Sweden-based Tele2 Group has announced that it is to move its network and IT functions into the cloud as it looks ahead to future 5G mobile systems. The firm says it will use Network Function Virtualisation (NFV) to enable ‘a smarter, user-friendly, future-proof and more cost efficient internal management’. According to Tele2, the shift of technology will enable it to deliver a wider set of services to its customers within all segments, including Business, Consumer and Internet of Things (IoT). The firm said it is embracing open source as a way to speed service deployment and keep costs low, and has chosen OpenStack as the foundation for its private cloud. Its partners on the project include Canonical, Cisco and Huawei.
Niklas Sonkin, Tele2’s COO, commented: ‘This is an important step for Tele2 in further strengthening our position as a technology frontrunner. We are strong believers in 5G and are actively contributing to the evolution of 5G … Cloud and virtualisation are important building blocks in the foundation of 5G technology.’ According to TeleGeography’s GlobalComms Database, Tele2 Group has operations in nine countries in Europe and Asia: Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Croatia and Kazakhstan.