Three UK has made a significant decision to partner with Ericsson for the development of its next-generation cloud-native core network. This collaboration marks a milestone as it will create Europe’s largest core network, expanding capacity more than threefold to 9 terabits per second (Tbps).
The growing demand for services like streaming, gaming, and home broadband has led to a surge in data usage on Three’s network. In December 2024, data traffic surpassed 2 Tbps, just two years after achieving 1 Tbps. This increase highlights the rapid evolution in digital consumption, further underlined by a report from Enders Analysis. It indicates that Three customers used an average of 31.5 GB monthly, surpassing double the national average and representing an 18% year-on-year increase.
The new core infrastructure, driven by Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core technology and Cloud Native Infrastructure, aims to bring several benefits. Positioned to enhance performance by reducing latency as it moves closer to users, the network offers operational excellence. It allows scalable capacity to accommodate future data demands, boosts network stability by minimizing downtime, and provides advanced insights for better traffic management. Furthermore, the technology facilitates seamless software upgrades and enhances energy efficiency using innovative advancements.
Transitioning to this advanced core network has already started in Three’s data centers. Initial operations are slated to begin this year, with a gradual migration process to be carried out in the following years.
Iain Milligan, Three’s chief network officer, emphasized the significance of this shift: “The last few years have seen a tsunami of data growth… Our new core network with Ericsson ensures we are able to support our customers’ data usage over the medium and long-term.”
Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK and Ireland, expressed enthusiasm: “This project is a significant milestone in our collaboration… to meet the ever-growing data demands of its customers.”
