Fierce Network Research

REPORT TOPICs

Check out the topic abstracts below and talk to your Fierce Network Research business development partner about building out a report. We can also work with you to create custom research.

5G & WIRELESS

The Challenges and Benefits of 5G Advanced

5G Advanced, the next phase of 5G, brings both challenges and opportunities for the telecom industry. Integrating it with existing infrastructure demands significant investment, particularly for features like enhanced mobile broadband and ultra-reliable low-latency communication. Additionally, managing spectrum and ensuring cybersecurity pose ongoing hurdles. This research report will discuss the substantial benefits, including faster data speeds, lower latency and improved network efficiency. Analysis will also cover how it can support innovations in areas such as smart cities, augmented reality and autonomous vehicles.

Making the Business Case for 5G Fixed Wireless Access

Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) isn’t a new concept. Due to its ability to offer broadband to those in underserved areas, it is considered one of the best ways to connect the unconnected consumer. However, the consumer is one side of the equation, the limitations experienced in signal propagation and the spectrum being utilized meant FWA wasn’t necessarily a competitive solution for the enterprise customer. However, with recent advancements in 5G technology and more spectrum being made available, the FWA market is flourishing once again and is poised to be one of the best use cases for communications service providers (CSPs) to monetize their 5G investments by tapping into a wider variety of markets. This report will discuss how recent innovations in 5G technology have created a real opportunity for CSPs to capitalize on the 5G FWA business case, and what needs to be done to make it happen. 

Beyond the Hype: 5G Practical Business Cases

5G’s initial rollouts were inflated by hype, promising revolutionary applications like self-driving cars and remote surgery. The reality has been more grounded, with significant infrastructure costs making 5G a substantial investment for telcos. But 5G is beginning to show its true potential, particularly through network slicing and the creation of private networks that can augment or even replace traditional Wi-Fi systems. In this report, we will explore how telcos and enterprises are leveraging 5G for enhanced connectivity solutions that offer both improved performance and new revenue opportunities. The report will also highlight the strategic advantages of 5G in creating more efficient and innovative business environments. This analysis serves as a vital guide for IT decision-makers looking to navigate the evolving 5G landscape.

Expanding 5G Revenue Opportunites with NaaS

Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) refers to a cloud-based architecture whereby users can easily operate their network without the burden of ownership or maintenance of the network infrastructure itself. Not only does NaaS provide communication service providers (CSPs) an opportunity to offer a solution to provision a service that meets the rapid and ranging needs of the enterprise, but the exposure of the network capabilities via APIs means enterprises are in a unique position to utilize network data to explore new revenue opportunities, a service many enterprises would be willing to pay a premium for. This report looks at NaaS models as well as explores how such models create a monetization opportunity for CSPs and enterprises alike. ​

Have LEO Satellites Finally Found Their Wings?

Low-earth-orbiting (LEO) satellites provide connectivity in hard-to-reach areas. Interest from CSPs in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) is nothing new, with much of the previous discussion focusing on integration with terrestrial networks as a part of wider 5G deployment plans. Recent innovations in satellite design have reduced payload weight, meaning launch costs are cheap. Additionally, the FCC approved rules for direct-to-device communications, which could expand monetization opportunities. Is 2024 the year NTNs finally take off?  This report will find out. ​

Private 5G in Action – Transforming Vertical Industries Through Advanced Connectivity 

As 5G adoption accelerates, vertical industries are leveraging its capabilities to drive digital transformation. This report investigates how ultra-reliable low-latency communication, enhanced mobile broadband, and massive IoT connectivity are reshaping key sectors, enabling revolutionary changes across vertical industries such as manufacturing, hospitals and other healthcare, ports, logistics, mining, agriculture, transportation, energy, and retail. The study examines the role of edge computing, IoT, and AI in maximizing 5G’s potential, alongside the challenges of adoption and strategies for overcoming them. Learn out to optimize deployment strategies and maximize ROI, while meeting security, spectrum management, and interoperability challenges. ​

Unlocking the Future of Connectivity with eSIM

As the demand for seamless, flexible, and efficient connectivity grows, eSIM (embedded SIM) is emerging as a pivotal innovation poised to redefine how operators and consumers interact with mobile networks. In this research report, we will delve into the fundamentals of eSIM technology, exploring its advantages over traditional SIM cards. Readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of how eSIM simplifies the process of switching carriers, enhances device security, and supports the proliferation of IoT devices by enabling remote provisioning and management. 

6G

Beyond Speed: The Transformative Promise of 6G Networks

As 5G adoption accelerates, vertical industries are leveraging its capabilities to drive digital transformation. This report investigates how ultra-reliable low-latency communication, enhanced mobile broadband, and massive IoT connectivity are reshaping key sectors, enabling revolutionary changes across vertical industries such as manufacturing, hospitals and other healthcare, ports, logistics, mining, agriculture, transportation, energy, and retail. The study examines the role of edge computing, IoT, and AI in maximizing 5G’s potential, alongside the challenges of adoption and strategies for overcoming them. Learn out to optimize deployment strategies and maximize ROI, while meeting security, spectrum management, and interoperability challenges. ​

AI

Telco AI: The Business Cases That Matter

This report will delve into the transformative impact of AI to optimize operations and enhance customer relations. We’ll describe how AI-driven predictive maintenance prevents equipment failures, minimizing downtime and reducing costs, while advanced algorithms personalize customer interactions, elevating satisfaction and loyalty. We’ll explore AI-driven network management’s capability to dynamically adjust settings to ensure optimal performance, significantly cutting operational expenses and—eventually—delivering “smart cloud” networks that operate without human intervention. Moreover, we’ll assess how robust AI tools can detect and prevent fraud, and automate routine customer service and administrative tasks, freeing resources for strategic initiatives and enabling targeted marketing to boost revenue. This topic will equip telecom leaders with actionable strategies and proven AI applications to drive efficiency, secure data, and capitalize on new business opportunities, thereby transforming traditional challenges into avenues for growth and innovation. 

Is AI Introducing Security Risks into Telecom Networks?

AI-Powered Network Optimization in Telco Operations

Explore the transformative impact of AI on network optimization in the communications sector. This topic delves into real-world applications, showcasing how AI-driven solutions enhance operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and pave the way for a more resilient and responsive communications infrastructure. Specific topics include network operations, AI voice, AI for OSS/BSS, AI security and more. 

Exploring Data Center Transformation in the Rise of AI-Driven Industries

With the world undergoing a momentum of digital transformation not seen before, many organizations are adopting AI technologies such as predictive maintenance and data-driven analysis to become more efficient and profitable. It is largely expected that the AI industry will reach an impressive value of $407 billion by 2027. Data centers are fundamental in AI infrastructure, and the additional power and storage capacities required to support the rise of AI applications will need to be addressed to foster in the era of AI-driven applications. To manage these additional service demands, data center operators need to consider ways to enhance data center capacity and efficiency. For instance, what role could advanced distribution units and high-efficiency power systems play in not only meeting additional energy requirements but simultaneously ensuring sustainability goals are also met? What innovations in cooling system methodologies are required to cope with additional heat generated by AI demands, and how can AI itself be utilized in the data center to ensure they are running efficiently? This report covers the essential innovations required to cope with the demands of an AI-driven world and see what progress is being made.

Building a Network Fit for AI’s Ferocious Data Appetite

This report explores how advanced network designs deliver the performance needed to unlock AI business value and optimize the utilization of precious GPU resources. These designs are enabled by SDN frameworks that deliver high throughput and sophisticated multi-tenant traffic management. Fierce Network Research will explore how cloud-native architectures offer the necessary scalability and flexibility for AI demands. 

Customer-centric Telco: Revolutionizing Services with AI

BROADBAND

U.S. Rural Broadband Strategies: Access Choice, Funding Availability and Workforce Management 

U.S. states are working on delivering on their five-year plans alongside communications service providers to deliver broadband to underserved communities across the nation. However, there are many challenges due to market demands, funding availability and workforce shortages thanks to the widening skills gap. From developing a local workforce to deliver federally funded networks on time and within budget to understanding the economic impact on local communities and reskilled workers, this research report looks at how service providers are balancing rural and remote deployments with the need for connectivity, bandwidth and economic returns. U.S. Rural Broadband Strategies also examines funding availability, workforce management and the role of technology in assisting with affordability and open access.

Municipal Broadband Deployment Strategies

U.S. municipal networks are gaining momentum as local authorities and wider geographic areas build their own broadband infrastructure. A recent Community Networks survey found that over 900 municipal networks run either through cooperative agreements or solely community-owned operations across the U.S. — with more in development or planning. The reason for municipal networks is clear — a community can deploy a network specific to the needs of its constituents without having to wait for a major or local ISP. However, the necessary investment and financing, market research and technical and industry knowledge needed before even tackling their deployment can act as a barrier to deployment. The Municipal Broadband Deployment Strategies report explores key issues such as: economic and logistical challenges and considerations for municipal-run networks; understanding the legal framework for municipal networks; pursuing the deployment of a public broadband network; partnership models and financing; public funding mechanisms and their take on municipal broadband; and subscription models, pricing models and uptake.

Broadband Funding Mechanisms – BEAD and Beyond

Broadband expansion in the U.S. is fueled by initiatives like the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), targeting unserved and underserved areas. Complementing BEAD are the FCC’s Universal Service Fund (USF), the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and the USDA’s ReConnect Program, all addressing digital equity and rural connectivity. State-level programs and public-private partnerships further enhance local solutions. This report examines these mechanisms, their challenges — including regulatory hurdles and sustainability — and emerging trends like infrastructure sharing, highlighting their role in fostering economic growth and bridging the digital divide.​

Moving Beyond Fiber – Changing Broadband Delivery Methods in the U.S.

This exclusive research report explores the primary methods of broadband delivery in the U.S., focusing on fiber optics, cable, fixed wireless, satellite and emerging technologies. Fiber-optic networks, recognized for their unmatched speed and reliability, are expanding rapidly, driven by government funding and private investments. Cable broadband remains widely used, leveraging existing infrastructure, though it faces limitations in rural areas. Fixed wireless solutions, often deployed in remote regions, provide flexibility and cost efficiency, while satellite broadband, led by providers like Starlink and Viasat, extends connectivity to even the most isolated areas despite latency challenges. Emerging technologies such as low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and 5G are further diversifying broadband options. The report examines each method’s advantages, limitations, and suitability for diverse geographic and demographic contexts, highlighting the need for a hybrid approach to achieve universal broadband access and bridge the digital divide in the U.S. ​

CLOUD INFRASTRUCTURE

Overcoming Challenges of Multi-Cloud Integration and Interoperability 

Multi-cloud deployment can deliver benefits including enhanced flexibility and scalability, avoiding vendor lock-in, and more. However, enterprises face tough challenges integrating and ensuring application interoperability across multiple cloud providers and siloed business functions. Enterprises need to ensure consistent data access to ensure efficient operations and avoid costly setbacks. This report discusses how enterprises can overcome technical challenges and use the right tools to ensure seamless multi-cloud integration and interoperability. ​

DATA CENTER TECHNOLOGIES

Exploring Data Center Transformation in the Rise of AI-Driven Industries

With the world undergoing a momentum of digital transformation not seen before, many organizations are adopting AI technologies such as predictive maintenance and data-driven analysis to become more efficient and profitable. It is largely expected that the AI industry will reach an impressive value of $407 billion by 2027. Data centers are fundamental in AI infrastructure, and the additional power and storage capacities required to support the rise of AI applications will need to be addressed to foster in the era of AI-driven applications. To manage these additional service demands, data center operators need to consider ways to enhance data center capacity and efficiency. For instance, what role could advanced distribution units and high-efficiency power systems play in not only meeting additional energy requirements but simultaneously ensuring sustainability goals are also met? What innovations in cooling system methodologies are required to cope with additional heat generated by AI demands, and how can AI itself be utilized in the data center to ensure they are running efficiently? This report covers the essential innovations required to cope with the demands of an AI-driven world and see what progress is being made. 

Exploring Alternative Power Sources for Data Centers

It’s no secret that the world is experiencing a climate crisis. In the advent of rising global temperatures and severe weather becoming more commonplace, it is the social responsibility of industries to ensure that they are operating in the most energy-efficient ways possible, and data center operators are no exception. What is perhaps more difficult for data center operators is that their operations are very energy-rich, with some reports suggesting it accounts for 1.5% of global energy consumption. As such, data center operators must explore alternative renewable energy sources that can meet current and future energy demands, while simultaneously aligning themselves with net-zero targets. This report covers how alternative energy sources, such as wind, hydro, nuclear and solar could be used to power data centers and address key concerns such as meeting increased energy demands due to increased capacity requirements, and how data center operators can transition to more renewable sources. 

Innovative Liquid Cooling for Future-Proof Data Centers: Ensuring Efficiency and Sustainability 

As data centers evolve to meet escalating computational demands, the thermal challenges posed by densely packed silicon chips become increasingly prominent. This topic explores the paradigm shift towards liquid cooling solutions as a pivotal strategy for future-proofing data centers. By delving into the principles of liquid cooling and its application to silicon chip cooling, we unravel the potential of this technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability in data center operations. Through a comprehensive analysis of current trends and emerging technologies, readers will gain insights into the transformative impact of liquid cooling on data center design and management. From optimizing performance to mitigating environmental impact, this webinar offers a roadmap for leveraging liquid cooling as a cornerstone for the next generation of data centers, ensuring scalability, resilience, and environmental responsibility in the face of evolving computational demands. 

TELCO APIS

Telco APIs: Unlocking a New Wave of Operator Value

As telcos face increasing pressure to unlock new revenue streams, APIs present a powerful tool for innovation and growth. By exposing network functions through APIs, operators can enable third-party developers to create new applications and services, driving value beyond traditional telecom offerings. This report explores how telcos can build successful API ecosystems to serve diverse industries, foster collaboration with partners, and deliver enhanced services like security, network slicing, and real-time analytics. It also examines the key challenges—such as integration, security, and standardization—that operators must overcome to capitalize on the API economy and accelerate digital transformation.

TEST & MEASUREMENT

AI-Driven Network Testing: Transforming Service Assurance

Testing for the Zero-Touch Network: Beyond Traditional KPIs

*Topics and dates subject to change 

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