Verana Networks

Verana Networks is a developer of innovative 5G radio access network (RAN) solutions focused on millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum. Founded in 2020, the company aims to address the cost challenges associated with deploying 5G networks in mmWave bands. Verana is building a new 5G technology platform from the ground up, with purpose-built, software-defined hardware optimized for dense outdoor small cell deployments.

Verana's solution is centered around a multi-hop Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) architecture, where its 5G small cells can provide wireless backhaul to other Verana small cells while simultaneously offering 5G access to smartphones and fixed wireless access (FWA) devices. This scalable, multi-hop IAB approach reduces the need for fiber backhaul links by more than 90%, lowering capital and operational expenditures while increasing flexibility in site selection and accelerating network rollouts.

The company's products include plug-and-play 5G small cells, called Mesh Radios, which provide 360-degree coverage for both access and backhaul. Verana's offerings are compliant with 3GPP and O-RAN specifications. As of April 2022, Verana had raised USD 43 million in venture capital funding across two rounds to commercialize its mmWave 5G RAN technology. In February 2023, Verizon announced a field trial agreement with Verana to test its IAB solution for enhancing the reach of Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network.