Mobile infrastructure
Mobile device infrastructure in the enterprise can include several components -- everything from mobile-focused VPNs and email servers to wireless networking and supporting management technologies. Learn how to support mobile devices with the variety of required back-end services.
Top Stories
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Feature
06 Jun 2025
How to choose and set up a mobile VPN for an Android phone
A tailored approach to network security is crucial when managing smartphones in the enterprise. IT teams should consider Android VPN options for their organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 May 2025
How to choose and set up a mobile VPN for an iPhone
Many users perform work tasks on their iPhones, relying on mobile VPNs to securely access corporate resources. Learn about VPN options for iPhones and how to set up these systems. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jun 2025
How to choose and set up a mobile VPN for an Android phone
A tailored approach to network security is crucial when managing smartphones in the enterprise. IT teams should consider Android VPN options for their organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2025
What is a SIM card and how does it work?
A SIM card, also known as a subscriber identity module, is a smart card that stores the information necessary for a smartphone to connect to a mobile network. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 May 2025
How to choose and set up a mobile VPN for an iPhone
Many users perform work tasks on their iPhones, relying on mobile VPNs to securely access corporate resources. Learn about VPN options for iPhones and how to set up these systems. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 May 2025
What is GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications)?
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a digital mobile communication standard applied widely in Europe and other parts of the world. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 May 2025
What is the OSI model? The 7 layers of OSI explained
The OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection model) is a multilayered reference model that shows how computer systems and applications communicate over a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 May 2025
What is short message service center (SMSC)?
The short message service center (SMSC) is the portion of a mobile phone network that handles text message operations. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 May 2025
What is RCS messaging (RCS chat)? Explaining how to use it
RCS, or Rich Communication Services, is a messaging protocol used in mobile devices. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 May 2025
How can an enterprise mobile VPN fit into a mobility plan?
Organizations that need to secure mobile users and provide remote access to corporate resources should consider an on-premises or cloud-hosted mobile VPN. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 May 2025
What is the consumerization of IT (IT consumerization)?
The consumerization of IT refers to how software and hardware products designed for personal use have migrated into the enterprise and are used for work purposes. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is Google Drive?
Google Drive is a cloud-based storage service that allows users to store and share files online. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2025
What is a capacitor (capacitance)?
A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical charge. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 May 2025
What is mobile platform as a service (MPaaS)?
Mobile platform as a service (mPaaS) is a specialized type of PaaS designed to provide an integrated development environment (IDE), deployment platform, lifecycle management and analytics for mobile and web applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2025
What is MIMO (multiple input, multiple output)?
MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) is an antenna technology for wireless communications in which multiple antennas are used at both the source (transmitter) and the destination (receiver). Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Apr 2025
5G NSA vs. SA: How do the deployment modes differ?
Non-standalone 5G combines 4G LTE architecture with a 5G RAN. Standalone 5G, on the other hand, uses a 5G RAN and a cloud-native 5G core for connectivity. Continue Reading
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Answer
02 Apr 2025
Does a hotspot work when a mobile device has no service?
Cellular service is necessary for establishing a hotspot connection. IT must know what to do when remote users are dealing with both Wi-Fi and service issues. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2025
What is multiplexing and how does it work?
Multiplexing, or 'muxing,' is a way of sending multiple signals or streams of information over a communications link at the same time in the form of a single, complex signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Mar 2025
What is the data link layer in the OSI model?
The data link layer is the protocol layer in a program that handles how data moves in and out of a physical link in a network. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Mar 2025
What is IT operations (IT ops)?
The term IT operations (IT ops) describes the many processes and services an IT department manages and maintains within an organization. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Mar 2025
What is QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) and how does it work?
QAM (quadrature amplitude modulation) is a method of combining two amplitude modulation (AM) signals into a single channel. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Mar 2025
MWC 2025: Enterprise networking in a jungle of mobility
The latest private 5G, FWA and several DAS/neutral host choices were on display at this year's Mobile World Congress event. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2025
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ in size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2025
What are port numbers and how do they work?
A port number is a way to identify a specific process to which an internet or other network message is to be forwarded when it arrives at a server. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Mar 2025
What is a router?
A router is a physical or virtual appliance that passes information between two or more packet-switched computer networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Feb 2025
What is NRZ (non-return-to-zero)?
NRZ (non-return-to-zero) is a form of digital data transmission in which the binary low and high states, represented by numerals 0 and 1, are transmitted by specific and constant direct current (DC) voltages. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Feb 2025
5G vs. 4G: Learn the key differences between them
5G and 4G network architectures have some significant differences. See how the two technologies differ and what the new capabilities mean for business communications. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2025
Intel axes Falcon Shores amid market challenges
Intel decides its limited resources would be better spent on Falcon Shores' successor, Jaguar Shores. Continue Reading
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News
21 Jan 2025
Intel Foundry gains new defense clients for 18A process
Intel Foundry secures defense contracts with Trusted Semiconductor Solutions and Reliable MicroSystems, highlighting confidence in its 18A manufacturing process. Continue Reading
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News
07 Jan 2025
Intel expands Core Ultra AI chips amidst market competition
PCs with Intel's new Core Ultra AI chips for gamers will hit the market starting in February. Previous Core Ultra releases targeted business PCs and the edge. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Nov 2024
What is SMS (Short Message Service)?
SMS (Short Message Service), commonly referred to as 'text messaging,' is a service for sending short messages of up to 160 characters (224 character limit if using a 5-bit mode) to mobile devices, including cellular phones, smartphones and tablets. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Oct 2024
What is Wi-Fi calling?
Wi-Fi calling is a voice service that lets users place and receive calls over a wireless internet connection, as opposed to using a cellular signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Oct 2024
What is an SSID (service set identifier)?
An SSID (service set identifier) is a sequence of characters that uniquely names a Wi-Fi network. An SSID is sometimes referred to as a network name. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Sep 2024
What is a personal area network (PAN)?
A personal area network (PAN) is a small network that interconnects technology devices within a limited range of just a few meters. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Aug 2024
What is LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol)?
LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) is a software protocol used for locating data about organizations, individuals and other resources, such as files and devices, on public and corporate networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Aug 2024
What is AMD Ryzen?
AMD Ryzen is the brand name for Advanced Micro Devices' line of desktop and mobile processors. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Aug 2024
What is EM shielding (electromagnetic shielding)?
EM shielding (electromagnetic shielding) is the practice of surrounding electronics and cables with conductive or magnetic materials to guard against incoming or outgoing emissions of electromagnetic frequencies (EMF). Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jul 2024
What is an embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC)?
An embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC) is a small storage device made up of NAND flash memory and a storage controller. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What are Internet data caps and why do providers use them?
A data cap, also known as a bandwidth cap, is a limit that service providers impose on the amount of data a user account can transfer at a specified level of throughput over a given time period, for a specified fee. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jun 2024
Apple Intelligence GenAI, ChatGPT to boost Siri on iPhone, Mac
The consumer electronics giant finally made its long-anticipated move into generative AI, emphasizing privacy. But most features will only be available on the newest iPhones. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 May 2024
data plan (mobile data plan)
A data plan is an agreement between a mobile carrier and a customer that specifies how much mobile data the user can access, usually per month, for a specific fee on a carrier network. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 May 2024
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a telecommunications industry specification that describes how mobile devices, computers and other endpoints can easily communicate with each other using a short-range wireless connection. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 May 2024
Global Positioning System (GPS)
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a 'constellation' of 31 well-spaced satellites that orbit the Earth and make it possible for people with ground receivers to pinpoint their geographic location. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2024
4G (fourth-generation wireless)
4G is the short name for fourth-generation wireless, the stage of broadband mobile communications that supersedes 3G (third-generation wireless) and is the predecessor of 5G (fifth-generation wireless). Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Apr 2024
GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)
GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) is a best-effort packet-switching protocol and standard for wireless and cellular network communication services. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Apr 2024
Simplify mobile app development for the enterprise
Without the right resources, mobile app development can be challenging. Find out how to start the process and the best tools to streamline the app dev journey. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2024
Hyperscalers use 5G to make an edge play into space
As telecom providers struggle to monetize 5G, hyperscalers like AWS, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure are betting big on LEO satellites to extend 5G connectivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2024
Finding the best mobile hotspot option for remote work
Organizations that allow the use of mobile hotspots for remote work must know how personal hotspots and dedicated hotspot devices differ. Compare these hotspot options. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2024
private 5G
Private 5G is a wireless network technology that delivers 5G cellular connectivity for private network use cases. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2024
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure)
NFVi (network functions virtualization infrastructure) encompasses all of the networking hardware and software needed to support and connect virtual network functions in carrier networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2024
millimeter wave (mmWave)
Millimeter wave (mmWave), also known as millimeter band, is a range of electromagnetic frequencies between microwaves and infrared. Continue Reading
- Definition 23 Jan 2024
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Tip
17 Jan 2024
How do personal hotspots work for remote work?
A personal hotspot can be a valuable element of a remote work strategy, but IT teams must understand how they work and what management challenges they present. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2024
OpenRoaming vs. Passpoint: What's the difference?
OpenRoaming and Passpoint both provide users with internet access outside of their coverage area via Wi-Fi, but they differ in terms of use cases, implementation, cost and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2024
What are the features and benefits of 5G technology?
Fixed wireless access, increased bandwidth, faster cellular speeds and new technology enablement in vertical markets are just some of the business benefits of 5G. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Dec 2023
5G New Radio (NR)
5G New Radio, or 5G NR, is a set of standards that replace the fourth-generation wireless (4G) LTE network communications standard. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2023
Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses
While 5G has advanced in recent years, the fifth generation of cellular technology still presents some challenges, such as wavelength limitations and cost considerations. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2023
Improve mobile hotspot security in 5 steps
Users might not hesitate to connect to a mobile hotspot, but that doesn't mean IT should always allow it. Learn the threats these hotspots pose and how to handle them. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Dec 2023
Enterprise 5G: Guide to planning, architecture and benefits
An enterprise 5G deployment requires extensive planning. Prepare for advances in wireless technology using this 5G guide that covers use cases, architecture integration and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2023
Top 5 use cases for 5G augmented and virtual reality
By integrating augmented and virtual reality technologies with 5G, several industries could reap significant benefits. But beware of some important limitations. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2023
5G standalone (5G SA)
5G standalone (5G SA) is a cellular infrastructure built specifically for 5G services by implementing 5G standards and protocols in the radio network and controller core. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Nov 2023
distributed antenna system (DAS)
In a distributed antenna system (DAS), a single signal source is connected to a group of antennas instead of to a single antenna. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2023
5G Advanced features include accurate timing, AI support
5G Advanced is the latest 5G specification, aiming to deliver enhanced massive MIMO, 5G integration with AI and accurate location positioning. Here's more about recent developments. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2023
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface)
CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface) is a specification for wireless communication networks that defines the key criteria for interfacing transport, connectivity and control communications between baseband units (BBUs) and remote radio units (RRUs), which are also called remote radio heads (RRHs). Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Nov 2023
The status of the US 5G fixed wireless access market
FWA's ability to deliver high-speed connectivity to rural areas has high revenue potential and has prompted U.S. MNOs AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile to expand national deployment. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Nov 2023
What are the pros and cons of 5G?
Enterprises are evaluating 5G and its effect on their operations. Before they can reap the benefits, they have to consider these 5G pros and cons. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Nov 2023
mobile virtual network operator (MVNO)
A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is a reseller of wireless communications services. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Nov 2023
5G and SD-WAN bring benefits to branch locations and beyond
Individually, 5G and SD-WAN promise many benefits for businesses. As a pair, 5G and SD-WAN could specifically enhance network connectivity for remote employees. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Nov 2023
Wi-Fi (802.11x standard)
Wi-Fi is a term for certain types of wireless local area networks (WLAN) that use specifications in the IEEE 802.11 family of standards. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2023
Enterprise 5G deployment options and how to procure them
The two main types of 5G deployment options are standalone and non-standalone. Find out how they're different, how to procure them and some helpful 5G tips. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Oct 2023
Indoor 5G gets a boost as small cells come to rescue
Indoor small cells are becoming more common in consumer and enterprise markets. Along with distributed antenna systems and Wi-Fi networks, small cells increasingly enable RF coverage. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2023
The essential 5G glossary of key terms and phrases
To understand 5G, delve into the terminology that shapes the technology. This glossary of 14 5G keywords explains what 5G is and how its features work. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Oct 2023
The 3 different types of 5G technology for enterprises
5G isn't a single flavor of cellular technology; it's three flavors, and each one can enable advanced capabilities, such as ultrareliable low latency and IoT connectivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Oct 2023
Wi-Fi 6 vs. 5G: What's the difference?
Some of the major differences between Wi-Fi 6 and 5G include frequency, authentication, licensing and use cases. But the two technologies can also work well together. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Oct 2023
Open RAN revenue falls but 5G remains on track
New research showed the market for Open RAN, a once-promising 5G enabler, has slowed down. Challenges persist, but experts expect 5G to continue to grow with Open RAN involvement. Continue Reading
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Opinion
12 Oct 2023
Could the iPhone 15's USB-C port drive device consolidation?
With the coming of the new iPhone with the USB-C port, organizations might look at this new compatibility feature as the impetus for some changes to their device policies. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Sep 2023
Cut through 5G hype with the latest insights
Network complexity has made 5G difficult for telecom providers to enable, which has delayed global development. These insights examine the status of 5G. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Aug 2023
Wi-Fi range extender (range expander)
A Wi-Fi range extender is a network device used to increase the effective range of a wireless network. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
forward error correction (FEC)
Forward error correction (FEC) is a method for obtaining error control in data transmission in which the source (transmitter) sends redundant data and the destination (receiver) recognizes only the portion of the data that contains no apparent errors. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jul 2023
802.11
802.11 is a family of evolving specifications for wireless local area networks (WLANs) developed and maintained by a working group of IEEE. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jun 2023
wireless ISP (wireless Internet service provider or WISP)
A wireless internet service provider (WISP) is an internet service provider (ISP) that allows subscribers to connect to the internet at designated hot spots or access points using a wireless connection such as Wi-Fi. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jun 2023
hertz (Hz)
Hertz (Hz) is the standard unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI). Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Jun 2023
uplink and downlink
In satellite telecommunication, a downlink is the link from a satellite down to one or more ground stations or receivers, and an uplink is the link from a ground station up to a satellite. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jun 2023
geostationary satellite
A geostationary satellite is an Earth-orbiting satellite placed at an altitude of approximately 22,300 miles or 35,800 kilometers directly above the equator. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jun 2023
How to address mobile compliance in a business setting
When organizations plan for compliance and data security, they need to consider mobile devices due to their proliferation in a business setting and how easy it is to lose them. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2023
end-user computing (EUC)
End-user computing (EUC) is a term that refers to the technologies that IT professionals use to deploy, manage and secure the devices, applications and data that workers require to perform their jobs. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Jun 2023
super app
A super app is a mobile or web application that combines multiple services into one platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 May 2023
frequency band
In telecommunications, a frequency band -- sometimes called a band -- refers to a specific range of frequencies in the electromagnetic frequency spectrum assigned to certain applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 May 2023
telecommuting
Telecommuting allows an employee to complete work assignments from outside the traditional workplace using telecommunications tools such as email, phone, chat and video apps. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 May 2023
mobile workforce management (MWM)
Mobile workforce management (MWM) is a category of software and related services used to manage employees working outside the company premises; the term is often used in reference to field teams. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2023
Manchester encoding
In data transmission, Manchester encoding is a form of digital encoding in which a data bit's state -- 0 or 1 -- is represented by the transition from one voltage level to another. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Apr 2023
text messaging (texting or wireless messaging)
Text messaging is the act of sending short, alphanumeric communications between cellphones, pagers or other hand-held devices, as implemented by a wireless carrier. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Apr 2023
smartphone
A smartphone is a cellular telephone with an integrated computer and other features not originally associated with telephones, such as an operating system (OS), web browsing and the ability to run software applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2023
wireless distribution system (WDS)
A wireless distribution system (WDS) is a method of interconnecting access points (AP) in a wireless local area network (WLAN) without requiring that they connect through a wired backbone. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Mar 2023
wireless broadband (WiBB)
Wireless broadband (WiBB) is high-speed internet and data service delivered through a wireless local area network (WLAN) or wireless wide area network (WWAN). Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Mar 2023
LTE (Long-Term Evolution)
LTE (Long-Term Evolution) is a fourth-generation (4G) wireless standard that provides increased network capacity and speed for cellphones and other cellular devices compared with third-generation (3G) technology. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2023
802.11n
802.11n is an IEEE standard for wireless networking that boosts the speed, dependability and range of wireless transmissions in wireless local area networks (WLANs). Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2023
antenna
An antenna is a specialized transducer that converts electric current into electromagnetic (EM) waves or vice versa. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jan 2023
Android Studio
Android Studio is the official integrated development environment (IDE) for Android application development. Continue Reading
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News
06 Jan 2023
AMD doubles down on AI with new Ryzen 7000 chips
Looking to take on market leader Nvidia, AMD unveiled its first Ryzen 7000 series chip that includes a built-in AI engine to speed artificial intelligence content creation. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2023
Google Chrome browser
Google Chrome browser is a free web browser used for accessing the internet and running web-based applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2023
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) is a communications technology developed by 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) to enable the transmission of multimedia content via text message. Continue Reading