Why Standardized Network APIs Still Need a Network API Gateway Standardization is accelerating enterprise adoption
By PAiCore Technology ● 3 min read
The introduction of GSMA Open Gateway and the CAMARA project has marked a significant step forward in the evolution of telecom services. By defining standardized Network APIs, these initiatives enable enterprises to access mobile network capabilities through consistent interfaces, reducing the complexity traditionally associated with operator-specific integrations.
For enterprises building applications that rely on network capabilities—such as Number Verification, SIM Swap detection, Device Location, or Quality on Demand—standardized APIs simplify development and improve interoperability across participating operators. However, standardization alone does not address the operational requirements of deploying these APIs in production.
Standardized APIs are only one part of the solution
A standardized API defines how an application interacts with a network capability. It does not define how those APIs should be secured, governed, monitored, or managed within an enterprise or operator environment. As Network APIs become part of critical business processes, organizations require an operational layer that ensures APIs can be deployed securely, reliably, and at scale.
The role of a Network API Gateway
A Network API Gateway complements CAMARA and GSMA Open Gateway by providing the control and management capabilities needed for enterprise-grade deployments.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Authentication and authorization
- Policy enforcement
- Traffic management and rate limiting
- API routing and orchestration
- Analytics and usage monitoring
- Lifecycle and version management
- Multi-operator integration
- Integration with enterprise security and identity systems
These capabilities allow organizations to expose standardized Network APIs while maintaining governance, operational consistency, and security.
Standardization and governance are complementary
Rather than replacing one another, CAMARA and a Network API Gateway address different aspects of the architecture. CAMARA focuses on what the APIs should look like by defining common specifications. A Network API Gateway focuses on how those APIs are securely exposed, managed, monitored, and consumed across production environments. Together, they create an architecture that supports interoperability while meeting enterprise operational requirements.
Why this matters for telecom operators
For operators, Network APIs represent an opportunity to expose trusted network capabilities to enterprises through a common ecosystem. As adoption grows, operators need a scalable way to publish, secure, manage, and evolve these APIs while integrating with existing network functions and operational support systems. A Network API Gateway enables operators to achieve these objectives without compromising flexibility or introducing unnecessary complexity.
Building for the future
The number of standardized Network APIs will continue to expand as the industry develops new use cases for security, identity, quality of service, location, fraud prevention, and digital experiences. Organizations that invest in a robust Network API architecture today will be better positioned to adopt future APIs with minimal disruption.
At PAiCore Technology, we provide interoperable Network API Gateway solutions that support GSMA Open Gateway and CAMARA APIs while delivering the governance, security, and operational control required for modern telecom environments.
To learn more about PAiCore’s Network API Gateway solution, click here.
Explore the open-source project and try it yourself by visiting our GitHub Repository. We welcome developers, telecom engineers, and contributors to explore the project, share feedback, and contribute to building the future of open telecom networks.