Install 5G Network Infrastructure

This standard defines the competencies required to install and configure 5G network infrastructure, including base station deployment, network equipment configuration, and inter-network integration. It covers the deployment of advanced 5G technologies such as massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output), beamforming, and installation tools to enhance network efficiency and scalability.

The standard also includes site selection, network optimisation, and predictive maintenance to improve deployment accuracy, reduce costs, and enhance long-term reliability. Emphasis is placed on real-world deployment strategies, efficient resource utilisation, and compliance with security, regulatory, and environmental standards to ensure sustainable, high-performance 5G networks.

This standard is designed for professionals responsible for installing and deploying 5G network infrastructure as part of their job role.

1. Assess site feasibility and installation requirements by analysing surveys, signal propagation, coverage needs, and environmental constraints.
2. Develop deployment plans, including timelines, resource allocation, risk assessments, and contingency strategies for efficient and scalable installations.
3. Use simulation tools to optimise coverage, capacity, and network performance, reducing deployment time and improving reliability.
4. Install and configure 5G network infrastructure, including gNB base stations, antennas, and backhaul components, maintaining seamless integration with existing systems.
5. Integrate and optimise the 5G RAN (Radio Access Network) with core network elements, cloud platforms, and legacy systems, enabling interoperability, automation, and scalable management.
6. Configure and fine-tune hardware and software components, maintaining compatibility, peak performance, and troubleshooting for rapid fault detection and resolution.
7. Implement and manage network slicing for mobile broadband, IoT (Internet of Things), and low-latency applications, optimising traffic segmentation and resource allocation.
8. Validate network interoperability through handover tests between 5G and legacy networks and integration with IoT, edge computing, and cloud-based management systems.
9. Utilise Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualisation (NFV) to enhance network agility, automation, and service scalability.
   
   

1. Site surveys and feasibility analysis, including site selection, signal propagation, environmental factors, infrastructure readiness, power availability, and backhaul connectivity.
2. Risk management techniques for 5G deployment, including risk identification, mitigation strategies, contingency planning, and awareness of factors affecting timelines and budgets.
3. Technical specifications and configurations of 5G hardware, including antenna types, backhaul links, mounting, alignment, and power requirements.
4. Installation and safety protocols for 5G base stations and antennas, including working at height, RF (Radio Frequency) emissions, and adherence to regulatory standards.
5. Energy-efficient deployment techniques, including lifecycle assessments and strategies to reduce the environmental impact of 5G installations.
6. Inter-network integration strategies, including how 5G interoperates with existing 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and legacy networks to ensure seamless handovers and optimal performance.
7. Industry standard 5G use cases, including Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC), and Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC).
8. Network slicing principles, including architecture, dynamic slice allocation, and its role in mobile broadband, IoT, and low-latency applications.
9. Interoperability standards and protocols, including 5G New Radio (NR), 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) mobile broadband standards, and integration with IoT and edge computing platforms.
10. Configuration and performance tuning of 5G hardware and software, including gNB (Next Generation Node B), routers, switches, and base station controllers.
11. Software configuration tools used in 5G networks and the importance of firmware/software compatibility across network components.
12. Performance optimisation techniques, including signal strength tuning, load balancing, interference management, and AI-driven simulation tools.
13. Handover processes and protocols, including testing seamless transitions between 5G and legacy networks, and evaluating performance metrics such as latency, packet loss, and throughput.
14. SDN (Software-Defined Networking) and NFV (Network Function Virtualisation) architectures, including how they improve network flexibility, scalability, and automation.
15. Configuration and management of SDN/NFV tools, including virtualised network functions (VNFs), dynamic resource allocation, and controller-based automation.
16. Integration of SDN/NFV with traditional network infrastructure to support real-time network optimisation and service scalability.
17. Security best practices in 5G networks, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention, encryption, and access control mechanisms to safeguard network integrity.