Ericsson and Ookla have demonstrated a methodology by which 5G network slices can be measured and validated.
Ookla said that measuring and validating network slices is important for the coming 5G-Advanced era, creating a way to ensure the quality of experience (QoE) profile of new applications and use cases.
Testing and identifying specific 5G network slices enables service-level agreements (SLAs) to be verified in real time by the customer — using the Ookla Speedtest app — as well as the service provider. The press release points out that this enables consumers to ensure that they are getting the performance they’re paying for.
“Network slicing is no longer a future concept; it is a commercial reality. However, you cannot manage what you cannot measure,” Ookla Senior Advisor Tibor Rathonyi said in a press release. “Our work with Ericsson is a pivotal first step in providing the transparency needed to prove the value of these premium 5G services to both consumers and enterprises.”
Network slicing is a big deal. It enables multiple virtual networks over a single physical infrastructure. Examples are ultra-low latency (for gaming), high bandwidth (for 8K streaming) and mission-critical reliability (for industrial IoT and emergency services).
Last summer, Google Fiber and Nokia said that they had successfully demonstrated the technique at the GFiber Labs. The companies used a Nokia optical line terminal in the demonstration. Two PS5 gaming consoles were linked to a traffic generator. Before network slicing was activated, the PS5s experienced lag, shuttering, and pixelation. The consoles acted normally when network slicing was activated, according to the report.
Late last month, Ookla released its “State of the Mobile Union” for the second half of 2025, which included ratings for 5G quality. The three major carriers all had wins in the company’s ratings.
