Core networks

The mobile core controls the mobile network. It manages subscriber authentication, mobility, policy and charging as well as the routing of voice and data traffic. It connects users and devices to services across radio, transport and IT domains, helping ensure the right performance, security and experience. As networks evolve to 5G standalone, the core becomes more service-based, programmable and analytics-driven, enabling new consumer and enterprise services.

Telecommunication providers can deploy the mobile core in several ways, including private cloud environments in their own data centers, edge locations and regional facilities. Some are adopting hybrid models that combine on-premises infrastructure with public cloud resources to balance control, latency, compliance and cost. Some are also turning to SaaS models, where the vendor delivers core software lifecycle management and operations as a subscribed service while the telecommunication provider retains ownership of customer relationships and services.

In 5G standalone, voice is delivered using Voice over New Radio (VoNR), which runs natively over the 5G core and 5G radio, using an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) core for session control. Telecommunication providers operate VoNR alongside VoLTE (4G voice) to maintain service continuity where 5G voice is still evolving. This allows the introduction of new voice experiences, such as IMS Data Channel (also known as New Calling) with a cloud native core.

A cloud-native mobile core disaggregates network functions into microservices that can be deployed, scaled and updated independently. This improves agility, resilience and operational efficiency, helping telecommunication providers introduce new services faster and with less risk. It also provides the foundation for multi-cloud deployment, lifecycle automation and large-scale exposure of network capabilities through APIs.

Core SaaS can help telecommunication providers accelerate deployment and reduce operational complexity by shifting much of the design, integration and lifecycle management to the vendor. Managing the core directly offers greater control over architecture, customization and tooling, but typically requires deeper cloud and DevOps expertise. Key considerations include available skills, regulatory requirements, speed to market, cost model and the strategic importance of owning the core platform.

AI is changing the mobile core in two ways. First, AI can be embedded into the core and its operations to improve automation, assurance, security and efficiency. Second, the 5G core can provide the high-performance, deterministic connectivity needed to support AI applications across cloud, edge and enterprise environments. Together, these roles help telecommunication providers run more autonomous networks while opening new services and monetization opportunities.