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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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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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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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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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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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
26 Oct 2023
5G NSA vs. SA: How do the deployment modes differ?
Non-standalone 5G uses a combination of existing 4G LTE architecture with a 5G RAN. Standalone 5G, on the other hand, uses a 5G RAN and a cloud-native 5G core. Continue Reading
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26 Oct 2023
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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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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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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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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Feature
09 Sep 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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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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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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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
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Tip
26 Jun 2023
What's shaping the future of wireless networking technology?
Cloud-managed Wi-Fi, radio spectrum expansion and the hybrid workplace are some of the converging developments that are modernizing wireless networks. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jun 2023
Cisco acquires Accedian for Network Assurance portfolio
Cisco expects Accedian to bolster its Network Assurance portfolio for service providers. The product line provides network troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and remediation. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Jun 2023
Evaluate top 5G fixed wireless access benefits
Fixed wireless access, when enabled by 5G, makes wireless network connectivity accessible to users at affordable rates. Learn the benefits FWA brings to operators and enterprises. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 May 2023
An overview of 802.1X authentication methods and EAP
Enterprises use 802.1X authentication to manage their wireless LANs, and that process relies on the Extensible Authentication Protocol and its various types. Continue Reading
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News
03 May 2023
Baptist Health leaves Cisco for Arista
Baptist Health in Jacksonville, Fla., expects Arista's single wired, wireless and data center network operating system to eliminate partial outages during infrastructure upgrades. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Apr 2023
5 predictions about 5G adoption in 2023 and beyond
You can distill the biggest predictions about the future of 5G into one big prediction: By 2025, 5G will start living up to some of the hype we heard five years earlier. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Apr 2023
MNOs must clear 5G confusion to maximize revenue
5G has the potential to generate billions in revenue, but MNOs must first clear up 5G applications and technologies -- such as FWA and IoT -- for customers and partners. Continue Reading
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News
04 Apr 2023
OnAsset logistics service taps Amazon Sidewalk
Logistics company OnAsset Intelligence expects Amazon Sidewalk to be most beneficial for tracking goods on trucks heading to their final destinations in densely populated areas. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2023
Explore private wireless network vendor options
Private wireless networks can be difficult to deploy. Networking vendors -- such as Celona, Cradlepoint and Extenet -- offer services that could simplify the process. Continue Reading
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News
21 Feb 2023
Technology trends behind Cisco, Arista earnings
Cisco and Arista's latest earnings reports show that companies are upgrading campus networks and distributing more applications across cloud and edge environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2023
Evaluate Wi-Fi mapping tools and best practices
As Wi-Fi is now a critical component of enterprise network connectivity, Wi-Fi mapping helps teams evaluate their wireless coverage. Learn the basics of Wi-Fi mapping. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jan 2023
How cloud-managed Wi-Fi simplifies policy and AP controls
Cloud-managed Wi-Fi provides IT groups with several benefits, including policy enforcement, network management and consistent AP configuration across multiple sites. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Dec 2022
Are private wireless networks worth the investment?
Private wireless networks enable more control over networks, but they aren't right for every organization. Here's what to evaluate for a private wireless network deployment. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Dec 2022
Finding the best cellphone plans for small businesses
A business mobile plan is common in the enterprise, but the picture isn't as clear for SMBs. If an SMB opts to purchase a phone plan, there are many options to choose from. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Dec 2022
5 sustainability initiatives in the telecommunications industry
Telecom operators have committed to sustainability plans to reduce carbon emissions and energy use. But they also face challenges, like competing goals and behavioral changes. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Dec 2022
5G expectations high, despite underwhelming adoption rates
A new study from IEEE found 5G remains one of the most anticipated technologies for 2023. Top expectations for 5G include automation, satellite services, sustainability and more. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2022
T-Mobile expands fastest 5G coverage to 260 million
T-Mobile has expanded its mid-band 5G coverage across most of the nation, pulling further ahead of rivals Verizon and AT&T. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2022
An overview of wireless WAN
Hybrid work, modernized cellular networks, and the convergence of 5G and software-defined networking are driving factors in the maturation of wireless WAN. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Dec 2022
How to set up a business Wi-Fi network
A Wi-Fi network is a business necessity, but setting it up takes skill and effective troubleshooting. Learn how to make Wi-Fi work and keep it running smoothly. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Dec 2022
Wireless security: WEP, WPA, WPA2 and WPA3 differences
As wireless networks have evolved, so have the protocols for securing them. Get an overview of WLAN security standards, and learn the differences among WEP, WPA, WPA2 and WPA3. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2022
5 most valuable wireless network certifications
Wireless networking skills are in high demand. Having a top-notch wireless network certification can help networking newbies and pros stand out among job candidates. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2022
A history of wireless for business and a look forward
This history of enterprise wireless takes you from WLAN development inside the enterprise to cellular data services outside the walls to make wireless-first a possibility. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Nov 2022
WLAN security: Best practices for wireless network security
Follow these wireless network security best practices to ensure your company's WLAN remains protected against the top threats and vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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News
23 Nov 2022
Warriors joins other NBA teams in building smart arenas
The Golden State Warriors installed 250 Wi-Fi 6E access points in Chase Center to deliver high-speed internet almost anywhere in the arena. Faster networks are a trend in the NBA. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Nov 2022
LEO satellite communications come to Earth
Apple, T-Mobile and others are kicking off early satellite communications projects. Direct satellite communications should become available on some new midband 5G phones in 2024. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2022
Best practices for enterprise CBRS deployment
Enterprises can use CBRS spectrum to deploy private cellular networks that offer reliable and predictable coverage. Learn about installation, AP mounting and device compatibility. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2022
3 types of wireless site surveys and how to conduct them
Network teams can avoid signal coverage issues by performing different wireless site surveys as they evaluate new spaces, set up sites and operate the network. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Nov 2022
What is the difference between WLAN and Wi-Fi?
Although the terms WLAN and Wi-Fi are used interchangeably, the two wireless technologies differ. Wireless LAN uses radio technology to connect nodes, while Wi-Fi is a type of WLAN. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 Nov 2022
Wireless access point vs. router: What's the difference?
The choice of a wireless access point vs. a router for wireless network connectivity depends on the physical size of the network, needs of the organization and the number of users. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
Troubleshoot wireless network connection problems in 10 steps
When troubleshooting wireless network issues, several scenarios can emerge. But valuable end-user insights can help network administrators root out problems. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2022
How Wi-Fi 6, WWAN and 5G make all-wireless offices possible
Wireless technology has evolved extensively in recent years to support end-user demands and the possibility of wireless-first network connectivity for business offices. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Nov 2022
9 steps for wireless network planning and design
Wireless network planning may appear daunting. But IT teams can tackle this task in nine key phases, which include capacity, redundancy and site surveys. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2022
5G for WWAN interest grows as enterprises go wireless-first
As interest in wireless-first WAN connectivity increases, network pros might want to consider using 5G to enable WWAN links. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2022
What's the difference between 802.11ac vs. 802.11ax?
The difference between 802.11ac and 802.11ax is significant. The two wireless standards differ notably in features such as AP capacity, spatial streams and data rates. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Oct 2022
The 4 different types of wireless networks
The four types of wireless networks -- wireless LAN, wireless MAN, wireless PAN and wireless WAN -- differ when it comes to size, range and connectivity requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
CBRS vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Citizens Broadband Radio Service enables private LTE networks and supports enterprise WAN deployments. But that doesn't mean Wi-Fi is going away anytime soon. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Sep 2022
How AI and ML in Open RAN alleviates network complexity
Incorporating AI and ML into Open RAN networks could help MNOs simplify operations and deliver 5G enhanced capabilities of high bandwidth, low latency and quality of service. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Aug 2022
Techniques to get started with green networking
'Emerging Green Technologies' details how technology is a flexible tool organizations can use to make business operations more sustainable. Here's how to make your network green. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Aug 2022
How energy-efficient networking supports sustainability
In this Q&A, 'Emerging Green Technologies' author Matthew N. O. Sadiku discusses the importance of going green and how to make networks energy-efficient to achieve this goal. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Aug 2022
What is the difference between Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7?
With its low latency, high throughput and multi-link operation capability, Wi-Fi 7 sounds promising. But will theoretical performance match the real-world experience? Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Aug 2022
Private 5G in a box simplifies deployment, mobility
Vendors are offering private 5G in a box -- a condensed and streamlined form of standalone 5G -- to simplify the complexity of typical private 5G deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Aug 2022
Wi-Fi sensing has the potential to be disruptive
With help from AI and machine learning, Wi-Fi sensing detects movement in the Wi-Fi environment. While it sounds promising, the technology still has a long way to go. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 May 2022
Understand the basics of 5G wireless networks
To build a 5G network, the deployment mode, spectrum band and services are all important factors to understand and consider. Here's what you should know about the basics of 5G. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Apr 2022
Top 5G limitations and challenges for businesses
While 5G has advanced in recent years, the fifth generation of cellular technology still has some shortcomings, such as smaller coverage ranges and a lack of rural rollouts. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Apr 2022
Zero trust, wireless WAN affect the future of IoT networking
Zero-trust security models, wireless WAN evolution and the emergence of pop-up businesses are all helping to fuel innovation in IoT networking capabilities. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Apr 2022
What are the features and benefits of 5G technology?
In addition to high speeds and low latency, the emergence of 5G cellular technology could put some pressure on the market prices of incumbent WAN connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2022
Will 5G replace Wi-Fi? No, but maybe in some use cases
Geographically remote locations, large public venues and manufacturing sites are a few of the key areas in which business 5G technology could provide real benefits. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Aug 2021
3 delivery models for 5G and MEC
To enhance network capabilities, enterprises will need to consolidate 5G and MEC technologies in the future. Following a deployment model is the first step. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 May 2021
Develop 5G ecosystems for connectivity in the remote work era
Adopting a 5G ecosystem could enable enterprises to better compete in offering edge computing and remote work options without sacrificing connectivity. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Apr 2021
Wi-Fi 6 rollout requires careful review of network devices
Wi-Fi 6 is just one part of the overall enterprise network. Organizations need to evaluate several network components to ensure a smooth Wi-Fi 6 deployment. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2021
Weighing the advantages of private 5G vs. carrier 5G
Considering private 5G vs. carrier 5G for your interior networking? No single option fits all, but here are some factors you should consider. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Dec 2020
What experts say to expect from 5G in 2021
In this roundup of networking blogs, experts explore 5G's potential in 2021, including new business and technical territories 5G may explore and features to transform enterprises. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Sep 2020
5G network security concerns and how to prepare for them
Enterprises looking forward to deploying 5G must first assess their security concerns upfront and review their policies and procedures, despite 5G's security improvements. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Sep 2020
How and when to establish enterprise 5G partnerships
Enterprises that buy 5G public services, procure network slices or build their own private 5G networks need to establish the right partnerships for mobile services, equipment and software. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jul 2020
Future of wireless communications unifies 5G and Wi-Fi 6
The future of cellular, Wi-Fi and other wireless communication networks will see these technologies unify to support faster network speeds and real-time communications. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Apr 2020
Wi-Fi 6 explained: Speed, range, latency, frequency and security
Wi-Fi 6 is more than just another wireless upgrade, boasting substantial gains over Wi-Fi 5. Learn how frequency, speed, range, latency and security change with the new standard. Continue Reading
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News
20 Mar 2020
Coronavirus: VPN hardware becomes a chokepoint for remote workers
VPN hardware has become a bottleneck for companies with a high number of employees working from home as a result of efforts to combat the coronavirus. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2020
5G network slicing security benefits IoT, mobile
The fifth generation of mobile cellular technology offers a unique benefit its predecessors don't: network slicing. Learn more about these virtual slices and their security benefits. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2019
Assess the Wi-Fi 6 features available in Wave 1 and Wave 2
Catch up on the different features available with the first wave of Wi-Fi 6, including OFDMA and Target Wake Time, and find out which capabilities Wave 2 will bring. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Nov 2019
What are the challenges of IoT in space?
Even though aging hardware is a problem all networks face at some point, satellite IoT networks boost some network challenges to a new level. Continue Reading
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Guide
02 Oct 2019
5G explained: A deep dive into the features and facts
In this 5G guide, learn about key features, challenges and deployment tips. This 5G explanation goes beyond the fundamentals and explores 5G's relationship to other technologies. Continue Reading
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Guide
31 May 2019
An 802.11ax survival guide: Expectations for the Wi-Fi standard
This 802.11ax survival guide has the information you need for the newest Wi-Fi standard, including various expectations, device advice and available features. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2019
Wi-Fi 6 vs. 5G networks is more about cooperation than competition
While Wi-Fi 6 and 5G might experience some interference with each other, enterprises should focus on the handoff of connections between the two technologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2019
With AI-based networking, UNH Wi-Fi gets smart
When the University of New Hampshire's residence halls went wireless-only, an AI-based networking tool from Aruba gave them a closer look at Wi-Fi performance. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Feb 2019
3 developing 5G trends that differentiate it from 4G LTE
Operators may be more cautious about initial 5G deployments than originally expected. But three key elements differentiate 5G from 4G LTE, which could make it a better investment. Continue Reading
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News
16 Nov 2018
Aruba 802.11ax APs, switches address niche market
Aruba has launched access points and switches aimed at early adopters of the next-generation Wi-Fi standard. The Aruba 802.11ax gear is aimed at colleges, retailers and hotels. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2018
Enterprises won't reap benefits of 5G until 2020s
The first commercial 5G deployments are scheduled for later this year. One report's 5G timeline predicts many enterprises won't reap the benefits of 5G until the mid-2020s. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2016
How to troubleshoot iPhone and iPad connection problems
As iPhone and iPad Wi-Fi clients proliferate in the enterprise, IT must troubleshoot Wi-Fi connection problems. Here's how to solve basic iPhone and iPad connection problems. Continue Reading