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
26 Mar 2026
How to fix an iPhone Personal Hotspot that's not working
Hotspot issues can disrupt remote work and IT support. Here are the key fixes for connectivity, settings, carrier access and enterprise troubleshooting on an iPhone. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2026
How to troubleshoot when a hotspot is not working on Android
Android hotspots can fail because of carrier limits, settings conflicts, weak signal or security controls. Here are the quickest fixes IT teams should check first. 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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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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Definition
05 Aug 2022
m-commerce (mobile commerce)
M-commerce (mobile commerce) is the buying and selling of goods and services through wireless handheld devices such as smartphones and tablets. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Jul 2022
Customers discuss the potential of WWAN use cases
Wireless WAN offers high network speeds and enables remote connectivity at lower costs. Find out how cellular- and broadband-enabled WWAN helps organizations meet business goals. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2022
An introduction to neutral host networks using private 5G
Enterprises often use signal boosters and distributed antenna systems to improve carrier signal strength. Neutral host networks over private 5G could disrupt those methods. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jun 2022
Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins: IT spending could slow
Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins said companies could reduce spending but are unlikely to slash budgets because technology has become a revenue driver. 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
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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News
18 Mar 2022
Cradlepoint, Extreme Networks partner on 5G WWAN
Cradlepoint and Extreme Networks will combine the former's 5G routers with the latter's network fabric to build a 5G wireless WAN for remote deployments. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Mar 2022
Private 5G deployments to advance in 2022
As commercial private 5G deployments begin to advance in 2022, private cellular networks will become a reality for many organizations in the U.S. and around the world. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Mar 2022
Demand for effective telecom service assurance to increase
As the markets for 5G, IoT and other emerging technologies continue to grow, the service assurance market that ensures the quality of these services will also increase. Continue Reading
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News
03 Mar 2022
Microsoft updates Azure for Operators, joins AT&T in private 5G
Microsoft's latest Azure for Operators update includes critical 5G services. The company also joined AT&T in a private 5G service that can roam on the carrier's public network. Continue Reading
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News
11 Feb 2022
Research predicts enterprises will skip Wi-Fi 6E entirely
Supply chain issues plaguing Wi-Fi 6E will lead many enterprises to skip the wireless standard and go straight to Wi-Fi 7, according to the Dell'Oro Group. 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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Tip
13 Jan 2022
What's happening with standalone 5G?
Standalone 5G is the next major update for 5G technology. Learn about the benefits SA 5G will bring and find out when operators will begin deploying it worldwide. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2022
Google updates bring Apple-like interoperability to Android
Google will roll out a host of Android OS updates and features throughout 2022 focused on improving interoperability between Android, Windows and Chrome devices. Continue Reading
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News
05 Jan 2022
Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband to roll out in 46 cities
Verizon plans to roll out its faster 5G Ultra Wideband service to 46 US cities later this month. But contentious negotiations with the FAA threaten the service's timing. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2022
How IT can provide home Wi-Fi help for remote workers
When assisting home-based workers with their Wi-Fi woes, be sure to assess their internet connectivity and even consider deploying access points to their homes. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Dec 2021
5 trends in enterprise networking that defined 2021
In 2020, enterprises shifted to remote work due to the pandemic. The trend continued in 2021, along with four other networking trends that defined the year and will extend into 2022. Continue Reading
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News
01 Dec 2021
AWS to take on Microsoft Azure in private 5G
The AWS Private 5G managed service will compete with Microsoft Azure's private multi-access edge computing system. Unlike Microsoft, the AWS product focuses on an unlicensed spectrum. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Nov 2021
University's private cellular network hints to enterprise use
California State University, Stanislaus blanketed its campus in private 4G/5G in a project that shows promise for the future of CBRS networks in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Nov 2021
Midband 5G spectrum auctions come to the fore
Midband has become the premier spectrum for 5G use. The FCC's 3.45 GHz auction began in October, following the massive C-band sell-off that ended in January 2021. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Oct 2021
Pandemic sparks interest in Wi-Fi 6 adoption
As a result of the pandemic, a new hybrid work environment has emerged, and enterprises are looking to adopt new technologies -- Wi-Fi 6 included -- to manage it. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Oct 2021
6 Wi-Fi design best practices for enterprise networks
Designing Wi-Fi networks doesn't need to be overly complicated. Site surveys and walks around the environment are simple steps teams can take to assess coverage requirements. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Oct 2021
The status of 5G rollouts in 2021 and 2022
Major U.S. mobile operators -- AT&T, Dish, T-Mobile and Verizon -- are focused on deploying 5G through 2022. Learn about each provider's timeline. Continue Reading
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News
30 Sep 2021
FCC commissioner urges more funding for satellite broadband
FCC Commissioner Nathan Simington said satellite-based wireless broadband should be available in remote areas where fiber isn't an option. 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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Feature
29 Jul 2021
5G core network functionality driven by SDN, NFV
To reap the full benefits of 5G, operators are using SDN, NFV and network slicing to build out core network functionality. Continue Reading
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News
01 Jul 2021
Microsoft will host AT&T 5G network on Azure
AT&T will move its 5G services to Microsoft's Azure cloud. The move provides Microsoft with a critical 5G customer while AT&T cuts costs and gains scalability. Continue Reading
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News
11 Jun 2021
Cisco DNA Center update tackles customer headaches
The latest DNA Center upgrade simplifies deploying the campus network controller and scaling the platform to handle more endpoints. Cisco plans to release it in mid-June. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 May 2021
Enterprise RF spectrum management best practices
Effective spectrum management requires coordination from company departments to follow certain policies before introducing wireless devices to the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 May 2021
How to secure your home Wi-Fi network in 7 steps
When securing your home Wi-Fi, update devices regularly, change passwords consistently, turn off unused services and inspect outdoor network equipment. Continue Reading
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News
14 May 2021
Cisco's latest acquisition spree nabs three companies
Cisco's acquisitions, announced this week, would improve event hosting in Webex, boost network speeds for 5G, and enhance its security platform. Deal terms were not released. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2021
Enterprises mull 5G vs. Wi-Fi security with private networks
While Wi-Fi security can be implemented just as securely as 5G, mechanisms built into 5G offer some compelling benefits to enterprises considering private 5G networks. Continue Reading
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News
13 May 2021
'FragAttacks' eavesdropping flaws revealed in all Wi-Fi devices
Security researcher Mathy Vanhoef said every Wi-Fi device is impacted by at least one of the 12 vulnerabilities, and most devices are vulnerable to several of the flaws. 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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News
04 May 2021
Verizon media group sale brings cash for 5G network
Verizon's sale of the media group, which includes AOL and Yahoo, comes as it deals with a cash crunch and $129 billion in debt. Verizon competes with AT&T and T-Mobile. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Apr 2021
radio access network (RAN)
A radio access network (RAN) is a major component of a wireless telecommunications system that connects individual devices to other parts of a network through a radio link. 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
22 Feb 2021
How to build a private 5G business case
As you build a private 5G business case, be sure to include private 5G's benefits and challenges, as well as how to prove its ROI. Here's everything you need to know. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2021
News briefs: Dell, partners to deliver OneBox MEC
OneBox MEC is a 5G-enabled mobile edge computing platform. The hardware will contain turnkey technology for deploying a private 5G network and application services. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Feb 2021
An overview of 3GPP 5G releases and what each one means
3GPP has standardized features and specifications for all cellular technology generations since 3G. Learn about 3GPP's 5G timeline and notable features each 5G release introduces. 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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Tip
12 Jan 2021
Myths and realities of a Wi-Fi 6 upgrade
Despite the promise of high data rates, longer client battery life and more efficient radio techniques, enterprises need to weigh Wi-Fi 6's limitations. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Jan 2021
Broadband vs. Wi-Fi: What's the difference?
Broadband and Wi-Fi are common technical terms often used interchangeably -- although they shouldn't be. Both provide connectivity, but they do so in different ways. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Dec 2020
5 networking startups helping enterprises adapt and prepare
Even in a global pandemic, these five networking startups continue to impress. Learn how their innovative technologies can help enterprises prepare for unforeseen challenges. Continue Reading
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News
29 Dec 2020
Private 5G networks to gain momentum in 2021
Enterprises using industrial IoT devices are among the early adopters of private 5G networks, which could become an $8 billion market by 2027. 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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Answer
01 Dec 2020
What's the role of narrowband IoT in 5G networks?
The union of narrowband IoT and 5G technology can benefit manufacturers, organizations with large office buildings and outdoor campus settings. Here's what you need to know. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Nov 2020
New Celona 5G platform nets TechTarget innovation award
Celona 5G technology uses Citizens Broadband Radio Service spectrum to bring private mobile networking to the enterprise, enabling mission-critical automation and IoT. Continue Reading
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News
13 Nov 2020
Cisco sees an end to string of quarterly revenue declines
Cisco is cautiously optimistic that revenues will improve following a 9% drop last quarter. Rising enterprise orders contributed to a positive forecast for the current quarter. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Nov 2020
How and why to implement Wi-Fi QoS
Quality of service, as network pros know, prioritizes apps as they cross the network. But Wi-Fi QoS needs to be considered, too, in relation to the overall network. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Oct 2020
Growth of enterprise Wi-Fi at home spotlights digital divide
Remote enterprise workers need a reliable internet connection. Learn how the digital divide can touch workers and how companies can help bridge this gap. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Oct 2020
US-China 5G competition hinges on enterprise apps, services
In the U.S.-China competition over 5G, the infrastructure deployment race sets the stage for a larger struggle over the application layer. Here's why enterprise IT teams should care. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Sep 2020
Global company weighs 5G for manufacturing, IoT analytics
Global manufacturer Sanmina is studying the benefits of deploying 5G on its manufacturing floor to improve the speed of IoT and analytics data exchanges to the cloud. 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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Answer
17 Sep 2020
Private LTE networks grow as 5G comes into view
Private LTE networks deliver secure cellular connectivity in localized enterprise or industrial spaces, with private 5G networks and newly available spectrum bands soon to follow. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
Telecommunications book highlights spectrum, fiber cabling
5G touts faster download speeds and new application types, but other major 5G changes will be in spectrum and fixed wireless. Learn more in this telecommunications book excerpt. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Sep 2020
Multimedia data and 5G drive network transformation
Emerging networking trends and touted innovations always showcase faster speeds and new use cases. Yet, new challenges keep pace, too, such as security and privacy issues. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Sep 2020
LoRa vs. 5G: Can they coexist for IoT network connectivity?
LoRa vs. 5G technologies differ in terms of cost, use cases and technology types. However, LoRa and 5G may complement each other well for IoT connectivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Aug 2020
Enterprises prefer private 5G networks over network slicing
Large enterprises are wary of network slicing within public 5G networks because of potential security risks. But SMBs see network slicing as a viable 5G option. Continue Reading
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News
14 Aug 2020
Cisco restructuring follows weak revenues, forecast
The Cisco restructuring includes shifting research and development to different technology areas and offering employees early retirement. An analyst says layoffs are likely. Continue Reading
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News
07 Aug 2020
T-Mobile 5G progresses, Samsung intros 5G tablets
This week's 5G news includes T-Mobile 5G taking a significant step forward, Samsung releasing tablets and Intel and VMware joining forces on network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Aug 2020
What IT pros can expect from 5G core network architecture
5G is the first 'G' in the cloud, which means its network architecture can enable functions, services and capabilities past cellular generations couldn't. Here's what to expect. 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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Answer
26 Jun 2020
What's the difference between OFDMA vs. MU-MIMO in Wi-Fi 6?
Is there a difference between OFDMA and MU-MIMO? The two important Wi-Fi 6 features are complementary but distinct. Here's why. Continue Reading
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Answer
16 Jun 2020
Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? Yes and no
With the advent of a new wireless standard, some users may wonder: Is Wi-Fi 6 backward-compatible? The answer is yes. But do you want full backward compatibility? Continue Reading
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News
09 Jun 2020
Aruba Central touches more devices, gets better analytics
A new version of Aruba Central will include features for managing as many as 50,000 network devices from the cloud. The upgrade also includes better analytics for troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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News
29 May 2020
Wi-Fi vendors pitch people tracking for COVID-19 safety
Wi-Fi vendors Aruba and Juniper Networks work with partners to offer in-office people tracking to defend against a COVID-19 outbreak. Cisco focuses on managing gatherings in physical spaces. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 May 2020
5 things to know about MU-MIMO technology in Wi-Fi networks
'Multiuser multiple input, multiple output' might not roll off the tongue, but MU-MIMO technology is increasingly important in modern wireless networks. Here's what you should know. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Apr 2020
Determine 5G enterprise use cases, cost before deployment
There's a lot of hype surrounding 5G. Before getting too excited, it's important to determine the enterprise use cases, costs and what organizations must do to take advantage of 5G. 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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Tip
13 Apr 2020
Evolution of cellular 5G backhaul architecture faces challenges
Backhaul has become trendy again and for good reason. 5G backhaul architecture means network architects will have to reconsider how their networks can handle 1 Gbps speeds. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2020
How Wi-Fi experts can help during times of crisis management
When faced with disaster response, wireless network professionals can volunteer their Wi-Fi skills and advise friends and family about home network security. Continue Reading
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Opinion
06 Apr 2020
How free Wi-Fi hotspots help in emergency response situations
Emergency and disaster response require teamwork among businesses, governments and community groups. In these times, free Wi-Fi hotspots help people feel connected. 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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Answer
18 Mar 2020
What do the 6 GHz band and Wi-Fi 6E mean for wireless networking?
The FCC is expected to approve the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi, which should improve speed and capacity for wireless networks. But make sure your devices can use the 6 GHz band. Continue Reading
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News
17 Mar 2020
Dell warns of order delays; tech buyers worry about IT supply chain
Tech buyers feared the coronavirus pandemic could rattle IT supply chains. Meanwhile, Dell warned customers of delays in fulfilling orders on time. Continue Reading
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News
11 Mar 2020
Cisco restructuring follows Goeckeler departure
The Cisco restructuring that follows the departure of executive VP David Goeckeler has reshuffled the company's executive team among five newly created product groups. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Mar 2020
Can WPA2 be upgraded to WPA3?
A migration from WPA2 to WPA3 is not simple. Organizations may need to update their hardware extensively to accommodate the newer Wi-Fi encryption standard. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Mar 2020
How to handle vendor code bugs in enterprise Wi-Fi networking
Too many features in Wi-Fi devices can breed some serious code bugs. One coping mechanism is to seek help from fellow customers and network integrators. 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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News
06 Mar 2020
COVID-19 depresses 5G smartphone shipments
Omdia is the latest analyst firm to lower its projections for 5G smartphone shipments because of the COVID-19 outbreak. The firm expects 20% fewer phones in 2020. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Mar 2020
What is the difference between LoRa and LoRaWAN?
LoRa is a modulation technique for specific wireless spectrum, while LoRaWAN is an open protocol that enables IoT devices to use LoRa for communication. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Mar 2020
WAN transformation sparked by 5G, cloud and SD-WAN technologies
In a modern world, legacy WAN architecture is rife with shortcomings. But 5G features and use cases could help jump-start a WAN transformation for many organizations. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Mar 2020
What is USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a GSM (Global System for Mobile) communications protocol that is used to send text messages. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2020
RSA 2020: US needs allies to battle China's 5G threat
Experts at RSA 2020 said the United States and its allies have to solve trade disputes and combine resources to secure global 5G infrastructure against Chinese threats. Continue Reading
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News
28 Feb 2020
RSA Conference panel tackles Huawei security risks
Four panelists discussed the ban on the world's largest telecommunications equipment manufacturer in relation to to supply chain risk. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2020
What do 2G and 3G sunset dates mean for business customers?
A 2G and 3G shutdown probably won't affect businesses much, but embedded IoT devices may see some problems as these two older cellular technologies fade away. Continue Reading
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News
27 Feb 2020
RSA 2020: Experts say US is too slow in deploying 5G
At the RSA 2020 conference, experts said enterprise-class 5G services are years away. Obstacles include security and doubts about profitability. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2020
Latest Cisco earnings show tech buyers remain skittish
The latest Cisco earnings report shows customers paused tech spending despite a stabler global economy, while the impact of the coronavirus outbreak in China was a looming unknown. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Feb 2020
Explore the top Wi-Fi 6 technology benefits and providers
Learn the basics around Wi-Fi 6 along with the security, battery and bandwidth improvements that come with the upgrade and the top companies to consider for buying options. Continue Reading
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News
12 Feb 2020
Network software subscription models befuddle tech buyers
Tech buyers are frustrated and confused over network vendors' software subscription models. Some buyers say they're unconvinced the pricing models favor them. Continue Reading
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News
17 Jan 2020
5G vs. Wi-Fi: Verizon says cellular will win
In the not-too-distant future, businesses could find themselves weighing 5G vs. Wi-Fi in the campus and office. Verizon has already named 5G the winner. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Dec 2019
Decision-makers may prefer Wi-Fi over 5G in retail networks
For retail use cases, 5G may not provide as many benefits as it would for other sectors. Yet 5G offers innovative features, and retailers may still adopt 5G networks in the future. 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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News
07 Nov 2019
Cisco Meraki Go chasing Best Buy customers
The latest Cisco Meraki Go products cost as little as $149 -- a price that could attract Best Buy customers. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2019
It's not Wi-Fi 6 vs. 5G -- it's Wi-Fi 6 and 5G
Wi-Fi 6 and 5G have similarities and differences. Enterprises want to know how the two can work together. Vendors, for their part, will need an integration strategy. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2019
Cisco's picks for top 4 emerging networking technologies
Cisco's picks for top emerging networking technologies include machine reasoning, optical networking, cognitive radio and Citizens Broadband Radio Service. Continue Reading