Ericsson unveils wireless-first architecture for AI era

Ericsson has announced a new wireless-first branch architecture designed to enhance agility and scalability in networking for branch locations.

This new framework is anchored by the Ericsson Cradlepoint E400, the first enterprise appliance to amalgamate 3GPP Release 17 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and embedded eSIM/dual-SIM capabilities. It further includes new LAN switches and Wi-Fi 6 access points which expand the capacity of small and medium office local area networks (LANs) without adding complexity, all under a unified management system.

The Ericsson NetCloud Manager is a vital component of this architecture, offering AI-driven operations, centralised eSIM provisioning, and capabilities such as SD-WAN and zero-trust security. It facilitates access to 5G Advanced network slices, which are crucial for improving the predictability and performance of business-critical applications.

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

This move aligns with predictions by research firm IDC, who forecast that by 2026, 90 per cent of enterprises will incorporate generative AI into their connectivity strategy. This prediction highlights the escalating need for secure, scalable, and easily managed networks.

Roy Chua, Founder and Principal at AvidThink, mentioned: "Lean IT teams look for integrated networking and security experiences that remove complexity and provide built-in intelligence to remove operational burden, streamline efficiency and enable proactive management. Ericsson's announcement today addresses requirements from these customers and enables them to take advantage of the latest cellular advances."

The key components of Ericsson's architecture include the Cradlepoint E400, which serves as the central routing and security appliance. This device integrates support for modern networking technologies such as LEO satellite WANs and facilitates scalable connectivity. The architecture also includes Cradlepoint LAN switches and access points that augment existing LAN solutions and unify them under the Ericsson NetCloud Manager.

According to Nick Gregory, Director, Global OEM Partnerships at KORE, "We're excited to bring the Ericsson Cradlepoint E400 into the KORE portfolio of Ericsson devices delivering a true wireless-first branch solution with Wi-Fi 7, Network Slicing, and eSim with investment protection built in. The addition of Ericsson's new LAN switches and access points rounds out a powerful offering for distributed enterprises."

Ericsson's solution also offers enhanced security and performance. Technologies such as SD-WAN and link bonding optimise traffic across various connections, while network slicing provides isolated, secure 5G environments tailored for specific usage scenarios, thus enhancing reliability for business-critical operations.

This latest architecture from Ericsson is aimed at preparing enterprises for AI-driven innovation by providing flexible and secure connectivity solutions. The solutions are available for immediate use by businesses worldwide, aiming to support AI applications with scalable, secure, and resilient wireless connectivity.