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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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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Tip
06 Dec 2024
How to troubleshoot when a hotspot is not working on Android
Troubleshooting mobile hotspots on Android devices requires IT to put in the documentation, training and best practices to help remote and hybrid users. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Apr 2023
broadband
Broadband refers to telecommunications in which a wide band of frequencies is available to transmit information. 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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Definition
03 Apr 2023
Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP)
Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) is an encryption protocol included in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11i standard for wireless local area networks (WLANs). 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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Definition
22 Mar 2023
captive portal
A captive portal is a webpage that the user of a public-access network is required to view and interact with before they can access the network. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2023
telematics
Telematics is a term that combines the words telecommunications and informatics to describe the use of communications and IT to transmit, store and receive information from devices to remote objects over a network. 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
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 Feb 2023
decibels relative to isotropic (dBi)
Decibels relative to isotropic (dBi) is a unit of measurement that describes how much power an antenna transmits in a single direction when compared to an isotropic radiator, which transmits in all directions at once. Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Feb 2023
multi-user MIMO
Multi-user MIMO, or MU-MIMO, is a wireless communication technology that uses multiple antennas to improve communication by creating multiple connections to the same device at the same time. 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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Definition
13 Feb 2023
mobile app
A mobile app (or mobile application) is a software application developed specifically for use on small, wireless computing devices, such as smartphones and tablets, rather than desktop or laptop computers. 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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Definition
04 Jan 2023
What is wireless communications? Everything you need to know
Wireless communications is the transmission of voice and data without cable or wires. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Dec 2022
802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5)
802.11ac, also known as Gigabit Wi-Fi, is a specification in the IEEE 802.11 family applicable to WLANs (wireless local area networks). 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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Definition
09 Dec 2022
wireless backhaul
Wireless backhaul is the use of wireless communication systems to transport data between the internet and subnetworks. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Dec 2022
electrostatic field
When two objects in each other's vicinity have different electrical charges, an electrostatic field exists between them. 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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Definition
01 Dec 2022
telemetry
Telemetry is the automatic measurement and wireless transmission of data from remote sources. 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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Definition
14 Nov 2022
phase
In electronic signaling, a phase is the position of a wave at a point in time (instant) on a waveform cycle. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Nov 2022
leaky bucket algorithm
The leaky bucket algorithm is a "traffic shaping" algorithm to reduce the load the transport layer places on the network layer and reduce congestion in 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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Definition
09 Nov 2022
CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service)
Citizens Broadband Radio Service, or CBRS, is the set of operational rules given to a slice of the shared wireless spectrum and the technologies used in that spectrum. 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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Definition
02 Nov 2022
standing wave ratio (SWR)
Standing wave ratio (SWR) is the ratio of the maximum magnitude or amplitude of a standing wave to its minimum magnitude. 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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Definition
25 Oct 2022
wireless mesh network (WMN)
A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a mesh network created through the connection of wireless access point (WAP) nodes installed at each network user's locale. 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
- Definition 19 Oct 2022
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Definition
04 Oct 2022
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
- Definition 28 Sep 2022
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Definition
22 Sep 2022
Wi-Fi 6
Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, is the latest generation and standard for wireless networking that replaces the 802.11ac, or Wi-Fi 5, standard. 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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Definition
08 Sep 2022
line of sight (LOS)
Line of sight (LOS) is the imaginary line between an observer and the target. In communication, line of sight is the direct path from a transmitter to the receiver and the obstructions that may fall in that path. 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Answer
16 Nov 2021
Does Wi-Fi 6 have better range than previous wireless standards?
Yes, Wi-Fi 6 provides better wireless range. But it's not because of higher power output. The key is certain Wi-Fi 6 features can improve data rates at a given range. 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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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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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
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 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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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
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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Feature
18 May 2020
Determine when 5G and edge computing fit IoT best
Improvements in connectivity and compute technology mean that organizations must decide if the cloud is still the best place for IoT data or if they should move to the edge. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 May 2020
Discover realistic 5G IoT use cases that add value
When looking to apply 5G in IoT use cases, IoT leaders must think more about the combination of new edge devices and applications than about the new version of wireless. 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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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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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
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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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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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