New technology strengthens resilience of Canada’s largest and best 5G network
During a near-sold-out Toronto Blue Jays game on Canada Day, Rogers Communications, in collaboration with network partner Ericsson, successfully tested 5G Cloud Radio Access Network (Cloud RAN) technology, marking the first time this industry-leading technology has been deployed on a commercial network at a live event in Canada.
The technology builds on the company’s nationwide standalone 5G core network, which Rogers launched for the first time in 2021. The implementation of Cloud RAN technology will be fundamental as Rogers evolves towards its next-generation network.
“Cloud-native technologies are a key component of next-generation wireless networks, and we are proud to have completed Canada’s first deployment of 5G Cloud RAN technology at a major live event,” said Ron MacKenzie, chief technology and information officer at Rogers. “We continue to invest in our nationwide radio access network, including innovative cloud-native technologies, to provide both consumer and business customers with the most reliable and consistent network services nationwide.”
Cloud-native technology enables Rogers to rapidly respond to wireless consumer and enterprise market demands and lay the foundation for advancements in 5G technology, improving network reliability and resiliency, and ultimately improving energy efficiency.
This initial trial deployment is part of Rogers’ commitment to providing the best network and global technology to Canadians. Through nationwide network investments, Rogers has built Canada’s largest and most reliable 5G network, currently covering more than 2,300 communities. In 2023, the company was named Canada’s best wireless network for the fifth consecutive year by Umlaut, the global leader in independent network benchmarking. Today’s test of Cloud RAN technology is the latest in a series of 5G wireless innovations for Canadians. Earlier this year, Rogers successfully tested 5G network slicing technology in collaboration with Ericsson, Rogers’ national technology partner, marking Canada’s first nationwide live test of this industry-leading technology.
