In an ambitious move toward digital transformation, Costa Rica has officially entered the world of Standalone (SA) 5G through a groundbreaking partnership with Finnish telecom giant Nokia and Costa Rican operator Radiográfica Costarricense (RACSA). This project, which will eventually cover 500 sites, is set to bring faster speeds, low-latency connections, and a host of new technologies to the country. It’s a move that will not only benefit consumers but also fuel advancements in Internet of Things (IoT) services and improve overall connectivity across the nation.
The Deployment: What’s Happening on the Ground
Nokia, well-known for its cutting-edge technology in the telecom sector, is supplying RACSA with equipment from its AirScale range to get Costa Rica’s SA 5G network up and running. The initial deployment targets 30 sites across major cities such as San José, Cartago, and Limón, but the project doesn’t stop there. Nokia aims to expand the network to 170 sites by 2024, and eventually cover a total of 500 sites, bringing high-speed connectivity to both urban and rural areas.
For Costa Rica, this marks a pivotal step in bridging the digital divide between city dwellers and those in more remote parts of the country. As Nokia and RACSA push forward, the Standalone 5G network is poised to deliver ultra-fast data rates, low latency, and fixed wireless access—an increasingly popular alternative to traditional broadband.
What Is Standalone 5G, and Why Does It Matter?
Unlike previous versions of 5G that relied on 4G infrastructure to function, Standalone 5G (SA 5G) is exactly what it sounds like: a self-sufficient 5G network that doesn’t need to piggyback off 4G. The result? Faster speeds, lower latency, and the capacity to support advanced technologies like IoT and Massive MIMO.
For consumers, this means better, faster mobile service. No more buffering while streaming videos or slow download speeds when sharing large files. For businesses, especially those in IoT services, it opens the door to smarter cities, automated factories, and even connected healthcare solutions. Costa Rica is now on the path to becoming a tech-savvy hub, with industries set to benefit from these innovations.
Nokia’s Cutting-Edge Technology: The Backbone of Costa Rica’s 5G Network
To make all of this possible, Nokia is bringing its AirScale equipment to the table, which includes Massive MIMO radios, remote radio heads, and base stations. This isn’t just telecom jargon—these are the critical components that make high-speed, low-latency networks possible. Massive MIMO technology, for instance, enhances the capacity and coverage of the network by using multiple antennas, allowing for better data transmission even in crowded areas.
Along with hardware, RACSA has also chosen Nokia’s MantaRay network management system, which offers a unified and automated view of the entire network. This allows the operator to maintain a higher level of control, ensuring smooth operation and efficient maintenance. In a world where downtime can result in huge losses for businesses and inconvenience for consumers, having a top-tier management system in place is critical.
Expanding the Network: What’s Next?
The target for 2024 is to have 170 sites connected, but that’s just the beginning. The ultimate goal is to connect a total of 500 sites across Costa Rica, covering both densely populated urban areas and harder-to-reach rural zones. This widespread rollout is not only a technical achievement but also a significant step toward closing the digital divide between Costa Rica’s cities and its countryside.
For businesses, the benefits are clear: improved connectivity leads to better productivity and more opportunities to innovate. But the average Costa Rican citizen stands to gain as well. Fixed wireless access, one of the standout features of this 5G network, will provide a robust alternative to traditional broadband, particularly in areas where infrastructure is lacking.
According to a prediction from GSMA Intelligence, fixed wireless access is set for steady growth compared to other broadband methods. This means Costa Rica will not only improve mobile data speeds but will also offer an increasingly important option for home and business internet connectivity.
The Role of IoT and Costa Rica’s Digital Transformation
One of the most exciting aspects of this 5G rollout is its potential impact on Internet of Things (IoT) services. IoT refers to the interconnected network of devices that communicate with each other—everything from smart thermostats and wearable health monitors to complex industrial systems.
With the low latency and high data rates offered by Standalone 5G, Costa Rica is primed for growth in this area. We could soon see smart cities with more efficient traffic management, smart agriculture that uses data to optimize crop yields, and even remote healthcare services that allow doctors to monitor patients in real-time from afar.
In short, 5G is the fuel that can power Costa Rica’s digital transformation. According to Mauricio Barrantes, RACSA’s General Manager, this is exactly the goal: “The rollout of SA 5G is a pivotal step in Costa Rica’s digital transformation, which will enhance the quality of life for our citizens.”
What 5G Means for the Everyday User
Let’s break down what this means for you—the everyday mobile phone or internet user in Costa Rica. Here’s what you can expect from Standalone 5G in the near future:
- Faster Speeds: Whether you’re downloading a movie or uploading large files for work, 5G will make it happen faster than ever before.
- Low Latency: Gamers rejoice—5G’s ultra-low latency means near-instantaneous response times, making online gaming smoother and more enjoyable.
- Better Coverage: With 500 sites planned, more areas will have access to high-quality 5G service, meaning fewer dead spots and better service in rural areas.
- IoT Integration: Whether it’s home automation systems, smart appliances, or wearable tech, 5G will make IoT devices more reliable and responsive.
A Look Ahead: How 5G Will Shape Costa Rica’s Future
Costa Rica has always been known for its natural beauty and eco-tourism, but with the rollout of Standalone 5G, the country is positioning itself as a leader in technology and innovation. This move could attract more tech companies, encourage local startups, and ultimately create new job opportunities in the digital space.
The emphasis on improving connectivity across urban and rural areas ensures that all Costa Ricans, not just those in the capital or large cities, can benefit from these advancements. Whether it’s fixed wireless access in remote regions or IoT services that optimize daily life, 5G is about more than just faster internet—it’s about creating a more connected, more efficient, and more innovative society.
A Bright Future with Standalone 5G
Costa Rica’s decision to adopt Standalone 5G is a game-changer. With Nokia’s cutting-edge technology and RACSA’s commitment to expanding the network, the country is on track to become a hub for digital innovation in Latin America. The rollout of 170 sites by 2024 and the goal of 500 sites in total means that Costa Ricans can look forward to better internet speeds, improved business opportunities, and the seamless integration of IoT into everyday life.
As Costa Rica continues to evolve digitally, the combination of 5G technology, IoT services, and fixed wireless access is set to enhance the quality of life for both urban and rural populations. The future is bright for Costa Rica, and 5G is leading the charge.
