<p>Fine-grained and
wide-scale connectivity is a precondition to fully digitalize the manufacturing
industry. Driven by this need, new technologies such as time-sensitive
networking (TSN), fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks, and industrial
Internet-of-things (IIoT) are being applied to industrial communication
networks to reach the desired connectivity spectrum. With TSN emerging as a
wired networking solution, converging information technology (IT) and
operational technology (OT) data streams, 5G is upscaling its access and core
networks to function as an independent or a transparent TSN carrier in
demanding OT use-cases. In this article, we discuss the drivers for future
industrial wireless systems and review the role of 5G and its
industrial-centric evolution towards meeting the strict performance standards
of factories. We also elaborate on the 5G deployment options, including
frequency spectrum allocation and private networks, to help the factory owners
discern various dimensions of solution space and concerns to integrate 5G in
industrial networks.</p><br>