Scooch over AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, appetite for private 5G networks is growing

A new threat may be emerging for telecom giants.

While most individuals and businesses rely on public wireless networks, like those operated by AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, a small but increasing number prefer private wireless networks.

A private wireless network is a standalone network that provides limited access to authorized users. They can be assembled and run by small-scale private teams or outsourced to a mobile network operator like Verizon or T-Mobile.

They are usually meant for individual sites and are ideal for some industries such as mining and ports and government organizations such as the military. They are more secure and customizable than public networks and easier to expand than Wi-Fi for organizations like hospitals.

Private 5G networks are also perfect for rural areas where carriers don't provide service.

As recently as a year ago, reports said that this was a failed market, but that could not be further from the truth. According to findings from market research company Dell’Oro shared by RCR Wireless News, sales of private 4G/5G radio access network (RAN) equipment grew more than 40 percent in 2025, making up 3 to 5 percent of total sales.