Ericsson unveils wireless-first branch for AI-ready enterprises

Ericsson has introduced a wireless-first branch architecture designed to enhance agility and scalability in networking for branch locations.

The new architecture is intended to meet the growing demand for higher-bandwidth, business-critical operations led by artificial intelligence by combining multiple technologies including wide-area network (WAN) connectivity, local-area network (LAN) switching, network slicing, and zero-trust security, all managed through a unified platform.

At the heart of the architecture is the Ericsson Cradlepoint E400, touted as the first enterprise appliance to incorporate 3GPP Release 17 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and embedded eSIM/dual-SIM capabilities. Ericsson is also introducing new LAN switches and Wi-Fi 7 access points, which aim to extend LAN capacity for small and medium-sized offices without increasing complexity, all under the management of the Ericsson NetCloud Manager.

NetCloud Manager provides capabilities such as AI-driven operations, centralised eSIM provisioning, software-defined WAN (SD-WAN), zero-trust security, and access to 5G Advanced network slices. According to IDC, by 2026, 90 per cent of enterprises are expected to integrate generative AI into their connectivity strategies, highlighting the need for networks that are secure, scalable, and easily managed.

Pankaj Malhotra, Head of Enterprise Networking and Security, Enterprise Wireless Solutions at Ericsson, said: "With the increased speed and decreased latency of 5G, businesses are now looking at 5G as not only a viable alternative to wires but also to innovate and transform their business. At Ericsson, we are removing the complexities of LAN architecture, security, cellular management, and multi-WAN optimization with an integrated architecture under a single management platform."

The Cradlepoint E400 serves as the central routing and security device in the new architecture, supporting 3GPP Release 17 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite WANs to provide high-performance connectivity for branch locations in a wide range of environments. The new Cradlepoint LAN switches and access points are managed through NetCloud Manager, which also enables centralised control and provisioning of eSIM and dual-SIM capabilities for remote profile configuration, seamless carrier switching, and streamlined deployment for IT departments with limited resources.

Ericsson NetCloud SASE, SD-WAN, and 5G network slicing technologies further enhance consistent performance and security across different WAN links. While SD-WAN, link bonding, and secure access service edge (SASE) features optimise traffic across wired, cellular, and satellite connections, network slicing delivers secure, isolated 5G network slices with parameters tailored to specific business requirements.

Roy Chua, Founder and Principal at AvidThink, commented on the announcement: "Lean IT teams look for integrated networking and security experiences that remove complexity and provide built-in intelligence to remove operational burden, streamline efficiency and enable proactive management. Ericsson's announcement today addresses requirements from these customers and enables them to take advantage of the latest cellular advances."

These features are designed to help organisations with distributed sites, such as insurance offices using virtual experts or remote healthcare clinics deploying computer vision, to maintain always-on connectivity for essential operations and improved customer experiences.

Nick Gregory, Director, Global OEM Partnerships at KORE, said: "We're excited to bring the Ericsson Cradlepoint E400 into the KORE portfolio of Ericsson devices delivering a true wireless-first branchsolution with Wi-Fi 7, Network Slicing, and eSim with investment protection built in. The addition of Ericsson's new LAN switches and access points rounds out a powerful offering for distributed enterprises."

Ericsson stated that all products associated with the wireless-first branch architecture are available immediately.