Emma Mak • Staff Writer

It’s paramount for IT leaders to consider and plan for technologies that will best future proof their companies. With the Windows 10 EOS date approaching on October 14, 2025, and Windows 11’s new hardware requirements, now is an ideal time for IT leaders to evaluate the benefits of 5G and 5G-capable devices.

While Wi-Fi 6 offers interesting opportunities and is often used alongside 5G, it is fixed and generally location-specific. In contrast, 5G provides extensive capabilities within large buildings, across campuses, cities, and rural areas.

The health and education sectors, in particular, stand to gain significant benefits from 5G’s reliable high-speed connectivity. However, 5G also benefits other sectors, such as retail, and it can empower most companies with its greater bandwidth, faster speeds, lower latency, and far-reaching coverage, which promise productivity, scalability, and innovation — virtually anywhere.

Beyond Smartphones: The Benefits of 5G-Capable Devices

Many of us are accustomed to 5G-capable smartphones, but with the average worker using two or more devices for their work, it just makes sense to consider how 5G-capable laptops and tablets can transform various aspects of business operations. The advantages include:

Streamlined Remote Work

• High-speed internet from virtually anywhere: 5G-enabled laptops streamline remote workflows. Employees can access high-speed internet from virtually anywhere, enabling quicker downloads, uploads, and real-time data processing and ensuring seamless collaboration and productivity regardless of location.
• Faster data speeds without interruption: According to a report by Ericsson, 5G networks can provide up to 100 times faster data speeds than 4G, making it easier for teams to share large files, conduct video conferences, and utilize cloud-based applications without interruptions. 
• Low Latency: The reduced latency of 5G means faster response times, which is crucial for applications requiring real-time interaction, such as video conferencing and remote control of machinery.

Improved Connectivity

• Greater Device Density: 5G can support a much higher number of connected devices per square kilometer, making it ideal for environments with a high density of IoT devices, such as smart cities and industrial automation.
• Seamless Mobility: 5G provides consistent and reliable connectivity even when moving between locations, ensuring uninterrupted service for mobile users.

Support for Innovative Applications and Devices

• Augmented and Virtual Reality: 5G’s high bandwidth and low latency make it possible to deliver immersive AR and VR experiences, which can be used in various fields such as education, training, entertainment, and remote assistance.
• IoT and Smart Devices: The ability to connect a vast number of devices efficiently supports the growth of IoT ecosystems, enabling smarter homes, cities, and industries.

Efficiency, Scalability, and Innovation

• Operational Efficiency: Businesses can leverage 5G to implement advanced automation and monitoring systems, improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
• Scalability: 5G networks can easily scale to accommodate growing demands for data and connectivity, supporting the expansion of businesses and services.
• Future-Proofing: Investing in 5G-capable devices ensures that businesses and individuals are prepared for future technological advancements and can take advantage of new applications as they emerge.

Improved Business Continuity

• Reliability of 5G: The reliability of 5G networks ensures minimal downtime and robust business continuity. Disruptions can lead to significant financial losses, so having a dependable connection is crucial.
• Disaster Recovery Plans: Enterprises can deploy 5G-enabled laptops as part of their disaster recovery plans, ensuring that operations continue smoothly even in the event of traditional network failures. 

Considerations for Adopting 5G-Enabled Devices

As 5G networks become more widespread, their impact on business operations will continue to grow. From enabling edge computing to facilitating AI-driven insights, 5G will be a catalyst for innovation and transformation across nearly every industry. Overall, 5G-capable devices offer a transformative potential that can drive productivity, innovation, and efficiency across various sectors. As you evaluate adoption of 5G-enabled devices for your fleet, some considerations include:

Cost Implications

While the benefits of 5G-enabled laptops are substantial, organizations must consider the associated costs. These devices typically come at a premium compared to their non-5G counterparts. However, the long-term gains in productivity and efficiency can outweigh the initial investment. 

Network Availability

Another critical factor is the availability of 5G networks. Organizations should assess the coverage in their specific regions to ensure they can fully leverage the capabilities of 5G-enabled laptops. Collaborating with network providers such as T-Mobile for Business to understand deployment timelines and plans can aid in making informed decisions. 

Future-Proof with Compucom and T-Mobile for Business

The possibilities of 5G-enabled devices are expansive, offering significant benefits for healthcare, education, retail, and many other sectors. Investing in this technology equips organizations to stay at the forefront of industry advancements, fostering innovation, and unlocking new levels of efficiency and productivity. Ready to explore how 5G and 5G-enabled devices can transform your operations? Reach out to us now to explore our comprehensive 5G-enabled solutions provided by Compucom in partnership with T-Mobile for Business.

The post Windows 10 EOS: Should You Consider 5G-Enabled Windows 11 Laptops? appeared first on Compucom.

Emma Mak • Staff Writer

Educational institutions have an unprecedented opportunity to revolutionize how they deliver knowledge, collaborate, and manage campus operations. From virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to real-time collaboration and comprehensive campus coverage, 5G is set to transform the educational experience.

The Current Educational Landscape

Traditional educational systems face issues such as poor connectivity, limited access to resources, and the lack of interactive learning tools — all of which have hindered possibilities for the educational experience. The growing reliance on digital learning platforms has highlighted the urgent need for a robust and reliable network — one that 5G is poised to provide.

The Promise of 5G

Enhanced Learning Experiences

Imagine a classroom where students can engage with virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) content seamlessly. With 5G, students could take a virtual tour of ancient Rome, dissect a frog in a virtual 3D environment, or even participate in immersive historical reenactments — all in real-time and high definition. VR and AR can make learning more interactive and engaging, providing immersive experiences. With 5G’s ultra-low latency and high-speed data transfer, these technologies can be seamlessly integrated into the curriculum.

Real-Time Collaboration

Gone are the days when group projects meant coordinating schedules to meet in person. 5G enables real-time collaboration across the globe. Students can work on shared documents, participate in video conferences, and use collaborative tools without any lag. This opens up opportunities for international partnerships and cross-cultural learning experiences, making education more inclusive and diverse.

Access to Vast Online Resources

One of 5G’s most significant advantages is its ability to provide quick and reliable access to vast online resources. Whether they’re accessing research papers, streaming educational videos, or downloading large datasets, students can do it all without any hiccups.

Campus Coverage

A university campus can span several buildings and acres of land, making consistent network coverage a challenge with older technologies. 5G can provide robust, uninterrupted connectivity across the entire campus, ensuring that students and faculty can stay connected whether they’re in a lecture hall, the library, or even the campus café. This reliable coverage can support various applications, from online learning platforms to campus security systems.

Overcoming Obstacles

Cost and Infrastructure

One of the main concerns about implementing 5G in educational institutions is the cost. Smaller or underfunded schools may find it challenging to bear the initial investment. However, it’s essential to view this as a long-term investment in the future of education. Public-private partnerships, such as those between educational institutions and telecom companies like T-Mobile, can help alleviate these financial burdens.

Privacy and Cybersecurity

With great connectivity comes great responsibility. The implementation of 5G must be accompanied by robust cybersecurity measures to protect the privacy and data security of students and faculty. Educational institutions should invest in advanced security protocols and continuously update their systems to fend off potential threats.

The Non-Negotiability of 5G

In the global race for innovation and competitiveness, education cannot afford to lag. The adoption of 5G is essential for preparing students for the future workforce. Advanced digital skills, real-time problem-solving abilities, and global collaboration have become critical.

Dr. Michelle Weise, author of “Long Life Learning,” makes the point that “No matter our current station, we will all become working learners, always flexing between working and learning, or juggling both at the same time — looping continuously in and out of learning and work and navigating more job transitions than we ever dreamed possible.” Advanced technologies such as 5G that enhance learning opportunities will likely play a pivotal role in facilitating continuous skill development for the modern workforce.

Partner with Compucom and T-Mobile for Business

The potential of 5G to revolutionize higher education is immense. From enhancing learning experiences with VR/AR to enabling real-time collaboration and providing access to vast online resources, 5G is set to redefine the educational landscape. While there are challenges to overcome, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial hurdles. It’s time for educational institutions, policymakers, and technology providers to join forces and make the future of learning a reality.

Take proactive steps now. Integrate 5G into your educational framework and prepare your students for a future that demands innovation and adaptability with Compucom and T-Mobile for Business.

The post Revolutionizing Learning with 5G: A New Era for Education appeared first on Compucom.

Emma Mak • Staff Writer

5G, the next generation of public mobile networks, offers faster connectivity, lower latency, and greater capacity. With higher connection densities — up to 250X more devices than 4G/LTE — and the ability to provide retail stores with their own custom networks, 5G is more attractive for businesses and enterprises than previous mobile technologies. 

But what do 5G’s impressive capabilities mean for retail? It enables other technologies like cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and real-time analytics. This new technological landscape promises improved consumer experiences, streamlined backend operations, and real-time data insights to inform business decisions. 

The Promise of 5G in Retail

Challenges and Concerns

Security and Privacy Issues

Security and privacy are significant concerns regarding 5G adoption. With more devices connected to the network, the risk of cyberattacks increases. Retailers must implement robust security measures to protect customer data and ensure their networks are secure.

Integration with Existing Systems

Integrating 5G with existing systems can be complex and time-consuming. Retailers must ensure that their current infrastructure can support 5G and that all systems are compatible with the new technology.

The Future of Retail with 5G

Predictions for Retail Technology

As 5G becomes more widespread, we can expect to see significant advancements in retail technology. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences will become more common, offering customers immersive shopping experiences. AI-powered analytics will provide deeper insights into customer behavior, enabling retailers to make more informed decisions.

Blurring the Lines Between Online and Offline Shopping

5G technology will allow the creation of truly immersive experiences, blurring the lines between physical and online shopping and creating heightened convenience for consumers. This convergence of online and offline shopping will create a seamless experience for customers, whether shopping from their homes or visiting a physical store.

Recommendations and Next Steps

Preparing for 5G Integration

Retail and IT leaders should start preparing for 5G integration now. This includes conducting a thorough assessment of current infrastructure, identifying areas that can benefit from 5G, and developing a roadmap for implementation.

Investing in Secure Networks

Security should be a top priority when adopting 5G technology. Retailers must invest in secure networks and implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect customer data and prevent cyberattacks.

Training and Development

Training and development are crucial for the successful integration of 5G. Retailers should invest in training programs to ensure their employees are well-equipped to handle the new technology and maximize its potential.

Partner with Compucom and T-Mobile for Business

The promise of 5G in retail is immense, offering opportunities to enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency, and stay ahead of the competition. However, to fully leverage the potential of 5G, retailers must address challenges such as security issues, and integration with existing systems. By preparing now and investing in the right technologies and training, retail leaders can position their businesses for success in the future.

Ready to explore the potential of 5G for your retail business? Start your digital transformation with expert guidance and tailored solutions from Compucom and T-Mobile for Business. Together, we can shape the future of retail.

The post How 5G is Revolutionizing the Retail Landscape appeared first on Compucom.

Emma Mak • Staff Writer

The current pace of technological change is relentless. As market trends shift and customer demands grow, businesses need to adapt rapidly or risk falling behind. CIOs and IT leaders must anticipate these challenges and proactively address them.

At this year’s CIO 100 Symposium and Awards in Colorado Springs, Colorado, these leaders will come to network, share their successful strategies and technology solutions, and address the workplace challenges they all face.

For example, today’s employees want flexibility and the ability to be productive wherever they work, whether in the office, on the go, or enjoying fresh air outdoors. Meeting these expectations requires companies to strategically source, integrate, and support cost-effective technology solutions that provide an excellent digital employee experience (DEX).

Of course, the challenges for CIOs don’t end there. This is where data-driven insights create a substantial advantage for CIOs.

Become Data-Driven

• Driving Business Enablement with Digital Insights and Improved User Experience: Data-driven insights empower IT leaders to identify inefficiencies and opportunities in real time. This allows for strategic decision-making that enhances business processes and user experiences. By leveraging advanced analytics and AI, organizations can tailor their technology solutions to better serve employees and customers.

• Optimizing IT Operations through Improved Instrumentation, Operational Intelligence, and Hyper-Automation: Today’s enterprises require robust IT operations that can adapt to changing demands. Improved instrumentation and operational intelligence provide the necessary visibility into IT systems, enabling teams to proactively manage issues before they impact the business. Hyper-automation further streamlines processes, reducing the burden on IT staff and allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives.

• Improving IT Culture and Smarts to Meet the Challenges of Today’s Distributed Workforce: A strong IT culture is vital for managing a distributed workforce. By fostering an environment of continuous learning and collaboration, IT leaders can enhance the collective technical skills of their teams and overcome the challenges of a remote or hybrid workplace. Compucom has adopted a “GoFastIT” culture, focused on harnessing creativity and innovation to rapidly further differentiate our services and solutions. We’ve designated ourselves “customer one” as we enhance our capabilities in offering full lifecycle observability (FLO) as part of our services.

• Fast Tracking AI Enablement for the Enterprise Digital Worker: Artificial intelligence is transforming the way businesses operate. Fast-tracking AI enablement helps organizations unlock new levels of productivity and efficiency. AI-powered tools and platforms provide the foundation for smarter decision-making, predictive analytics, and automated workflows, all of which contribute to a more agile and resilient business.

The Benefits of Data-Driven IT Operations and DEX

• Reduced Impact of Technology Issues: Proactive monitoring and management of IT systems minimize the impact of technology issues on the business. This ensures a smoother operation and reduces disruptions for employees and customers.

• Improved Employee Engagement and Retention: A positive digital employee experience boosts engagement and retention. Employees who have access to the right tools and resources are more productive and satisfied with their work environment.

• Experience-Driven IT Service Enhancements: By focusing on the user experience, IT teams can deliver service enhancements that directly contribute to business value. This includes developing intuitive, user-friendly interfaces and leveraging AI to provide personalized support.

• Lower Technology Acquisition Costs: Data-driven insights help organizations optimize their technology investments, reducing acquisition costs and overall total cost of ownership (TCO). This results in significant cost savings and a higher return on investment (ROI).

Conclusion

In a world where technological complexity continues to grow, data-driven insights help companies maintain a competitive edge. Leveraging advanced analytics, AI, and proactive IT management can help your organization enhance the digital employee experience and optimize your operations.

We look forward to sharing our insights on harnessing the power of data-driven insights for IT operations and DEX at our pre-symposium roundtable and then settling in to hear the many executive speakers and celebrate the award winners at this year’s CIO 100 Symposium and Awards.

The post Data-Driven Insights for IT Operations and DEX: Our CIO-100 Roundtable appeared first on Compucom.

Emma Mak • Staff Writer

With the rapid pace of technological advancements, once-futuristic ideas are now enticingly within our grasp, providing innovative solutions to revolutionize various business functions. Here, we’ll explore the top emerging technologies in 2024 that are poised to transform the enterprise landscape.

1. Private and Hybrid 5G Networks

Enhancing Connectivity

Private and hybrid 5G networks are gaining traction as enterprise companies seek more control over their connectivity solutions. Unlike public 5G, private networks provide dedicated bandwidth, enhanced security, and customizable solutions tailored to specific organizational needs. With faster speeds and lower latency, 5G is set to unlock new possibilities in various industries.

Industry-specific strategies:

• Retail: Implement private 5G to enable real-time inventory management and enhance the customer experience with personalized digital signage.
• Finance: Use dedicated networks for secure transactions and data analytics, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while minimizing latency.
• Healthcare: Leverage private 5G for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, allowing for quick data exchange and maintaining patient privacy.

Benefits:

• Remote Work: 5G supports high-quality video conferencing and real-time collaboration tools, making remote work more efficient and effective.
• Enhanced Mobile Connectivity: 5G enables seamless connectivity for mobile workforces, ensuring productivity on the go.
• IoT Integration: The high bandwidth and low latency of 5G make it ideal for connecting a vast number of IoT devices, facilitating smarter operations.

2. IoT Security

Securing the Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) continues to evolve, bringing new innovations that enhance connectivity and automation across industries. IoT devices collect and share data, enabling smarter decision-making and more efficient operations. With the proliferation of IoT devices, security is a paramount concern.

IoT security is a cybersecurity strategy designed to protect IoT devices and the vulnerable networks they connect to from cyber-attacks. This can be challenging because IoT devices lack built-in security, transfer data over the internet unencrypted, and operate undetected by standard cybersecurity systems.

The importance of IoT devices across industries:

• Predictive Maintenance: IoT sensors monitor equipment health in real-time, predicting failures before they occur and reducing downtime.
• Operational Efficiency: Connected devices streamline operations by automating routine tasks and providing real-time insights.
• Customer Experience: IoT enhances customer experience by enabling personalized services and products tailored to individual needs.

Strategies for IoT security:

• End-to-End Encryption: Implementing strong encryption protocols to protect data at rest and in transit.
• Device Authentication: Ensuring that only authorized devices can access the network.
• Regular Updates: Keeping firmware and software up to date to mitigate vulnerabilities.

3. Smart Spaces

Future of Work and Living

Smart spaces integrate technology into physical environments. These spaces are designed to improve interaction between humans and technology, making environments more adaptive, efficient, and user-friendly.

Industry-specific strategies:

• Retail: Use smart spaces to enhance customer engagement through interactive displays and tailored shopping experiences.
• Finance: Create smart office environments that enhance collaboration and optimize workspace to improve productivity among teams.
• Healthcare: Design facilities with smart technologies for monitoring patient flow and automating administrative tasks, improving operational efficiency.

Key features:

• Enhanced Collaboration: Smart offices use technology to improve collaboration, from booking meeting rooms to integrating virtual and in-person meetings seamlessly.
• IoT Integration: Sensors and devices communicate to optimize lighting, heating, and security.
• Automation: Smart buildings can automate routine tasks, such as managing energy consumption or scheduling maintenance.

4. Digital Twins

Bridging the Physical and Digital Worlds

Digital twins are digital replicas of physical assets, processes, or systems that allow organizations to simulate, predict, and optimize performance in real-time. Mckinsey describes them as “a laboratory in which nearly any organization can optimize its most precious resource — information — to continually push the boundaries of what it can accomplish.” Gartner’s Emerging Tech Impact Radar highlights digital twins as a key technology for enhancing competitive edge and operational efficiency.

Industry-specific strategies:

• Retail: Develop digital twins of store layouts to test and optimize customer flow, enabling data-driven decisions that enhance the shopping experience.
• Finance: Create digital replicas of financial processes to simulate market changes, improving risk assessments and strategic planning.
• Healthcare: Utilize digital twins of patients to tailor treatment plans and monitor health outcomes, leading to more personalized and effective care.

Key features:

• Enhanced Predictive Analytics: By analyzing data trends, digital twins can forecast maintenance needs or operational disruptions, helping to mitigate risks.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous data flows allow for instantaneous updates and insights, supporting proactive management decisions.
• Simulation Models: Organizations can run ‘what-if’ scenarios to understand potential impacts before implementing changes in the real world.

5. AI in Everything

The Game Changer

Generative AI has moved from the research labs into the commercialization phase, transforming business and service models. Unlike traditional AI that relies on pre-programmed responses, generative AI creates new content — from text to images and videos — by learning from existing data. This technology is revolutionizing knowledge work and enhancing efficiency. From customer service to supply chain management, AI is driving efficiency and innovation across the board.

Why it matters:

• Customer Service: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 support, improving customer satisfaction and reducing operational costs.
• Human Resources: AI streamlines recruitment processes by scanning resumes and predicting candidate success, saving valuable time for HR teams.
• Predictive Analytics: AI algorithms analyze historical data to forecast trends, helping businesses make informed decisions.
• Design and Prototyping: AI-driven design tools can generate multiple design prototypes, speeding up development timelines and fostering creativity.
• Revolutionizing IT Operations: AIOps embodies the seamless integration of AI within traditional IT operations, driving efficiency and enabling organizations to harness data for informed decision-making and improved service delivery.

Conclusion

With rapidly evolving breakthroughs in the IT landscape, enterprise companies now have unprecedented opportunities to enhance efficiency, gain insights, and maintain a competitive edge. By staying informed about these emerging technologies, businesses can strategically integrate them into their operations, driving growth and innovation.

Ready to take your enterprise to the next level? Our experts can help you set up your IT operations so you’re ready to harness the power of emerging technologies.

The post 5 Emerging Technologies for the Enterprise in 2024 appeared first on Compucom.

Nancy Outcalt • Sr. Account Executive

At the beginning of each year, we attend two important healthcare conferences, ViVE and HIMSS. These lively events allow us to come together with a dedicated community of healthcare thought leaders, connect with our existing and future customers, and learn what healthcare providers are prioritizing for the upcoming year.

2024 is an exciting time. A rapid surge in digital transformation over the past few years, spurred by the necessity of dealing with 2020 and the ensuing rise of patient expectations — mixed with innovations such as 5G, cloud technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) — means that revolutionary improvements in healthcare delivery are not far away.

As I reflect on the many interesting speakers, exhibits, and discussions from ViVE and HIMSS, my main takeaway was the three main goals healthcare providers are focused on for 2024:

• Realizing the full benefits of AI to revolutionize healthcare
• Enhancing the digital user experience for clinicians and patients
• Enabling remote patient care 

Realizing the Full Benefits of AI to Revolutionize Healthcare  

Both ViVE and HIMSS spotlighted AI’s transformative potential in healthcare. The future holds promising advancements in improved patient outcomes and operational efficiency. From aiding personalized treatment and revolutionizing cancer treatment and surgical procedures to more practical applications such as transforming healthcare payment systems, the term AI was on everyone’s lips.

Nancy Outcalt and Marc Caponegro, Compucom Sr. Account Executives

As a managed services provider (MSP), we were excited to talk to healthcare leaders about the benefits of AI to their staff’s digital experience and its ability to optimize IT operations. Our experience and automation platform combines Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps) and Digital Experience Management (XM) to drive transformation, innovation, and continuous process improvement throughout your IT environment. From increasing reliability and performance of devices to faster and more accurate root cause analysis for infrastructure issues, we help ease the burden on IT teams and help healthcare providers go beyond the buzzword to real-world AI benefits.

Enhancing the Digital User Experience for Healthcare Staff and Patients

Ongoing workforce shortages and staff burnout were addressed at both ViVE and HIMSS. With ViVE 2024 making nursing leaders a focal point. Interactions with technology shouldn’t add to the burden healthcare workers face. When staff have reliable tablets, smartphones, and laptops, can stay connected to an optimized network, and have technical support when they need it, they have more time to focus on what matters – their patients.

Compucom’s XM collects useful user experience data, such as endpoint telemetry, service and support metrics, event sensors, targeted surveys, and user sentiment analysis. We generate performance indicators from the data, which are then analyzed against our four dimensions of a successful digital workplace: making sure workers are technology-enabled, self-sufficient, well-supported, and have workplace flexibility. We then measure and improve our services against these dimensions.

Technology failures exacerbate workplace stress. Having XM to monitor digital employee experiences can identify pain points before they become an issue for healthcare staff, lowering stress levels.  

Enabling Remote Patient Care

Ensuring people in remote regions receive the same quality of clinical services as those in urban areas is why there was a big focus on enabling remote patient care at the conferences.  

Now that 5G has rolled out, it is starting to revolutionize remote patient care. Telemedicine has faced limitations due to slow internet connections. 5G’s capabilities allow for improved communication between clinicians and patients with smoother video calls. Remote patient monitoring opens the potential for doctors to access real-time data from monitoring equipment (such as heart monitors) from patients in their homes.  

5G phones are now mainstream, and every year, more and more 5G native devices are released. Samsung and Apple offer 5G tablets, and 5G laptops are becoming increasingly available, with Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung all offering them as an option.

We were excited to discuss our recent strategic partnership with T-Mobile for Business Advanced Network Industry Solutions with attendees at the conferences. As healthcare tech leaders investigate 5G private networks to prepare for the future of healthcare, device readiness is a major consideration, and our technology sourcing and device services can help.  

Exciting Times for Healthcare

I enjoyed connecting with healthcare IT leaders attending HIMSS and ViVE this year — it was clear that innovation is alive and thriving in healthcare. We are seeing some amazing technological advances that will dramatically improve healthcare access equality and patient outcomes. Advancements that could only be dreamed of are finally coming to fruition. At Compucom, we look forward to partnering with healthcare providers to enable this new reality. 

The post Exciting Times in Healthcare: Digital Innovation Takes Center Stage at HIMSS and ViVE 2024 appeared first on Compucom.

Emma Mak • Staff Writer

Healthcare urgently needs reliable, secure, and consistent connectivity. Disparities in rural versus suburban care, surging rates of chronic illness, and an aging population are just some of the reasons it’s critical to enhance healthcare efficiency and accessibility.

5G (the fifth-generation mobile network) has finally rolled out, and it’s spurring exciting healthcare innovations. Like a freeway with more lanes, 5G wireless cellular technology has higher capacity — and the potential to hit download speeds and ultra-low latency approaching that of a wired connection.  

The Benefits and Possibilities 

A hospital campus can be massive, with millions of square feet and multiple buildings. Ideally, clinicians can maintain network connectivity without dead spots as they move within facilities and from building to building — 5G networking solutions have this capability. The ability of 5G to transmit large amounts of data quickly and reliably means improvement for existing applications but also drives a lot of potential new use cases:

• Think of seamless video communication between doctors and patients without lag or buffering.
• Picture simulation of real-world situations such as surgeries, emergencies, or diagnoses in immersive AR/VR environments, providing better training opportunities with lower cost and less risk for a wider audience. 
• Imagine the real-time transfer of vital signs data from ambulance paramedics to hospital critical care staff or detailed pictures and HD videos from clinical equipment to a remote clinician for diagnosis.

Today’s workers often use up to four smart devices, which quickly adds up when multiplied by the number of hospital staff. The Internet of Things (IoT) is already big in the healthcare industry, with wearable devices and connected medical equipment helping to monitor patients and collect data. All these devices can make for a crowded network. With 5G’s increase in bandwidth, a massive number of high-speed devices can be connected. 

5G Public and Private Networks 

Public 5G networks, owned and operated by carriers, are generally available to everyone; they offer wider coverage and lower costs but don’t offer the same level of control and security as private networks.  

Privacy and security are top concerns in healthcare. Standalone dedicated on-premises networks isolated from public networks are one solution. Private 5G networks can be optimized for specific use cases and offer control, such as prioritizing network traffic to ensure bandwidth for critical applications. Another solution is using network slicing to create a virtual private instance (slice) of a service provider’s public network.  

• Group the alerts – for example, if the EHR system experiences a network outage that affects multiple servers and applications, AIOps groups all the alerts related to the network outage into one incident.
• Filter out irrelevant alerts, such as those expected due to routine maintenance or testing activities for the EHR system.
• Prioritize incidents based on their urgency, importance, or business impact. If the EHR system has some incidents that affect patient safety or privacy, such as data loss or breach, AIOps prioritizes these incidents and assigns them a critical status.

By using AIOps to group related alerts using event correlation, the healthcare organization successfully reduces alert fatigue and improves incident management for their EHR system.

5G Hybrid: Making 5G Fit Healthcare Use Cases 

Hybrid 5G networks use a mix of public and private infrastructure, allowing organizations to benefit from the strengths of both. For example, specific critical use cases could use the private network, while the public network could handle the less sensitive functions.

An example of a 5G hybrid network for healthcare has been developed at Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH). BCH originally wanted to upgrade its Wi-Fi capabilities; with a footprint of over 19 buildings and 3 million square feet (about the area of a large shopping mall), they chose a 5G environment to provide reliable connectivity anywhere within its system. Mission-critical applications were moved from Wi-Fi to 5G.  

Now, BCH’s internal secure network extends beyond its walls. As clinicians move between facilities, where before they would have lost Wi-Fi, they can now maintain their connection with the 5G network. The solution also provides connection across all their campuses and to remote practitioners. 

Compucom’s Recent Partnership with T-Mobile 

As tech leaders investigate 5G private networks to prepare for the future of healthcare, device readiness is a major consideration.

5G phones are now mainstream, and every year, more and more 5G native devices are released. Samsung and Apple offer 5G tablets, and 5G laptops are becoming increasingly available, with Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung all offering them as an option.

Learn how Compucom recently partnered with T-Mobile as part of T-Mobile Business’ Connected Laptop offering to keep workforces productive and connected. 

The post The Benefits of 5G to Healthcare appeared first on Compucom.