EE selects NSN for 4G LTE network

EE, the UK's largest mobile operator, has selected Nokia Solutions and Networks (NSN) to support the continued expansion of its 4G LTE network. NSN is also modernising EE's 2G network to improve performance and reduce power consumption.

Under the turnkey contract, NSN will implement its innovative Single RAN Advanced solution, which will allow EE to run different radio technologies using single, multi-purpose hardware. The deployment includes NSN's scalable, high-capacity Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Stations.

In addition, it includes NSN's cloud-ready NetAct for efficient network management across technologies. NSN is also the provider of an IP Security solution for secure IP communication between LTE base stations and core network sites in EE's network.

"This partnership highlights our approach to maintaining a differentiated 4G network experience. We will continue to lead our UK competitors in speed, coverage, and reliability," said EE CEO Olaf Swantee.

"EE's 4G LTE roll-out has been impressively fast. Given the presence of NSN base stations in EE's 2G and 3G network, it is logical for EE to opt for NSN's Single RAN solution," said Steven Hartley, Practice Leader Industry, Communications & Broadband at Ovum.

NSN's strong end-to-end service capabilities enable EE to meet its 4G LTE launch program targets as well as modernise its existing network. NSN's LTE technology facilitates superfast mobile broadband connections across the UK, with low latency and superior data rates. This means consumers can experience improved coverage in their homes, at work and when on the move.

"EE will also benefit from NSN's significant experience in spectrum efficiency research when refarming current 2G spectrum for 4G with NSN's support," said Rajeev Suri, CEO of NSN.