When guests or employees can’t reliably use their phones—whether to connect, navigate, or communicate—it’s more than just frustrating. It’s a missed opportunity to elevate connectivity and a breakdown in venue operations. As demand for reliable wireless coverage grows, venue owners are faced with an important decision: what’s the best way to upgrade indoor connectivity?
For years, Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) have been the go-to solution. But now, Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology is gaining momentum, offering a flexible, efficient approach that’s ideal for many modern venues. The right choice comes down to your goals, footprint, and budget.
Let’s break down the differences and what each means for your digital infrastructure strategy.
What Is MOCN?
MOCN is a smart, shared approach to wireless coverage. Instead of installing separate infrastructure for every mobile network operator, MOCN allows multiple carriers to operate on the same system. It’s like a carpool lane for wireless networks—everyone benefits from a streamlined ride.
Here’s how it works:
- Carriers share radio access networks and licensed or Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum, which reduces hardware requirements and simplifies deployment.
- A single base station connects to all participating carriers, so users stay on their network of choice without interruption.
- Gateways manage traffic and ensure compatibility across public and private networks, making them ideal for venues with diverse wireless needs.
By consolidating infrastructure, MOCN helps venues and property owners deliver strong, consistent coverage without the high costs or delays often tied to traditional systems.
What Is DAS?
DAS has long been the standard for boosting cellular coverage in large spaces, including stadiums, airports, casinos, and convention centers. It works by capturing external carrier signals and redistributing them throughout the venue via a network of antennas.
The benefits? DAS delivers carrier-grade coverage, often at very high capacity. But there’s a tradeoff:
- Each carrier requires its own set of equipment—radios, signal sources, and support.
- Coordination can be complex and time-consuming, especially when multiple carriers are involved.
- Deployment and maintenance costs are typically higher, making DAS better suited for large-scale venues with big budgets and timelines to match.
MOCN vs. DAS: How They Stack Up
Cost
- MOCN is more budget-friendly. Shared infrastructure means less equipment, lower installation costs, and faster ROI.
- DAS is a major investment, custom-built and carrier-specific. It’s powerful, but the cost can be significant.
Functionality
- MOCN supports both 4G and 5G, integrates with public and private networks, and supports low-latency applications, making it ideal for IoT, smart building systems, and operational tech.
- DAS is excellent at distributing carrier signals but doesn’t support private networks or advanced enterprise use cases.
Deployment Speed
- MOCN is faster to deploy, especially when using a turnkey model like Extenet’s. Less red tape, fewer players, and quicker results.
- DAS can take months to design, coordinate, and install—especially when multiple carriers are involved.
Scalability
- MOCN is flexible by design. As your needs grow, the system can grow with you, whether you’re adding square footage or new connectivity use cases.
- DAS scales well, but adds cost and complexity with every new expansion.
Which Makes The Most Sense for Your Venue?
For most mid-size venues, mixed-use properties, hotels, warehouses, or corporate campuses, MOCN delivers a modern, cost-effective solution. It supports a mix of public and private wireless needs, making it perfect for:
- Smart building systems
- Staff communication
- Guest and tenant Wi-Fi
- Public safety communications
- Seamless 5G experiences
Extenet’s infrastructure-as-a-service model lets venue owners deploy MOCN quickly, stay carrier-ready from day one, and scale when needed—all without the delays and costs of traditional builds.
Despite its complexities, DAS continues to be the right fit for some properties, especially high-capacity venues where multiple carriers need guaranteed coverage. If you manage a stadium, arena, or large-scale convention center with existing carrier partnerships, DAS or private wireless networks offer the robust, dedicated infrastructure needed to handle tens of thousands of simultaneous connections.
How to Decide: MOCN or DAS?
It really comes down to this: what are you solving for?
- Want scalable, fast-to-deploy wireless infrastructure that supports both business and consumer connectivity needs? MOCN likely checks every box.
- Need guaranteed carrier coverage across massive spaces with sky-high usage? DAS might be your answer.
Extenet has helped venue owners, real estate leaders, and enterprise teams evaluate and implement the right digital infrastructure solutions—whether that’s DAS, MOCN, or a hybrid approach. We work with all major mobile network operators and provide guidance every step of the way—from design to deployment and beyond. Whether you’re hosting 50 or 50,000 people, your venue deserves fast, reliable, future-ready connectivity.
Reach out to our team to learn how Extenet can help you make the right choice for your property. DAS, MOCN, or something in between—we’ll make sure your guests, tenants, and staff stay connected!
