Ericsson has introduced a private version of its NetCloud solution, designed for government agencies, public security and defense organizations, and operators of critical infrastructure like energy, water, and transport. This version differs from the standard NetCloud, which is hosted in Ericsson’s own cloud. Instead, the private version can be deployed in a client's on-premise data center or by a local cloud provider, ensuring compliance with national regulations on data privacy and sovereignty. This allows organizations to manage their 5G and wireless networks independently, without relying on public cloud services, addressing growing concerns around data control, security, and uninterrupted operations. The private NetCloud solution, available from October, enables organizations to centrally manage Ericsson Cradlepoint 5G and LTE routers. This centralized platform simplifies the integration, configuration, and monitoring of large networks with thousands of devices, while keeping network data within the organization’s own infrastructure. It also supports the deployment of extended cellular networks to connect remote locations, vehicles, or smart city devices. Ericsson highlights the significance of this development, especially in France, where digital sovereignty and infrastructure resilience are becoming central to government and service provider strategies. According to Pankaj Malhotra, head of product and engineering for Enterprise Wireless Solutions, the solution provides advanced security and encryption, enhancing trust for governments and organizations. This announcement comes at a critical time for the telecom industry, which has become a major target for cyberattacks. In recent months, major French telecom providers like SFR, Free, Orange, and Bouygues Telecom have faced significant cyber threats. France’s National Agency for Information System Security (Anssi) has warned that espionage targeting telecom operators is increasing. Meanwhile, the European Union is revising its Cybersecurity Act to potentially ban telecom equipment from countries deemed high-risk, particularly Chinese manufacturers like Huawei and ZTE. In this context, American cloud providers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are pushing to help telecom operators transition to cloud-based network infrastructures. Despite these developments, private 5G networks have yet to fully realize their potential. Competitors like Nokia, Cisco, Fortinet, and HPE Aruba offer their own private 5G solutions, targeting different markets. Some focus on large-scale coverage for sectors like transportation and public security, while others cater to specific sites such as factories or airports. These private networks offer guaranteed performance and security by operating independently of public networks. However, challenges remain. A recent study by Market Data Forecast points to high costs, including the purchase or leasing of spectrum licenses, which can make private 5G unaffordable for smaller businesses. As a result, the widespread adoption of private 5G is still in its early stages.