Azure Private 5G Core on Microsoft Azure
Azure Private 5G Core is a fully managed solution for deploying private 5G mobile networks in enterprise environments. The service is based on Azure Stack Edge and enables operating own 5G networks in factories, warehouses, campuses, or other locations, independent of public mobile networks.
The solution combines 5G core functions (User Plane Function, Control Plane) with Azure management via the Azure Portal. Organizations thereby gain full control over their network, low latencies through edge processing, and highest data security since traffic doesn’t run over public networks.
Azure Private 5G Core meets industrial requirements for reliability, security, and data sovereignty, especially important for GDPR-compliant deployments.
Typical Use Cases
Smart manufacturing: 5G connectivity for wireless production machines, AR-assisted maintenance, AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), and real-time quality control in factories.
Logistics and warehouses: Asset tracking, autonomous vehicles, drone surveillance, and high-resolution video analysis in warehouse and distribution centers.
Critical infrastructure: Private communication networks for ports, airports, power plants, or utilities with highest security requirements.
Edge computing: Low-latency IoT applications like predictive maintenance, computer vision, or autonomous robots with local data processing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Azure Private 5G Core
Do I need frequency spectrum for Private 5G?
Yes, Private 5G requires licensed or unlicensed spectrum (e.g., CBRS in USA, local 5G licenses in Germany). Azure Private 5G Core supports various frequency bands, but spectrum acquisition must be done independently.
How is this different from Public 5G or Private LTE?
Private 5G offers higher bandwidth, lower latencies (1-10ms), and more parallel connections than Private LTE. Unlike Public 5G, you have full control, highest security, and guaranteed Quality of Service without dependency on mobile operators.
What hardware is needed?
Azure Stack Edge Pro (edge device for 5G Core), 5G Radio Access Network hardware (gNB/Small Cells from partners like Nokia, Ericsson), 5G-capable SIM cards, and 5G end devices (IoT modules, smartphones, industrial devices).
How is management done?
Centrally via Azure Portal: provisioning of SIM cards, network policies, monitoring, and updates. Azure Arc enables hybrid management between edge and cloud.
What does Azure Private 5G Core cost?
Costs consist of: Azure Stack Edge hardware (approximately €5,000-10,000), Azure Private 5G Core license (individual pricing per site), SIM card management (per SIM), and RAN hardware from third parties.
Can I migrate existing networks?
Yes, Azure Private 5G Core supports Dual Connectivity, enabling gradual migration from Private LTE to 5G. Interoperability with existing LTE devices via Non-Standalone (NSA) mode.
What security features does the service offer?
End-to-end encryption, SIM-based authentication, Network Slicing for isolated traffic streams, Private DNS, integration with Azure Security Services, and physical isolation through on-premises deployment.
Alternatives
alternatives:
- provider: “aws” product: “private-5g”
- provider: “gcp” product: “distributed-cloud-edge”
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you in planning and implementing Azure Private 5G Core for industrial applications. We help with network design, hardware selection, integration, and operations.
Contact us for a non-binding consultation on Azure Private 5G Core.
