Mobile and wireless networks
Mobile and wireless networks are always evolving. Cellular technology has matured from 4G to 5G, which of course will lead to 6G innovations and networks. Wi-Fi has also seen several iterations of standards with Wi-Fi 6 as the latest generation. Despite their maturity, discover how wireless LAN (WLAN) systems continue to undergo transformations.
Top Stories
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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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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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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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Definition
11 Apr 2025
What is COPE (corporate-owned, personally enabled)?
COPE (corporate-owned, personally enabled) is a mobile device management model that allows employees to use corporate-owned mobile devices for specific types of personal use. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is a uniform resource identifier (URI)?
A uniform resource identifier (URI) is a character sequence that identifies a logical (abstract) or physical resource -- usually, but not always, connected to the internet. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Apr 2025
What is an initialization vector?
An initialization vector (IV) is an arbitrary number that can be used with a secret key for data encryption to foil cyber attacks. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2025
How to fix an iPhone Personal Hotspot that's not working
Connectivity issues, misconfigured settings and human error can all cause mobile hotspot problems. IT must know how to avoid and fix iPhone hotspot issues for remote work. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2025
How to troubleshoot when a hotspot is not working on Android
Troubleshooting mobile hotspots on Android devices requires IT to implement documentation, training and best practices to help remote and hybrid users. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2025
Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 6E vs. Wi-Fi 7: What are the differences?
Wi-Fi standards continue to evolve. The three most recent standards -- Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 -- build on each other's capabilities, but all have their own unique features. 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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Tip
05 Mar 2025
802.11 standards: How do 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be differ?
Wi-Fi standards -- 802.11ac, 802.11ax and 802.11be -- differ based on frequency bands, spatial streams and maximum data rates, with 802.11be offering the most significant improvements. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Feb 2025
What is modulation?
Modulation is the process of converting data into radio waves by adding information to an electronic or optical carrier signal. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Feb 2025
What is a wireless mesh network (mesh WiFi)?
A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a mesh network created through the connection of wireless access point (wireless AP) nodes installed at each network user's location. 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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Definition
21 Jan 2025
What is the Universal Service Fund (USF)?
The Universal Service Fund (USF) is a United States government program that supports telecommunications access and affordability in rural and low-income communities. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Dec 2024
5 predictions about 5G adoption in 2025 and beyond
You can distill the biggest predictions about the future of 5G into one big prediction: By 2027, 5G will overtake 4G as the dominant technology. Continue Reading
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News
03 Dec 2024
Arista simplifies switching to its campus network
Arista says companies can switch to its campus network while holding on to legacy stacked switches. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Nov 2024
How to test packet loss on Windows, macOS and Linux
Network admins should know how to identify and test for packet loss. Diagnosing this issue doesn't require specialized tools or expensive software, but these four tools can help. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2024
A guide to Li-Fi technology
Li-Fi is an emerging wireless technology that uses visible light to transmit data instead of radio frequencies. Though still niche, Li-Fi has numerous advantages and use cases. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Oct 2024
What is mobile hotspot?
A mobile hotspot is a portable hardware device or software that serves as a wireless access point for connecting devices to the internet. 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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Feature
09 Oct 2024
The future of Wi-Fi 7 adoption in enterprises
Wi-Fi 7 promises faster speeds and better performance, but complexities in deployment and limited device compatibility have slowed adoption across enterprises. 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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News
27 Sep 2024
HPE Aruba, Arista update network management consoles
Arista highlights its consolidation of network management tools within CloudVision, while HPE extends Aruba Central to include Cisco and other third-party network devices. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Sep 2024
What is Uber?
Uber is a transportation and ride-sharing technology company that allows passengers to book rides and drivers to charge fares and get paid via a smartphone app. 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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Feature
26 Aug 2024
Wi-Fi upgrades on the horizon as enterprises eye Wi-Fi 7
Enterprises have been slow to adopt Wi-Fi 7, as they find previous generations suit their needs. However, experts predict enterprises will upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 in the next 12 to 18 months. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Aug 2024
The pros and cons of optical wireless communication
OWC transfers data using highly directional light in free space. While OWC delivers high-speed data transfers, it is susceptible to multipath dispersion and interference. Continue Reading
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Video
09 Aug 2024
An explanation of private 5G vs. Wi-Fi
Private 5G improves upon traditional cellular networks by catering to private networks, expanding accessibility beyond major carriers. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2024
Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 5: What's the difference?
Wi-Fi 6 was introduced as the next-generation Wi-Fi standard after Wi-Fi 5. While similar in certain aspects, Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 differ in terms of features and capabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jul 2024
9 types of networks and their use cases
Networks differ based on size, connectivity, coverage and design. This guide explores the most common types of networks, their benefits and use cases. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Jul 2024
What is SIP trunking (Session Initiation Protocol trunking)?
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) trunking is a service a communications service provider offers that uses the protocol to provision voice over IP (VoIP) and multimedia connectivity between an on-premises phone system and the public switched telephone network (PSTN). Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jul 2024
AT&T data breach: What's next for affected customers?
Another breach has affected millions of people -- this time it is AT&T customers. Learn more about this AT&T breach and what to do if you were part of this attack. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Jul 2024
What is wavelength?
Wavelength is the distance between identical points, or adjacent crests, in the adjacent cycles of a waveform signal propagated in space or along a wire. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jul 2024
7 steps to set up a home network
This guide teaches networking newbies how to set up a home network, from understanding hardware components to managing network performance and security. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jul 2024
How AI can improve telecom RAN operations and analytics
Telecom operators can harness AI to improve their RAN operational efficiency and analytics, which enables them to improve customer experience and network management. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2024
Compare 5 single-vendor SASE providers
SASE has broad enterprise appeal because it combines security and connectivity. With so many vendor options available, enterprises might need help narrowing the search. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 Jul 2024
HPE Discover 2024: Aruba Networking moves to center stage
HPE has made enterprise networking a critical part of its portfolio, with updates around AI, Aruba's networking tools, and the upcoming acquisition of Juniper. Continue Reading
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Video
26 Jun 2024
An explanation of rich communication services
In this video, TechTarget editor Tommy Everson talks about rich communication services. Continue Reading
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Opinion
29 May 2024
Lessons from deploying private 5G
Enterprises that have deployed private 5G cite both technical and business benefits, but they might not be what organizations expect. See how expectations compare with reality. 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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Feature
25 Apr 2024
FCC broadband labels explained: Everything you need to know
Similar to how a nutrition label details food content, the FCC now mandates labels for internet providers to clarify service details for consumers to improve transparency. 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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Definition
29 Feb 2024
mobile device
A mobile device is essentially a portable, handheld computer that enables users to access information, perform tasks and connect with other people and devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2024
Private LTE vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Enterprises have a lot of options when designing networks for specialized uses. Wi-Fi supports high-volume environments, but private LTE also provides important benefits. 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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News
29 Jan 2024
Juniper adds data center networks to Mist AI
Juniper's Mist AI update will include using the Marvis virtual network assistant to obtain information on data center cabling, configurations and connectivity issues. 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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Tip
24 Jan 2024
Beam division multiple access features and their effect on 5G
BDMA, a new multiple access technology, has the potential to boost the efficiency of 5G networks through its use of beam formation and orthogonality. 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
18 Jan 2024
The pros and cons of containerized 5G workloads
Deploying containerized 5G workloads in a cloud environment offers benefits like portability, optimized resource usage and orchestration. But the strategy creates security risks. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
Evolved Packet Core (EPC)
Evolved Packet Core (EPC) is a framework for providing converged voice and data services on a 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) network. 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
05 Jan 2024
5G security: Everything you should know for a secure network
5G touts better security controls than 4G, including stronger encryption, privacy and authentication. But enterprises need to consider the challenges, too. 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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Feature
27 Dec 2023
How AI in Wi-Fi will shape wireless connectivity
AI will become an integral technology in networks in the next few years. Find out what an automated Wi-Fi network can do for businesses and learn best practices to get started. 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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Definition
19 Dec 2023
unlocked cell phone
An unlocked cell phone is a cellular telephone that can be used with more than one service provider, allowing a user the flexibility to switch between different networks. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Dec 2023
Wi-Fi 7 development grows but adoption interest lags
Despite early discussions about the potential of Wi-Fi 7, many enterprises are still catching up with the rapid pace of Wi-Fi development for new standards. 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
11 Dec 2023
What 5G skills are most in demand?
In the evolving 5G job market, service providers, systems integrators and enterprises are looking for applicants who have experience and aspirations in five broad areas. 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
20 Nov 2023
What is 6G? Overview of 6G networks & technology
6G (sixth-generation wireless) is the successor to 5G cellular technology. 6G networks will be able to use higher frequencies than 5G networks and provide substantially higher capacity and much lower latency. 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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Tip
16 Nov 2023
How to build a private 5G network architecture
A private 5G network could provide organizations with greater control over their wireless environments. But cost and complexity could be critical deterrents. 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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Answer
09 Nov 2023
What are licensed and unlicensed wireless frequency bands?
Licensed frequency bands are reliable and offer better performance than unlicensed frequency bands, which are low cost and easy to deploy but interference is common. 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
20 Oct 2023
Macrocell vs. small cell vs. femtocell: A 5G introduction
Small cells provide fast connectivity speeds for 5G networks and capable devices, but 5G won't stop there. Macrocells and femtocells are also key to connect 5G networks. 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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Tip
17 Oct 2023
7 top 5G enterprise use cases and business opportunities
As 5G cellular networking continues to roll out, some key business use cases have emerged. Fixed wireless access, for example, could improve office connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2023
5G UC evens the mobile communications playing field
5G is improving the quality of UC services over mobile networks. Learn the advantages 5G UC offers remote workers compared to 4G LTE networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Oct 2023
telecommunications (telecom)
Telecommunications, also known as telecom, is the exchange of information over significant distances by electronic means and refers to all types of voice, data and video transmission. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Sep 2023
dual SIM phone
A dual SIM phone is a mobile phone, typically a smartphone, with the capacity to use two subscriber identity module (SIM) cards. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Sep 2023
Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP)
Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP) is a security protocol commonly used to protect wireless networks. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Sep 2023
Android Open Source Project (AOSP)
The Android Open Source Project (AOSP) is the repository of source code and the foundation which maintains it that is responsible for the core of the Android operating system. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
How low Earth orbit satellite networks improve internet access
Compared to traditional satellite setups, LEO satellite internet provides several benefits, such as low latency, reduced costs and better support for remote sites. 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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Guest Post
15 Sep 2023
Hybrid work drives changes to on-premises networks
Remote and hybrid work are forcing changes to on-premises networks, such as increased bandwidth, upgraded Wi-Fi connectivity and unified network access controls. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Sep 2023
What are 5G's killer applications?
5G's killer applications have yet to be fully realized -- or defined -- but some potentials include higher capacity, improved connectivity, private 5G and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Aug 2023
FWA use cases for next-generation connectivity
Fixed wireless access provides broadband connectivity for subscribers at fixed locations. FWA use cases include locations with geographical constraints, temporary setups and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Aug 2023
Are wireless networks more energy-efficient than wired LANs?
The quick, complicated answer is yes and no. Wireless can be more energy-efficient than wired, but businesses need to weigh several variables to reap energy savings. 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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Answer
16 Aug 2023
What's the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet?
The internet connects users to the outside world. Wi-Fi connects devices within a business, which then connect to other network devices and out to the internet. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2023
SDI swaps Cisco wired, wireless LAN for Nile NaaS
Supply chain software maker SDI claims it cut LAN costs by a third with Nile. But Gartner says NaaS is unlikely to become a dominant option for on-premises networking. 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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Feature
10 Jul 2023
Wi-Fi AP placement best practices and security policies
From a security standpoint, Wi-Fi network designers should consider the physical and logical placement of APs, as well as management, segmentation and rogue devices. Continue Reading