Rogers Tests 5G Network Slicing in Canada

Rogers Communications has successfully tested 5G network slicing technology, marking the first nationwide live test of this industry-leading technology in Canada.

Network slicing is a 5G network technology that changes how the network operates – moving from one single lane to multiple lanes for wireless traffic. Each slice or ‘lane’ of the network enhances performance for specific 5G applications by offering tailored features; whether it needs low latency, high precision location, high speed or high capacity.

For example, Public Safety agencies will have their own dedicated network slice for constant, clear communication with first responders in emergencies. At a concert, a business can use one network slice for low-latency to live stream the show, and another slice with high capacity to provide congestion-free mobile connections for fans at the event.

In partnership with Ericsson, Rogers tested 5G network slicing technology in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, on the company’s national standalone 5G core network launched in 2022, the first in Canada.

“As the only carrier that owns a truly national radio access network, we have an unmatched advantage with network slicing to offer customers consistency and reliability for mission critical applications from coast to coast,” said Ron McKenzie, Chief Technology and Information Officer, Rogers. “Network slicing will advance services for public safety, residential and business sectors, further improving our daily lives by providing even more focused and reliable support for essential applications.”

Rogers will use network slicing this year to offer a dedicated lane for first responders to have priority on the network. The company will also use this technology to separate fixed and mobile traffic on its national 5G network and accelerate the expansion of 5G Wireless Home Internet to more rural and remote communities across Canada. This will proactively optimize and dedicate traffic flows to ensure a more consistent and reliable service for both residential and mobile users.

5G network slicing is part of a multi-year partnership between Rogers and Ericsson. Recently extended, the partnership sees Ericsson continue to provide Rogers with industry-leading 5G solutions.

Today’s announcement is part of Rogers commitment to bring Canadians the best networks and foster a made-in-Canada 5G ecosystem. Through its national network investments, Rogers is Canada’s largest and most reliable 5G network, which now covers over 2,200 communities. In 2023, the company was awarded the best wireless network in Canada for the fifth year in a row by umlaut, a global leader in independent network benchmarking. The company also continues to invest in its 5G research partnerships with the University of British Columbia and the University of Waterloo.