A new study by Juniper Research has found that the total number of 5G roaming connections will increase from 53 million in 2023 to 526 million by 2027.

The research highlighted two crucial solutions that will allow operators to defend their networks against a flood of data traffic from roaming subscribers: AI-based real-time analytics and roaming fraud mitigation services.

5G core networks to propel growth

The assumption is that, as 5G roamers proliferate, these new traffic analyses and anti-fraud solutions will be required to support the improved identification and authentication of roaming connections over 5G networks. However, given the increased complexity of 5G networks, current roaming analytics systems are predicted to not be adequate for tracking 5G roaming connections and the ensuing rise in mobile roaming data.

To take full advantage of these new 5G roaming services, operators must invest in 5G Next-Generation Cores (NGCs), which are highly virtualized and can more efficiently estimate traffic and connectivity. By deploying NGCs, roaming providers can better safeguard networks’ processing power and signaling capabilities amid rising levels of roaming data consumption. This will guarantee the consistent level of service necessary to draw in high-spending enterprise clients.

Roaming data growth requires new services

In addition, the report highlights that 5G NGC networks will be essential to enable operators to cope with data growth from roaming subscribers; forecasting an increase in 5G data roaming traffic by 3,500% over the next four years.

An inability to detect roaming connections that use valuable network bandwidth risks diminishing the user experience for the operator’s own subscribers. To maintain high-quality services for their subscribers, operators must invest in roaming solutions that can efficiently identify roaming connections that consume large amounts of cellular data.

Elisha Sudlow-Poole, report author

Juniper Research provides research and analytical services to the global hi-tech communications sector, providing consultancy, analyst reports and industry commentary. You can read the entire report titled “5G Roaming Strategies” here.