France opens 3.8-4.2 GHz band for 5G private industrial networks

French telecom regulator Arcep has opened an application process for 5G spectrum in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band, reserved for private networks serving industrial and professional users. The award targets factories, logistics hubs, ports, campuses and other sites that want their own dedicated 5G infrastructure instead of relying on public mobile networks.

The scheme focuses on local licences, tailored to specific locations and needs, rather than nationwide coverage. Arcep positions the move as a way to support industrial digitalisation with higher reliability, tighter control over data, and lower latency than Wi-Fi or shared public 5G. The announcement confirms that the band is now formally available for these private deployments, with terms and conditions set by the regulator.