What we buy - Networks
Our Network Procurement Category is led by Rachael McCaffrey
A word from Rachael
We buy a wide range of network products and services across a range of categories to build, operate, and maintain our infrastructure. Reliability and innovation are key to building the strong, future-ready networks our industry demands.
Our Network categories can be broadly grouped into the following key areas:
Access Network
Connects end-users to our network.- Mobile Access: 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G RAN
- Fixed Access: FTTH, DSL, Cable, Copper
- Wi-Fi Networks: Indoor & Public Hotspots
Data Centre and Cloud Infrastructure
Supports virtualization and cloud-native network functions.- NFV Infrastructure (NFVi): For hosting virtual network functions (VNFs).
- Edge Computing: For low-latency services close to the user.
- Private and Public Cloud Platforms: For scalability and service agility.
IoT and M2M Networks
Specialized networks for connected devices.- NB-IoT / LTE-M.
- LoRaWAN / Sigfox.
- IoT Platforms and Gateways
Transport Network
Carries data between different parts of our network.- Optical Transport Networks (OTN): High-capacity fibre optic links.
- Microwave and Millimetre Wave Links: For backhaul in areas where fibre is not feasible.
- Subsea Cables: Submarine cables enabling connectivity across different countries.
Network Management and Orchestration
Tools and platforms for monitoring, managing, and automating networks.- OSS/BSS Systems: Operations and business support systems.
- SDN Controllers: For software-defined networking.
- Network Orchestration Platforms: For service lifecycle management.
Network Infrastructure and Civil Works
Physical and construction elements required to deploy and support our network.- Cables & Structures (fibre, towers, poles).
- Equipment Housing (cabinets, shelters).
- Power & Safety (Electrical Supplies and backup system, grounding and related electrical services).
- Civil Works (site prep, trenching, foundations).
Core Network
Manages and routes traffic across our entire network.- IP/MPLS Networks: For routing and switching of data traffic.
- IP/MPLS Networks: For routing and switching of data traffic.
- Circuit Core (MSC): For legacy voice services.
- IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem): For VoLTE, VoWiFi, and other IP-based services.
Security Network
Protects our network and user data.- Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS).
- DDoS Protection.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM).
Consumer Devices & Services
Covers all products and services provided to end-users.- Devices: Phones, routers, set-top boxes, wearables.
- Accessories: Chargers, cases, headphones.
- SIM Products: SIM and eSIM provisioning.
- Services: Device financing, support, content subscriptions.