Ports are complex and demanding environments where logistics, machinery and people must operate in close coordination. Reliable connectivity is essential to ensure that container handling, tracking and operational systems work smoothly. At the Port of Liverpool, operated by Peel Ports Group, the introduction of a Private 5G network is beginning to transform how the port operates by providing the robust, secure and scalable connectivity that modern port operations increasingly require.
The container terminal at the Port of Liverpool spans roughly 100 acres, making consistent connectivity across the entire site a significant challenge. Previously, much of the wireless connectivity relied on Wi-Fi networks, which often struggled in such an industrial environment. Large metal structures, heavy machinery and constant movement can cause interference and signal disruptions, leading to intermittent connections and operational inefficiencies. In a port environment where equipment such as straddle carriers travel long distances across the site while constantly exchanging operational data, connectivity interruptions can directly affect efficiency and safety.
To address these challenges, Peel Ports worked with a consortium that included Logicalis UK&I, Cisco, Intel and the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. The initiative was also part of the UK Government’s ON-SIDE programme, which explores the use of Private 5G networks for industrial and public sector environments and examines how shared spectrum can support new connectivity models.
The Private 5G network deployed at the port uses lightly licensed spectrum obtained through Ofcom’s Shared Access Licence framework. This allows Peel Ports to operate its own dedicated wireless network within the port area, ensuring that connectivity resources are reserved specifically for operational requirements. Unlike public networks or Wi-Fi systems, the private deployment provides greater control over coverage, latency, bandwidth allocation and security.
From a technology perspective, the network architecture combines several key components. Cisco’s Mobility Services Platform provides the cloud managed 5G core, while Nokia AirScale radios deliver the radio access layer. Industrial gateways and switching infrastructure connect operational systems and equipment to the network, and Logicalis integrates and manages the overall solution. Together, these elements form a private mobile network designed specifically for the operational needs of the port.
The deployment uses three Nokia small cell radios operating in the n77 band. These radios have been installed on existing port towers, avoiding the need to construct new physical infrastructure. This approach not only speeds up deployment but also improves sustainability by reusing existing structures. The coverage provided by these radios allows cranes, straddle carriers and other mobile equipment to remain connected across the site without the interference problems that affected previous wireless systems.
One of the most immediate improvementes has been the reliability of connectivity across the port. Early observations have already shown fewer connection dropouts around the quayside areas. The improved bandwidth and lower latency offered by Private 5G have also delivered a substantial performance increase compared with the previous Wi-Fi based setup. In fact, the network performance improvement has been reported to reach up to ten times the previous capacity in some cases.
Beyond simple connectivity improvements, the Private 5G network is enabling a more data driven approach to port operations. Ports rely on constant monitoring of equipment movement, cargo handling and operational workflows. Historically, some of this information required manual collection or could only be captured intermittently. With Private 5G, a wide range of sensors and devices can now be connected directly to the network, allowing operational data to be collected in real time.
This shift toward continuous data collection has the potential to significantly improve operational visibility. Port teams can access more accurate and timely information about equipment performance, cargo movements and workflow efficiency. Such insights can help optimise logistics processes, reduce delays and improve planning across the port ecosystem.
Another important benefit is the potential to expand connectivity to a broader range of devices and applications. Any equipment capable of supporting a SIM based conection can be integrated into the network. This opens the possibility for additional use cases such as push to talk communications, worker safety applications including man down alerts, and expanded video monitoring using connected cameras.
The introduction of Private 5G also supports the long term goal of greater automation within port operations. Automation requires reliable, low latency communication between machinery, control systems and monitoring platforms. The enhanced coverage and reliability of a dedicated private network provide a strong foundation for such developments, enabling technologies that depend on continuous connectivity.
Ports are often considered critical national infrastructure, which means security and operational resilience are essential. By operating its own private network, Peel Ports can maintain direct control over how connectivity is managed and secured across the port environment. This approach reduces reliance on external networks while providing a flexible platform that can evolve alongside the port’s digital transformation strategy.
While the initial deployment focuses on the Port of Liverpool, the project is also serving as a test bed to validate the technology and its benefits for wider adoption. If the results continue to meet expectations, Private 5G could become a preferred networking solution across other ports within the Peel Ports portfolio.
The Peel Ports deployment highlights how Private 5G can move beyond theoretical use cases and deliver tangible improvements in real world industrial environments. By addressing long standing connectivity challenges and enabling new data driven capabilities, Private 5G is helping ports like Liverpool modernise their operations and prepare for a more automated and digitally connected future.
You can download the case study from Logicalis website here. The video below provides further details.
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