Microsoft has strengthened the 5G credentials of its Azure public cloud platform with the acquisition of Metaswitch Networks. Metaswitch Networks is a specialist in virtualized network software and voice, data and communications services for operators. Its technology and expertise will be used to expand Microsoft Azure's telecommunications portfolio as demand for basic 5G cloud-based services increases. 5G promises ultra-fast speeds, enhanced capacity, and ultra-low latency that will enable a multitude of new business, consumer, and government applications. This is an important opportunity for mobile operators to increase and diversify their sources of income.
Microsoft 5G
However, 5G requires operators to reorganize networks away from the centralized and legacy core infrastructure and towards the cloud. By virtualizing network functions, operators can deploy new services faster, dynamically allocate resources where they are needed most, and move processing capabilities closer to the point of collection. The cloud also helps operators reduce capital and operating costs. In addition to the proposed new potential revenue streams, 5G will also lower the cost per bit of transmission. Microsoft says the acquisition of Metaswitch Networks, as well as the previous purchase of Affirmed Networks, will help it better serve carrier customers and partner with telecommunications equipment manufacturers. "The convergence of cloud and communications networks represents a unique opportunity for Microsoft to serve carriers around the world through continued investments in Azure, adding additional depth to our hyperscale cloud infrastructure with the specialized software required to perform virtualized communication functions, applications and networks," said Yoused Kahalidi, manager of Azure Networking at Microsoft. "As the industry moves to 5G, operators will have the opportunity to further virtualize their core networks and move toward an increasingly cloud-native future." Microsoft will continue to meet customers where they are, working with the industry as carriers and network equipment providers build out their own operations. "