What are the Main Differences Between Dedicated Public Safety LTE Networks and the use of Commercial Cellular Networks for Public Safety?

There are two main options available for public safety broadband: dedicated public safety LTE (PS-LTE) networks and commercial cellular networks. Find the differences.

Public safety agencies around the world require reliable, secure, and high-speed broadband connectivity to support their mission-critical communications and applications. As there are many flavours of networks available, from Satellite broadband to Mesh networks and Hybrid networks, however in this article we focus on the difference between dedicated public safety LTE (PS-LTE) networks and commercial cellular networks. 

Advantages and disadvantages of dedicated PS-LTE Networks

Dedicated PS-LTE networks are designed specifically for public safety agencies and provide a dedicated, secure, and reliable broadband connection. These networks are typically built and operated by the government or a public safety agency and are not shared with commercial users.

Advantages:

• Priority and Preemption: Dedicated PS-LTE networks provide priority access and preemption capabilities, which ensure that public safety agencies have access to the network during times of emergency or high demand.
• Security: Dedicated PS-LTE networks are designed with security in mind, with encryption and other security measures to protect sensitive data.
• Reliability: Dedicated PS-LTE networks provide a high level of reliability, with redundant infrastructure and failover capabilities to ensure uninterrupted service.
• Interoperability: Dedicated PS-LTE networks are designed to be interoperable, allowing public safety agencies to communicate with each other seamlessly.

Disadvantages:

• Cost: Dedicated PS-LTE networks can be expensive to build and operate, as they require significant investment in infrastructure and maintenance.
• Coverage: Dedicated PS-LTE networks may not provide the same level of coverage as commercial networks, as they are typically focused on specific geographic areas or jurisdictions.
• Complexity: Dedicated PS-LTE networks can be complex to manage, as they require specialized expertise and resources.

Advantages and disadvantages of Commercial Cellular Public Safety Networks

Public safety agencies can also use commercial cellular networks, such as 4G LTE or 5G, for broadband connectivity. However, commercial networks are not designed to meet the specific needs of public safety, and may not provide the necessary reliability and security.

Advantages:

• Cost: Commercial cellular networks can be less expensive than dedicated PS-LTE networks, as they leverage existing infrastructure and resources.
• Coverage: Commercial cellular networks provide wide coverage, which can be beneficial for public safety agencies that need to operate in multiple jurisdictions or remote areas.
• Innovation: Commercial cellular networks are constantly evolving, with new technologies and features being developed to support a wide range of applications.

Disadvantages:

• Priority and Preemption: Commercial cellular networks do not provide the same level of priority and preemption capabilities as dedicated PS-LTE networks, which can be problematic during times of emergency or high demand.
• Security: Commercial cellular networks may not provide the same level of security as dedicated PS-LTE networks, as they are shared with commercial users and may be more susceptible to hacking and other security threats.
• Reliability: Commercial cellular networks may not provide the same level of reliability as dedicated PS-LTE networks, as they are subject to network congestion and other factors that can affect performance.
• Interoperability: Commercial cellular networks may not be interoperable with other public safety agencies or networks, which can limit communication and coordination during emergencies.

Examples:

Here are three examples of Public Safety LTE (PS-LTE) Networks that are build/in use around the world:

1. FirstNet - United States: FirstNet is a nationwide PS-LTE network in the United States that provides dedicated broadband connectivity for public safety agencies. The network is operated by AT&T and is designed to provide a secure and reliable connection for public safety communications, with features such as priority access, preemption, and encryption.
2. ESN - United Kingdom: The Emergency Services Network (ESN) is a PS-LTE network being deployed in the United Kingdom to replace the existing Airwave TETRA network. The network is being built and operated by Motorola Solutions and is designed to provide reliable and secure broadband connectivity for public safety agencies across the country.
3. Safe-Net - Australia: Safe-Net is a PS-LTE network being deployed in Australia to provide dedicated broadband connectivity for public safety agencies. The network is being built and operated by Motorola Solutions and is designed to provide a reliable and secure connection for public safety communications, with features such as priority access, preemption, and encryption. The network is currently being rolled out in several states across the country.

Some examples of Public Safety Broadband Networks provided by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs):

1. Verizon Public Safety Network - United States: Verizon provides a dedicated Public Safety Network in the United States that provides high-speed data services to public safety agencies. The network includes features such as priority access, preemption, and encryption to ensure secure and reliable communications for first responders.
2. Optus Critical Connect - Australia: Optus provides a critical communications network in Australia for public safety agencies called Critical Connect. The network includes priority access, preemption, and encryption features to ensure reliable and secure communications for emergency responders. The network also provides coverage in areas that are not served by commercial networks.
3. Swisscom Public Safety Network - Switzerland: Swisscom provides a Public Safety Network in Switzerland that includes priority access, preemption, and encryption features for public safety agencies. The network is designed to ensure secure and reliable communications for emergency responders and to provide coverage in areas that are not served by commercial networks.

Conclusion:

Dedicated PS-LTE networks and commercial cellular networks each have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to public safety broadband. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will depend on a range of factors, including cost, coverage, security, reliability, and interoperability.

Public safety agencies should carefully evaluate their options and choose the solution that best meets their specific needs and requirements.