Reference architectures — macro 5G, private 5G, FWA, IoT

The Four Canonical Reference Architectures

Four telecom buyer archetypes drive distinct reference architectures. Macro 5G — the canonical large-operator deployment serving millions of mobile subscribers across a country or region. Centralized 5GC with regional UPF distribution, full feature set, integrated with existing 4G EPC during migration. Private 5G — enterprise-deployed network on-premises or in a private campus, typically for industrial automation, hospitals, ports, or universities. NFs run at-site or at a partner cloud edge, integrated with IT/OT systems. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) — fixed broadband alternative to fiber,…