The Pros and Cons of Public and Private Wireless Networks

Utility professionals interested in private and public wireless networks need to understand the specific advantages and disadvantages of these communications networks. They also need to understand the reasons for the movement toward a comprehensive system utilizing both types of networks.

This article highlights the Autovation Communications Technology panel discussion Tuesday, Sept 27. The discussion was moderated by Jeff Buxton, Enspiria Solutions. Panelists included Victor Sitton, Elster Solutions; Tammy Zucco, Tantalus; Campbell McCool, SmartSynch; Frank Folz, Airspan Networks and Al King, CalAmp.

Read on to learn about private wireless networks, which offer extensive security and control, and public wireless networks, which consist of rapidly growing technologies that meet extreme speed and bandwidth requirements.

Private vs. Public Networks

The battle between public and private networks has been raging on for a long time: Which is better for your smart grid communications needs? Well, why not a combination of both? It’s definitely possible. “The answer is based on your needs,” said Sitton.

The panelists explained that most utility network communication needs will be satisfied by private wireless networks. However, public networks (referred to as cellular) will play a vital part in augmenting private networks. “Utilizing both public and private networks leads to greater results,” said King.

Private Network Technology

The advantages of a private network technology are:
  • Better control
  • Increased security
  • No monthly fees
  • More customizable
  • Proven technology
  • Network availability
With private networks, utilities maintain control over traffic and always ensure enough capacity for smart grid communications. Plus, utilities can control access to the network so there’s an inherent level of security within the grid. And since the private network is privately owned and operated, there aren’t any monthly fees. Plus, with network availability, utilities are able to build extensive redundancy, backup power and additional sites, repair the system when needed and enjoy better remote coverage with longer-range access.

There are some disadvantages of a private network technology. They include:
  • Bandwidth limitations
  • Slower speeds
  • High initial building cost
  • Equipment, labor and land upkeep
  • Slower deployment
Public Network Technology

The advantages of a public network technology are:
  • High speeds
  • Time-share connectivity
  • Economies of scale
  • Faster deployment
  • Greater bandwidth capabilities
  • Low operating costs
With high speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps in 3G devices, plus the utilization of 4G, public networks have the upper hand. And higher speed plans are not much more expensive than slower speeds.

Time-share connectivity saves money because you only pay for the time used. Faster deployment saves time, and there’s no initial system building.

The disadvantages of a public network technology are:
  • Coverage limitations
  • Longevity
  • Low customization
  • Lower security
  • Shared bandwidth
  • Service fees
  • No control or maintenance
Why Not Both?

With both private and public communications technologies, utilities can enjoy the advantages of each. Having private and public networks allows for:
  • High speeds
  • Control
  • Time-share connectivity
  • Security
  • Economies of scale
  • No monthly fees
  • Faster deployment
  • Proven technology
  • Greater bandwidth capabilities
  • Network availability
  • Low operating costs
Using both for smart grid communications will allow for the optimized use of available bandwidths. Utilities can use public networks for non-critical applications while establishing CAD for routine operations when live dispatchers are not required. For streamlining operations, utilities can route public network communications from customers to a private network of service vehicles. Utilizing both networks adds more thorough infrastructure and spreads use of bandwidth.

Though public networks have their advantages for non-critical communications, mission-critical communications rely on the stability of a private network. Crucial data transmission depends on the speed and bandwidth that comes with using private networks.

Though the panelists said that using both networks will yield stronger results, they agreed that application will ultimately determine which network works best for your utility. Some last thoughts from the panel:
  • Neither private nor public will offer everything to everyone
  • Balance functionality vs. funding
  • Analyze your business needs and ROI
Please share your communications technology experiences (challenges and successes) with your peers. There are several ways you can do this: We look forward to hearing from you!