O2 UK has partnered with Microsoft to test the benefits of on-premise Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) within a private 5G network, with a focus on low latency and security.
The Proof of Concept (PoC) involves technology running on Microsoft Azure, the first Azure deployment using a UK private 5G network. It is designed to support secure data management, with all confidential data staying on premises at all times.
O2 UK will provide secure 5G network capabilities and various Industry 4.0 applications. The computing service will be delivered via Azure Private Edge Zones, bringing compute, intelligence and storage to the edge where data is created. O2 and Microsoft will also support start-ups in developing new 5G solutions through the 'Microsoft for Startups' programme.
