Verana Networks

Founded in 2020, Verana Networks develops 5G radio access network (RAN) solutions optimized for the millimeter wave (mmWave) spectrum. Verana's core product includes purpose-built, plug-and-play small cells offering 360-degree coverage for access and backhaul capabilities, enabling wireless backhaul between them while providing 5G access to end-user devices. The company's technology is particularly focused on enabling applications such as gigabit fixed wireless access (FWA) and enhancing mobile broadband capacity in dense, urban areas. 

Verana's products are designed to comply with 3GPP standards and Open RAN specifications. It offers a virtualized RAN solution to optimize system cost, power consumption, and performance.

The company claims that its multi-hop IAB approach reduces the need for fiber backhaul connections, potentially cutting the required links by over 90% and reducing the cost of building 5G networks in the mmWave spectrum by up to 10x than traditional approaches.

Key customers and partnerships

Verana Networks had a field trial agreement with Verizon to test its 5G mmWave IAB solution (February 2023). Verizon's corporate venture arm, Verizon Ventures, was also a strategic investor in Verana Networks.