5G MPN design and deployment: challenges and opportunities for industrial use cases

This paper presents the detailed technical design, practical implementation, and preliminary performance evaluation of the Digital Connectivity and Innovation Centre (DCIC) at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), focusing specifically on the deployment of advanced 5G capabilities. Emphasis is placed on the simultaneous integration of two distinct 5G architectures—a portable Mobile Private Network (MPN) and an Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN)—within a unified facility. The paper describes the complete technical workflow, including architectural design, equipment selection, network configuration, and integration processes. Additionally, it highlights key challenges encountered during implementation, practical solutions adopted, and initial results evaluating critical network performance metrics such as throughput and latency. The lessons learned from this implementation provide valuable insights and guidance for future deployments of integrated 5G network facilities supporting industry innovation and research.