Community Private 5G Networks in Brazil: Legislation and Open-Source Enablers

Marcos Silva, Bruno Castro, Cleverson Veloso Nahum, Carniot Luiz Guimarães, José Maciel, Marcelo Saldanha, Ilan S Correa, Aldebaro Klautau

DOI: 10.14209/sbrt.2025.1571157183

Evento: XLIII Simpósio Brasileiro de Telecomunicações e Processamento de Sinais (SBrT2025)

Keywords: Community networks private 5G Brazilian spectrum regulation open-source stacks

Abstract

Brazil faces persistent connectivity gaps in remote and underserved regions, where traditional telecommunications infrastructure remains economically unviable. In response, recent regulatory advances have opened opportunities for deploying private and community 5G networks, allowing greater flexibil- ity in the use of electromagnetic spectrum bands, regardless of their designation in the Frequency Band Allocation Plan (PDFF). These changes enable a wider range of actors, including cooperatives, local governments, civil society organizations, and private enterprises-to take an active role in advancing national connectivity agenda and contributing to the development of the telecommunications sector. Despite this progress, widespread adoption is hindered by high deployment costs and limited technical expertise. This paper explores the current regulatory framework and practical pathways for obtaining spectrum li- censes in Brazil, while also assessing the potential of open- source 5G solutions to reduce costs and accelerate deployments. By comparing community-driven and private 5G initiatives, we provide actionable insights to support inclusive and sustainable connectivity in Brazil's remote regions.

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