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What we buy - Networks

Our Network Procurement Category is led by Rachael McCaffrey

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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:


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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
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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.
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IoT and M2M Networks

Specialized networks for connected devices.
  • NB-IoT / LTE-M.
  • LoRaWAN / Sigfox.
  • IoT Platforms and Gateways
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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Security Network

Protects our network and user data.

  • Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS).
  • DDoS Protection.
  • Identity and Access Management (IAM).
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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.