AT&T, Dell, and VMware have joined forces to simplify the deployment of 5G edge technology.

Their collaborative offering integrates 5G connectivity, edge computing infrastructure, and multi-cloud support into an on-demand service. This partnership aims to streamline the adoption of 5G technology in enterprises.

AT&T, Dell, and VMware have joined forces to simplify the deployment of 5G edge technology. Their collaborative offering integrates 5G connectivity, edge computing infrastructure, and multi-cloud support into an on-demand service. This partnership aims to streamline the adoption of 5G technology in enterprises.

The solution, named AT&T MEC with Dell Apex, combines the strengths of each company. AT&T provides the network connectivity, while Dell contributes the hardware and offers an “as-a-service” capability through Dell Apex Private Cloud. VMware’s virtualization and multi-cloud enablement software are preloaded on Dell’s Private Cloud VxRail HCI servers.

One of the key advantages of this on-demand service is its scalability. Companies can easily scale up or down based on their changing needs. Douglas Lieberman, senior director of global solutions co-creation services at Dell, highlighted this feature, stating that enterprises can order additional Dell edge processing with a simple click, allowing for quick delivery and implementation in a matter of weeks.

The AT&T MEC with Dell Apex solution is particularly suitable for use cases such as automated guided vehicles, IoT sensors, warehouse and factory robots, and augmented reality experiences. These applications require real-time data collection and benefit from bringing business applications closer to where the data is processed.

Lieberman acknowledged that while Wi-Fi is the standard wireless technology for most enterprises, it operates on unlicensed spectrum and offers a plug-and-play experience. In contrast, 5G utilizes licensed spectrum and cellular technology, providing inherent stability, predictable latencies, higher reliability, and a broader range with fewer access points compared to Wi-Fi.

However, deploying 5G networks and MEC solutions entails complexities related to security, scalability, and cloud application integration. Many enterprises may lack the necessary skills to manage both connectivity and compute within a 5G MEC environment.

AT&T MEC with Dell Apex aims to overcome these barriers and facilitate 5G edge innovation. The solution provides pre-built infrastructure, connectivity, and protection, enabling enterprises to scale their operations with ease. It caters to various industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, utilities, healthcare, and more.

The services are currently available through Dell’s Apex program, offered as-a-service with pricing dependent on the equipment deployment.

In another telecom-related development, Dell has partnered with Swedish telecom vendor Ericsson for a Cloud RAN project. Dell will provide its PowerEdge servers to support Ericsson’s Cloud RAN customers. This collaboration aims to offer customers more flexibility in choosing their infrastructure provider and avoid vendor lock-in. Dell’s XR8000 and XR5610 PowerEdge servers are specifically designed for telecom, Open RAN, and mobile edge computing workloads, making them well-suited for the Cloud RAN environment.