Talking with Peo Lehto, Head of Packet Core for Digital Services at Ericsson

In this episode of Transmissions from Tomorrow, Pio Leto, the head of product line Packet Core in the business area of digital services at Ericsson, discusses the ongoing impact of virtualization on packet core networks. The conversation delves into the significance of virtualization technology, the transition to 5G, and the potential for network slicing and continuous integration and continuous deployment (CICD) in the telecommunications industry.

Virtualization and NFV

Pio Leto highlights the significant impact of virtualization and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) on packet core networks. As data usage continues to increase, there is a growing need to expand packet core networks. The appeal of building packet core networks using virtualization technology is evident across service providers globally.

Introducing Pio Leto

Pio Leto, the head of product line Packet Core at Ericsson Digital, provides insight into his background and academic journey, which has led him to his current role. With a background in electrical engineering and industrial purchasing and marketing, Pio Leto brings a diverse skill set to his role in product management.

Transitioning to Virtualization

The conversation shifts to the transition to virtualization and the impact on network operations. Pio Leto emphasizes the benefits of continuous integration and continuous deployment, highlighting the potential for improved quality, time to market, and operational savings in network upgrades and enhancements.

Network Slicing and Virtualization

As virtualization technology continues to evolve, the concept of network slicing emerges as a significant opportunity. By separating software from hardware through virtualization, service providers can optimize resources and create logical network slices for different services and customers. This approach offers higher flexibility, agility, and cost efficiency in network management.

The Telco Space and Virtualization

The discussion delves into the context of virtualization in the telco space, emphasizing the importance of agnosticity and the ability to mix and match software from different vendors on the same infrastructure. Pio Leto highlights the transition to hybrid networks, where existing infrastructure can be leveraged alongside virtualization technology, allowing for a gradual transformation.

Digital Transformation and 5G

Pio Leto emphasizes the role of Packet Core as a necessary enabler for addressing new business opportunities and use cases in the transition to 5G. The conversation underscores the importance of building enabling capabilities in core networks to effectively leverage the potential of 5G technology.

The Future of Network Capabilities

Pio Leto discusses the potential future trends in network capabilities, emphasizing the importance of low latency services enabled by 5G technology and virtualization. He also highlights the need for building flexible network capabilities and embracing new technologies to accommodate the rapid growth of new services.

Conclusion

The conversation with Pio Leto provides valuable insights into the ongoing impact of virtualization on packet core networks and the broader implications for the telecommunications industry. As service providers continue to embrace virtualization, network slicing, and continuous integration, the potential for enhanced capabilities and new business opportunities becomes increasingly apparent.

As the telecommunications industry undergoes a digital transformation, the role of virtualization and network slicing in enabling 5G technology and addressing new use cases is crucial for driving innovation and growth.

Stay tuned for more updates on the digital transformation of telecommunications and the evolving landscape of network technologies.

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