Imagine a mine in a remote location, where the depth, complex tunnel networks, harsh environmental conditions, and the constant movement of people and machinery make stable communication difficult. Everything, from people to assets, equipment and machines, need uninterrupted and reliable connectivity to operate effectively.
Mines pose some of the most extreme challenges for connectivity, but dedicated 4G and 5G private networks have emerged to help power the future of the industry. We’re seeing more deployments than ever before. The deployment of private networks in mining is growing and is expected to achieve a 32.5% CAGR from 2025 to 2033, with further increases by the early 2030s due to automation and digital mining initiatives.
However, even with this growing success, misconceptions about private networks remain. In conversations on the ground (or underground, as the case may be), we often hear many similar questions and myths about the potential of private networks. It is time to put those doubts to rest.
Is it possible and safe to deploy a private network at a remote location?
Mining environments can be complex, unpredictable, or even dangerous. But that is why private networks are needed. The mining industry plays a crucial role in supplying resources but faces many challenges. One of which is building a safe, secure environment.
Staying safe in a mine means always staying connected. Workers need reliable push-to-talk communication and geo-location tracking, even deep underground. New tools like automated drilling and haulage can also keep people out of dangerous areas. Private networks are the backbone of technologies that can spot risks right away and send alerts for quick action. Whether underground or opencast, strong and steady connectivity keeps mining safe and efficient.
Are private networks costly?
Technological efficiency is cost efficiency. A dedicated private network connects facilities to enable the insights for full situational awareness. This enables workers to track assets accurately and optimise operations. It enables them to reach faster decisions, use equipment better and cut costs.
With the implementation of a private network, more machines can run at once – driving greater efficiency and boosting production. Smart automation, also enabled by private networks, helps mines work faster and more efficiently. It is cost-effective because it provides reliable, low-latency connectivity built to match mining needs. In addition, it uses less infrastructure than other connectivity technologies, and as such, demands less manufacturing and transportation costs.
If private networks enable continuous automation and always-on operations, could that undermine sustainability goals?
Private networks cover a larger area than many other connectivity solutions. And as such, they require less physical infrastructure to cover the pit areas. Efficient infrastructure is a critical success factor in minimising carbon footprint, and the introduction of technologies Private networks enable us to do that.
An additional benefit provided by private networks is the ability to use remote sensing tools by connecting several devices 24/7 with an efficient use of power. Through drone mapping and geospatial analysis, it helps monitor and reduce environmental impact and meet sustainability targets.
Private networks are the future of mining
Public networks are not reliable enough for mining. They can get congested, and don’t guarantee the speed, uptime, or security needed for mission-critical applications.
This is where 4G and 5G dedicated private networks come in. They uniquely fill these gaps as they provide seamless connectivity for mission-critical use cases. Tailored networks are the future, connecting equipment, vehicles, and workers, and integrating IoT, AI, and robotics to enable remote control, location tracking, and predictive maintenance. Other less appropriate connectivity solutions would struggle with interference, mobility, and security in these large spaces. Private networks avoid this with seamless, stable coverage.
Cutting-edge private networks and services are digitally transforming mining by ensuring seamless and safe operations underground and in opencast sites. The case for wider adoption is clear. The future of mining needs more private networks.