A 5G Mobile Private Network (MPN) is a dedicated 5G network designed to serve a specific location, such as a business site or campus. 5G MPN offers greater control, enhanced security, and more reliable performance. It is exclusively for the use of the organisation it serves and is ideal for environments where secure, high-performance connectivity is essential—such as factories, power stations, and hospitals.
With a 5G MPN, organisations benefit from faster speeds, greater bandwidth, and ultra-low latency. This enables seamless data transfer, improved operational visibility, and better-informed, data-driven decision-making.
One key advantage of a 5G MPN is the ability for businesses to keep their usage data on-their own premises, giving them better access to their own information and additional reassurance with regards to security. These networks can also be deployed in remote areas to support critical operations—such as connecting emergency response teams in real time.
A 5G MPN is also highly mobile. For example, Vodafone equipped the Irish rugby team with an MPN installed in a van, enabling the use of drones and AI to analyse player performance in real time. This mobile network could travel with the team—whether playing in Ireland or as far afield as France for the World Cup. Read the full article from Vodafone here.
Additionally, Vodafone 5G has been implemented at Ford’s Electrified Powertrain in Manufacturing Engineering (E:PRiME) facility in Dunton, Essex. Initially set to transform the production process of electric batteries, other potential applications of the 5G MPN for Ford are vast, from untethered robots and automated guided vehicles (AGV) to complete repetitive tasks, to AI systems to monitor and run predicative maintenance and engineers able to assist remotely using augmented reality.
Chris White, Chief Engineer in Battery Manufacturing Engineering for Ford Motor Company, has commented on using Vodafone’s 5G MPN: “5G presents the opportunity to transform the speed of launch and flexibility of present manufacturing facilities, moving us towards tomorrow’s plants connected to remote expert support and artificial intelligence.”
One piece of the transformation puzzle
5G MPNs are a crucial part of the broader digital transformation taking place across industries, particularly for those looking to adopt artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, or immersive experiences.
Sectors such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, and energy are constantly seeking to unlock new potential. Many emerging technologies—like AI-driven automation, lag-free augmented and virtual reality, autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), automated factories, precision robotics, remotely assisted surgeries, and drones—require the high-speed, low-latency connectivity that only a 5G MPN can provide. By adopting 5G MPNs, businesses are laying the groundwork for the next wave of innovation and staying on the cutting edge of their industries.
England’s Connected Heartland is working on two implementation projects. Find out more about our projects here: