In these areas, such as extremely isolated mine sites or agricultural properties, if you need comprehensive connectivity today your options are either to implement WiFi Calling, a Private 5G network, or a Place-Based 5G Network.
Option 1. WiFi Calling
This is the quickest and cheapest route, but involves the most friction for users and IT managers.
WiFi calling is a protocol that runs on a users phone that will analyse the user's WiFi connection and if it meets strict quality criteria phone calls will be routed over the internet similar to making a call via WhatsApp or Messenger.
The downside is each users phone must be authenticated with the WiFi system - problematic in an enterprise environment as it carries with it a host of cyber security risks, and the practical challenges of managing tens or hundreds of new devices and their data demands.
WiFi is also limited in range and coordination, meaning quality deteriorates in busy areas and signal weakens sharply with obstacles and walls. Areas most prone to staff injury/accidents - bathrooms, car parks, stairwells, entrances/exits, are also rarely places where WiFi is implemented.
Option 2. Private 5G
For true enterprise-grade connectivity no matter where you are, Private 5G is the best possible solution. This is your own 5G network covering the areas and buildings you choose. While that might sound like a lot of work, these systems are now more affordable and simpler to implement than ever before, with self-contained "5G-in-a-box" solutions as small as a carry-case available.
Private 5G can cover both inside your buildings and across your outdoor operations areas, even establishing kilometres of connectivity if required. By licencing spectrum for your company's exclusive use, you'll get dedicated and predictable data speeds, through the security of your own self-contained network.
Because Private 5G means issuing your own SIM cards, your phone can use its Backup Calling capability (sometimes called Cross-SIM Calling) to use your normal Telstra/Optus/TPG phone number to call via the Private 5G's data connection.
We work with our specialist Private 5G partner company who will take care of the process for you.
Option 3. Place-Based 5G
If having your own company 5G network sounds too involved, the middle-of-the-road option is a Place-Based 5G network. A Place-Based Network Operator (PBNO) runs their own 5G network and arranges coverage to be extended to your location.
This type of system can feel a bit more comfortable as it's no more challenging than signing up with a new provider. You'll be issued SIM cards by the network operator which you can use to call within and beyond the network, just like you normally would. You can use your same phone numbers by either porting across to their network totally, or by using Backup Calling to continue using your number through your existing mobile provider.
We'll plumb the PBNO's network into your building, they coexist alongside any other network we install.