The launch, powered by Nokia’s next-generation technology, promises speeds of up to 1.5Gbps, 10 times faster than 4G and ultra-low latency to deliver a new era of connectivity for consumers and businesses across the nation.
The deployment initially covers 188 sites across Guayaquil and surrounding regions including Samborondón, Daule, Durán, Manta, Portoviejo, Salinas and Santa Elena. Operating in the N78 3.5GHz band, the rollout supports the Ecuadorian government’s national digitalisation policy and aims to extend high-speed coverage nationwide by mid-2026.
“This is a landmark moment in Ecuador’s technology history. Our new 5G mobile network will offer faster, more stable and secure connectivity across the country without raising our commercial prices,” said Ronald Spina, general manager, CNT E.P.
“Beyond telecommunications, we’ll build on Nokia’s advanced solutions to benefit strategic sectors such as health, education, manufacturing, agriculture and transportation, through data- and AI-driven solutions that improve quality of service for more Ecuadorians.”
Nokia will supply CNT with equipment from its AirScale Radio Access Network (RAN) portfolio, including energy-efficient Massive MIMO radios and ReefShark System-on-Chip technology. The solution suite also features Nokia’s AI-powered MantaRay Network Management system to enable intelligent automation and a consolidated view of network performance.
Nokia will further deploy its 7250 IXR and 7750 SR IP routing platforms and 1830 Versatile WDM Transport systems to ensure seamless, high-speed data transmission. Together with Nokia’s Network Services Platform (NSP), CNT will gain enhanced network visibility, automation and slicing capabilities to support mission-critical applications such as emergency communications and smart city infrastructure.
“Our long-standing partnership with CNT E.P., providing solutions across mobile, IP, optical and fixed networks, is a source of pride for Nokia,” said Bruno Leite, head of mobile networks, Latin America, Nokia.
“We are confident this latest collaboration on the 5G launch will significantly modernise CNT’s broadband and support its commitment to build a more innovative, competitive and connected nation.”
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