help federal agencies better evaluate, understand and address security and resilience to inspire future innovation.

A Positive Future

While every new technological advancement comes potential weaknesses, they provide greater potential for ensuring the security of the nation and the economy. As a result, CISA helps users add 5G to their networks in a uniform and flexible manner, and encourages agencies and organizations to provide feedback on the 5G Security Evaluation Process. These comments will be taken into consideration for adapting the strategy and guaranteeing that the guidelines will assist every government agency in their journey to safely adapt 5G.

Carahsoft and its vendors bring together a vast variety of security experts. With our aid and solutions, we can help you gain the knowledge and software needed to implement and evaluate 5G and keep your network secure. For more information regarding the evaluation process for 5G in federal government, visit our website.

[1] “5G Security and Resilience,” Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. https://www.cisa.gov/5g

[2] “What is 5G Security? Explaining the Security Benefits and Vulnerabilities of 5G Architecture,” AT&T Cybersecurity. https://cybersecurity.att.com/blogs/security-essentials/what-is-5g-security

[3] “5G Security Evaluation Process Investigation Version 1,” Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/publications/5G_Security_Evaluation_Process_Investigation_508c.pdf

[4] “What is 5G an Why Does it Matter,” Verizon. https://www.verizon.com/about/our-company/5g/what-5g

Accelerating Digital Transformation

Posted on by The Carahsoft Team

The pandemic has highlighted the urgency of modernizing government systems and propelled agencies forward on their journey to digital transformation. In a recent survey of FCW readers, 71% of respondents said the pandemic had accelerated their agencies’ efforts to modernize IT. A successful digital transformation has certain key elements. Agencies must be able to protect and fully utilize their data, make optimal use of cloud technology, and take advantage of the latest developments in telecommunications. Those elements are not self-contained, but interlocking and overlapping. Therefore, fitting all the pieces together requires a holistic approach. In a digital-centric government, policymaking and service delivery are driven by data. The customer experience is more satisfying because it has the right balance of security and convenience. Government employees collaborate with one another seamlessly and securely regardless of location. And agencies have agile, intelligent platforms and infrastructure that support innovation in even the most challenging conditions. Achieving that vision is a struggle for many agencies, but there are signs of progress. As agencies take a more comprehensive approach to modernization, they will make rapid progress on improving public-facing and back-office operations. Learn how that progress will lead to even bigger improvements and the capacity to tackle ever-greater challenges in Carahsoft’s Innovation in Government® report.

5G: Real-Time Operations at the Enterprise Edge

“The era of real-time analytics In the past, government agencies didn’t have many real-time tasks to manage. But now we are moving into the era of machine learning, artificial intelligence, real-time analytics, high-performance telemetry, management tuning and dynamic infrastructure. It’s important to make sure that data and processing exist in a place that can operate in real time, and that place is not the enterprise data center or even public clouds. Instead, real-time operations should happen close to where users are — at the enterprise edge. 5G environments have an edge very close to the mobile user, maybe in the cell site itself. Other edges exist further into the backhaul and create an aggregate set of compute and processing capabilities that bring this next-generation intelligent connectivity and processing into the mobile experience.”

Read more insights from Dell’s Technology Strategist, Chris Thomas.

Navigating the Complexities of Cloud Repatriation

“There are many factors that might prompt agencies to consider moving to another cloud environment, including cost, application performance, security and data protection requirements. In most public clouds, applications with frequent data uploads or downloads will typically incur higher-than-normal hosting costs due to ingress and egress charges. Ideally, agencies should have a consumption model that aligns with their data access needs. Similarly, depending on the volume of data and the location of users and adjacent applications, latency may be introduced into application processing, which will present itself to users as poor performance.”

Read more insights from Dell’s Senior Director of Federal Presales, Michael Byrne.

A Modern Approach to Data Protection

“Cloud technology opens up enhanced capabilities to protect one of the most important resources that government agencies have: their data. Those capabilities include maintaining archive copies, establishing or further extending best practices for data backup, and creating an isolated and immutable copy of data that is recoverable should there be a cyber incident. In fact, isolation and immutability are essential techniques that can help agencies protect critical data from ransomware and other sophisticated threats. The overarching goal is to achieve cyber resilience, which is a combination of information security, data protection and cyber recovery.”

Read more insights from Dell’s Advisory Systems Engineer for Cyber Resilience, Jason Proctor.

The 7 Pillars of a Zero Trust Architecture

“Agencies already have substantial investments in cybersecurity tools they can leverage as they move to zero trust. They can start by taking stock of the applications, practices and services they are currently using that support zero trust principles. Which ones are missing? And which tools does an agency have that it’s not using? New products are often deployed without enabling their full security capabilities, so agencies should consider what untapped features in their existing tools could help them enhance their cybersecurity posture. Then they can identify what they need to purchase to fill any gaps.”

Read more insights from Dell’s Field CTO for Cybersecurity, Daniel Carroll.

A Dynamic Way to Create Hybrid Cloud Environments

“When agencies are deciding which workloads belong in a public cloud versus an on-premises environment, it’s rarely a point-in-time consideration. Instead, that determination often includes anticipating future changes. Although agencies may be entirely on-premises today, they may intend to move at least a portion of today’s on-premises workloads to a public cloud in a couple of years, and they are looking to vendors to help them make that transition. APEX Flex on Demand allows customers who are buying compute, hyper-converged, converged or storage solutions to acquire what they need today while giving them some flexibility for what they may need or may not need tomorrow if or when they move workloads between on-premises and public clouds.”

Read more insights from Dell Financial Services’ Vice President, Mike Sullivan.

Download the full Innovation in Government® report for more insights from these digital transformation thought leaders and additional industry research from FCW.

5G Military Testing: Paving the Way for the Future

Posted on by Mark DeMerse

The DoD’s 5G Military Strategy

Approval of the 2022 defense budget on March 15, 2022 provided another $600 million for the Department of Defense’s (DoD) “5G to Next G” Initiative ^[¹^]. This additional investment in the DoD program allows for continued progress in the Tranche 1 sites and the further launching of Tranche 2. In response to the current defense strategy update, the effort covers 5G (fifth generation mobile technologies) experimentation and testing at a total of 12 military test sites. The FY22 funding brings 5G military spending to over 1.85 billion since 2020. The 5G military initiative aligns with President Biden and the DoD’s top priorities of strengthening military advantages to counter threats from China, modernizing the military, and expanding research and development.

The first five 5G test sites initiated in October 2020, referred to as Tranche 1, specialize in different aspects of 5G technology and include:

Hill Air Force Base, Utah–Dynamic Spectrum Utilization
Fort Hood, Texas–Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality Training (Formerly at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington)
Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia–5G Smart Warehousing (Vehicular)
Naval Base San Diego, California–5G Smart Warehousing (Transshipment)
Nellis Air Force Base, Las Vegas, Nevada–Distributed Command and Control ^[²^]

The same year the DoD announced Tranche 2 test sites which included another seven military bases. These sites include:

Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia—Ship-wide and Pier-side Connectivity
Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii—Enhancing Aircraft Mission Readiness
Joint Base San Antonio, Texas—Augmented Reality Support of Maintenance and Training & 5G Core Security Experimentation Network
Fort Hood, Texas—Wireless Connectivity for Forward Operating Bases (FOB) and Tactical Operations Centers (TOC)
National Training Center (NTC) Fort Irwin, California—Wireless Connectivity for Forward Operating Bases (FOB) and Tactical Operations Centers (TOC)
Camp Pendleton, California—Wireless Connectivity for FOBs and TOCs
Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma–Bi-directional Spectrum Sharing Between DOD Communications Systems and Commercial 5G Systems ^[³^]

These experiments are the largest full-scale 5G tests for dual-use applications in the world. The DoD’s primary goals for these 5G tests are to: promote technology development; assess, mitigate, and operate through 5G vulnerabilities; influence 5G standards and policies; and engage partners.

Current Developments and Relevance

Since the initial 2020 funding, the base test sites have been progressing in their respective areas. In June 2021, the DoD released the first update for Tranche 1 and hosted a demonstration of the $90 million prototype being tested at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Georgia. The smart warehousing demonstration of 5G speeds displayed enhancements for the inventory management of autonomous vehicles, machine learning, and augmented/virtual reality uses combined with a zero-trust security strategy^[⁴^]. Hill Air Force Base in Utah, also a part of Tranche 1, celebrated its successful deployment of a private 5G network in December 2021 with additional upgrade goals scheduled for May 2022^[5]. As of a January 2022 report, Tranche 2 sites are still being established. Officials hope they will reach maturity by the end of the year^[6].

These tech advancements become even more critical because the U.S. is not the only country attempting to integrate 5G technology with its military. Michael Brown, director of the Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit, calls China’s strides in the 5G realm “shocking and alarming.” Brown considers the U.S. in a superpower race with China to launch full-scale military 5G usage^[7]. Interference to the system from Russia poses another threat. The latest U.S. National Defense Strategy emphasized, “Success no longer goes to the country that develops a new technology first, but rather to the one that better integrates it and adapts its way of fighting.”^[8]

Benefits of 5G Military Usage

5G technology unlocks immense benefits that surpass previous networks’ capabilities and allow for additional integration of resources. While the most prominent improvements are the increased speed, reduced latency, and better reliability, there are many other benefits that apply to the military specifically. Since 5G includes more software and cloud capabilities that were previously unavailable with 4G, the military can decentralize their command centers. Having a functionally integrated but physically separate command center decreases vulnerability and makes the centers harder for enemies to target^[9]. This software and location mobility enables the network to be reconfigured spontaneously and increases flexibility which is crucial on the warfront.

5G’s boosted data rates of 20-100 times faster than any current network speeds provide access to near real-time data and the power to sustain Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity that was previously unattainable^[10]. This feature is an integral part of mobilizing the military’s Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) strategy and interconnected missions^[11]. Additionally, 5G embeds encryption, network slicing, and other new privacy controls necessary for a secure network^[12].

As the DoD collaborates with commercial organizations for 5G production, the military can influence the development and technology standards to support military requirements. These revolutionary results are only possible if the challenges of security and implementation are solved.

Challenges with Incorporating 5G

Even with the additional security capabilities, protecting the network from bad actors remains a primary concern. Especially in scenarios where the military is operating in hostile environments, secure 5G infrastructure may not be available. Installation in such areas can be particularly costly and infeasible^[13]. Another weakness of the new network is prevalent signal disruption by physical objects such as buildings and rain. This interference comes in addition to the intentional interruption and eavesdropping by enemies, which compromises the reliability and integrity of the system^[10].

Throughout the entire experimentation, production, and implementation process, the DoD must be extremely vigilant to confirm that the network components are safe and uncover new vulnerabilities through continual testing. Zero trust plays a massive role in 5G systems since it employs a significant amount of third-party hardware and software. Each application and device adds to the possible attack surface, necessitating additional precautions.

The digital refresh rate raises questions about long-term viability and return on investment. With discussions of 6G already underway, Kelly Marchese, Principal for Deloitte Consulting LLP, says that during the experimentation phase, test crews must work quickly but also ensure that they assess a wide enough scope of options and prepare for new adaptations. “Otherwise, by the time the defense application for 5G is ready to be rolled out, it may already be dated,” Marchese said. She described their philosophy as, “think big, start small, scale fast.”^[13]

The Future of Military 5G

This modernization effort with 5G is an imperative step for the military in advancing technologies. The future lies in combining the speed, security, and bandwidth of 5G with AI and machine learning to derive the most reliable, comprehensive intelligence^[10]. Excellence and efficiency in current research and testing paves the way for expedited innovation in the coming years.

Chris Bates, Specialist Leader with Deloitte Consulting LLP, believes that tech companies should view this as a massive opportunity to invest and play a vital role in assisting the DoD to achieve and roll out 5G capabilities and support national and economic security^[14].

The new defense strategy is set to release in early 2022 and will offer more insight into the latest updates, directives, and priorities.

Visit our website to learn more about how Carahsoft brings together proven vendors with powerful 5G solutions and our upcoming events surrounding the latest 5G initiatives.

^[1] “Department of Defense 5G Investment in Fiscal 2022,” GovWin from Deltek, https://iq.govwin.com/neo/marketAnalysis/view/Department-of-Defense-5G-Investment-in-Fiscal-2022/6297?researchTypeId=1&researchMarket=

^[2]“New 5G challenge to incentivize open architecture solutions,” C4ISRNET, https://www.c4isrnet.com/smr/5g/2022/01/28/new-5g-challenge-to-incentivize-open-architecture-solutions/

^[3]“Pentagon names seven new bases for 5G test beds,” C4ISRNET, https://www.c4isrnet.com/battlefield-tech/it-networks/5g/2020/06/04/pentagon-names-seven-new-bases-for-5g-test-beds/

^[4]“Department of Defense Successfully Demonstrates a 5G Network for Smart Warehouses,” U.S. Department of Defense, https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/2650242/department-of-defense-successfully-demonstrates-a-5g-network-for-smart-warehous/#:~:text=The%20Department%20of%20Defense’s%20(DOD,built%20in%20the%20United%20States.

^[5] “DoD Kicks Off 5G Dynamic Spectrum Sharing Experimentation at Hill AFB,” U.S. Department of Defense, https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/2859222/dod-kicks-off-5g-dynamic-spectrum-sharing-experimentation-at-hill-afb/

^[6] “Pentagon to Launch New 5G Challenge to Support Military Sites,” Potomac Officers Club, https://potomacofficersclub.com/news/pentagon-to-launch-new-5g-challenge-to-support-military-sites/

^[7] “Defense Department Further Accelerating 5G Development,” National Defense Magazine, https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2021/1/7/defense-department-further-accelerating-5g-development

^[8] “Why the World’s Militaries are Embracing 5G,” IEEE Spectrum, https://spectrum.ieee.org/lockheed-martin-5g

^[9] “Military 5G Testing Will Pave the Way for Modernization,” FedTech, https://fedtechmagazine.com/article/2021/05/military-5g-testing-will-pave-way-modernization

^[10] “What 5G Means to the Military,” Military + Aerospace Electronics, https://www.militaryaerospace.com/rf-analog/article/14188341/military-5g-communications

^[11]“How the Joint All-Domain Command and Control Will Use 5G to Improve Mission Effectiveness,” Carahsoft, https://www.carahsoft.com/community/carahsoft-5g-jadc2-mission-effectiveness-blog-2021

^[12]“Take 5: 5G Cybersecurity,” Deloitte, https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/consulting/articles/take-five-on-5g-cybersecurity.html

^[13] “Department of Defense 5G Strategy Implementation Plan: Advancing 5G Technology & Applications Securing 5G Capabilities,” United States Department of Defense,https://www.cto.mil/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/DOD-5G-Strategy-Implementation-Plan.pdf

^[14] “Take 5: 5G and the DoD,” Deloitte, https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/consulting/articles/take-5-5g-dod.html

Using AIOps and Observability to Boost Network Resiliency

Posted on by Krishna Sai

When the U.S. National Science Foundation announced its intent to form a program dedicated to making next-generation networks more resilient, the message was clear. In an increasingly connected world, we can’t afford to have communication networks experience measurable levels of failure or degradation in the wake of a possible attack—we can’t even afford human error.

The Resilient and Intelligent Next-Generation Systems (RINGS) program came on the heels of the Department of Defense’s US$600 million investment in 5G technologies. Other industries, including mission-critical ones like healthcare and utilities, are also banking on next-gen telecommunications systems to advance everything from telemedicine to smart equipment management.

But to achieve true resilience, organizations must adopt approaches capable of going beyond traditional network monitoring and embrace new technologies. Solutions like AIOps and network observability can reduce the time it takes to identify and repair network failures, boosting network resiliency and performance.

What Is AIOps?

AIOps is the method of applying artificial intelligence and its components, including predictive analytics and machine learning, to IT operations. AIOps collects data from various sources and turns it into actionable intelligence, which organizations can use proactively to address and even anticipate certain situations—for example, signs of a network intrusion or service disruption.

How Is AIOps Different From Traditional Network Monitoring?

AIOps goes further than traditional network monitoring. Not only does the system provide organizations with predictive intelligence allowing systems to detect a potential problem before it occurs, it can also automatically respond to those problems without the need for IT’s involvement.

When IT needs to be involved, AIOps cuts through the noise by collecting data from connected resources (like sensors, cameras, other devices, and network elements). It streamlines information by reducing noise and identifies high-priority information so IT managers can focus on pressing items and not suffer from alert fatigue. In this way, AIOps provides the team with a high degree of observability of everything happening across their next-generation networks.

What Is Network Observability, and Why Is It Important?

Having the ability to observe the entire network gives IT managers a significant advantage for achieving true resiliency. Observability isn’t just about seeing what’s happening across the network; it’s about being able to use multiple data sets to quickly identify issues and fix them before they become disruptive. Instead of using only log data to track the root of a problem, organizations can leverage a combination of log data, application data, and other metrics.

Think of observability as being able to look to the left, center, and right:

The left is the past—what happened on the network recently.
The center is the present—what’s happening on the network right now.
The right is the future—what will likely happen given what’s happened before and what’s currently taking place.

What someone sees when they look to the right is informed by the wealth of past and present data.

How Is Observability Different From Traditional Network Monitoring?

Network monitoring is a reactive measure; IT managers are alerted to issues as they happen. AIOps-based observability is an anticipatory measure. Therefore, it’s more likely to prevent challenges and preserve resiliency.

Plus, today’s networks are highly complex. They consist of in-house, on-premises, and hybrid clouds, and they’re continually changing. Managing them effectively and ensuring they continue to operate as expected requires an unfiltered viewpoint.

How Does All This Tie Into Performance?

With the emergence of 5G, the prevalence of smart devices, and the prospect of long-term remote work environments, our world is more connected than ever before. A single loss in connectivity can lead to minor inconveniences (such as when a social media site goes dark) or large-scale disruptions (like those resulting from an attack on a utility company).

AIOps and observability provide significant layers of protection against these disturbances. AIOps can help anticipate downtime and proactively remediate threats. Even if a problem arises, observability can help teams identify the problem quickly and trace it back to the source so networks can remain high-performing and resilient.

Visit our website for more information on network observability.

5G Round Table Webinar Series

Transforming Network Standards with O-RAN

Aiding the DoD

The Future of 5G

Build a Robust, Layered UAS Security Framework

Gain End-to-End Observability of Hybrid 5G Networks

Turning Challenges Into Possibilities

Hurdles to Implementation

Benefits of 5G

A Positive Future

The DoD’s 5G Military Strategy

Current Developments and Relevance

Benefits of 5G Military Usage

Challenges with Incorporating 5G

The Future of Military 5G

What Is AIOps?

How Is AIOps Different From Traditional Network Monitoring?

What Is Network Observability, and Why Is It Important?

How Is Observability Different From Traditional Network Monitoring?

How Does All This Tie Into Performance?