News

Africa Mobile Networks (AMN) has teamed up with Starlink to improve mobile connectivity in remote areas of Africa. This collaboration allows Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to utilize Starlink’s satellite network as a backbone link for base stations in regions with limited connectivity.

In a traditional mobile network, a Base Transceiver Station (BTS) acts as a base station that connects devices with sim cards to mobile internet, calls, and SMS. The BTS is connected to a Base Station Controller (BSC), which manages multiple BTSs. The BSCs report to the Mobile Switching Centre (MSC), responsible for routing network traffic. These components are typically connected through terrestrial links, such as high-capacity optic fiber cables or microwave radio links.

However, establishing these backbone links involves significant costs. Network operators prefer to have developments or settlements along the backbone link to offset expenses through paying customers. Consequently, small population clusters located outside of the backbone link often experience limited or no mobile network coverage.

AMN aims to eliminate the need for terrestrial backbone links by utilizing Starlink’s satellite network. This approach considerably reduces the cost of setting up and maintaining these links, focusing primarily on the cost of the BTS itself. Moreover, it decreases the turnaround time for establishing a BTS and offers greater flexibility in placement.

AMN, a provider of Network as a Service (NaaS), offers managed mobile network infrastructure for MNOs in remote parts of Africa. They enable MNOs to run their networks through their infrastructure, eliminating setup costs and logistical challenges. Currently operating in 14 African countries, AMN plans to expand to six more. Their service focuses on providing mobile network coverage in areas that lack connectivity, targeting settlements with populations of 1000 or more.

In various African countries, AMN has partnered with Orange, an ISP that provides mobile services in 13 African countries. AMN has deployed over 3000 base stations across the continent. To connect remote base stations to the network, AMN initially used VSAT satellites, which had limited bandwidth and high latency. Access to Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network offers a faster and more efficient solution for expanding mobile connectivity in Africa.

The partnership between AMN and Starlink presents an interesting case study on utilizing satellite networks to enhance mobile connectivity in Africa. It holds the potential to accelerate network expansion in remote areas, enabling more people to access mobile services.

The post Africa Mobile Networks and Starlink Partnership to Enhance Mobile Connectivity in Remote Areas appeared first on ISP Today.