The global 5G network infrastructure space is substantial, generating tens of billions of dollars in annual revenue. Historically, this market served a single primary customer type: communications service providers (CSPs). While CSPs continue to account for the largest share of spending, enterprises across a wide range of verticals are now exploring private 5G networks, creating a new—though still smaller—source of demand for network infrastructure.

Whether the customer is a CSP deploying a public 5G network or an enterprise building a private 5G network, all three components of a 5G network—radio access network (RAN), transport, and core/edge—are essential. Overall, 5G network infrastructure is expected to see modest growth in 2026. CSPs will continue to invest in public network infrastructure, although likely at lower levels than in prior years. Much of this investment will focus on transport and core upgrades as more CSPs transition to 5G standalone architectures.

• Why are open and virtual RAN segments positioned for stronger growth in the coming years?
• How is the expansion of the customer base beyond CSPs and public networks set to include enterprises and private networks and pave the way for growth?
• What steps can your team take to optimize growth strategies based on key industry megatrends and CSP spending across 5G infrastructure components?