When considering communications systems for your business, you may come across the terms “Private LTE” and “Public LTE.” They sound pretty similar, and both ensure people have communications solutions, so you may wonder what the difference is.Metropolitan Communications is here to dig into that question. Our communications experts have experience in dealing with private LTE and public LTE and can make a recommendation for your specific situation.
What Are Private LTE and Public LTE?
Public LTE is a commercial system run by mobile network operators, such as Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile, and AT&T, for use by the general public.
This is the most common form of LTE and is used worldwide by most people. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops can access public LTE systems.
Private LTE is a wireless communication service designed specifically for private networks. Private organizations or governments own these and are only accessed by people with pre-existing permission. You may need specific hardware, software, or passwords to access a private LTE network.
Challenges of Public LTE
Governments often license public LTE networks and, therefore, must adhere to specific regulations and the rules of the corporation that runs the network.
Since this network is public, it must also be available to a vast audience. This means many people must share the public LTE network’s resources. If there’s a crisis or disruption to the public network, this can cause mass communication disruptions.
Public LTE networks may also only be available where public companies deem it worthwhile to include them in their coverage. Less populated or difficult-to-get-to areas may be left out of public coverage, limiting communication capabilities.
Challenges of Private LTE
Private LTE networks use dedicated spectrums. These spectrums may only sometimes be available if many other private LTE networks are already using that spectrum.
This can include needing to use an unlicensed spectrum or hop onto an existing spectrum, with permission from whoever owns it.
Benefits of Public LTE
Public LTE networks are designed to handle a lot of traffic and users. This means they’re optimized for higher bandwidth and uptime even when there’s much traffic.
You can also access public LTE quite easily by using a smartphone, laptop, or tablet capable of connecting to a network through an established corporation. No personal infrastructure is required.
Benefits of Private LTE
Private LTE networks
allow you to protect data and communications that happen through your business. Since only specific people can access the network, you eliminate additional risks with data that can occur when anyone can use the same network.
Private LTE also runs on its own infrastructure and equipment. You can install it seamlessly into your already established communications equipment and continue to use it as your business scales and changes in the future.
You have control over what happens to your private LTE network—where the most resources go and when maintenance happens, which can be during a less active period at your business.
Learn More About Private LTE Networks and How They Can Work for Your Business Today
If you believe a private LTE network may be the right fit for your communication needs, contact Metropolitan Communications.
We’ll create a communications solution that addresses your business’s specific needs and ensures your team has reliable and consistent communication.
Get started by contacting us today.
