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Telecoms.com editor Scott Bicheno interviewed Metin Taskin at this year’s Network X.

Metin shared how Airties’ leading software solutions help ISPs reduce churn, lower costs, and boost revenue by dramatically enhancing the quality of subscribers’ broadband experiences.

He also discussed recent customer deployments with T-Mobile; Turknet, and Cox; a new partnership with NAGRA around network security; Airties Orbit, our continuous test automation platform; and our commitment to software R&D, including our new office in India focused on enhancing the AI capabilities of Airties’ Smart Wi-Fi solutions.

RUCKUS Edge extends the capabilities of the AI-driven RUCKUS One® platform to the network edge, delivering faster, more secure, and simplified service management for high-performance, low-latency experiences across MDUs, hospitality, and educational institutions.

 

The demand for high performance, always on, network connectivity, that is easy to deploy and manage has skyrocketed. Whether it’s providing seamless streaming services across the campus in multi-dwelling units (MDUs), enabling real-time guest services in hospitality, or ensuring consistent access to cloud-based learning tools in educational institutions, the pressure is on to deliver high-quality, low-latency network experiences.

While cloud-based applications are powerful, effortless to deploy, and accessible from anywhere, they can sometimes fail to meet the split-second response time expectations of today’s tech-savvy users.  The RUCKUS Edge service delivery platform is designed to extend the capabilities of the AI driven, cloud-based RUCKUS One® platform to the network edge, delivering faster performance, greater security, and simplified management.

What is RUCKUS Edge?

At its core, the RUCKUS Edge  Services Delivery Platform brings the power of the RUCKUS One cloud platform to the edge of the network. By doing so, it transforms how services are deployed and managed, enabling organizations to deliver high-performance, low-latency experiences right where they’re needed most—whether that’s in a university campus, a hotel room, or an apartment complex.

RUCKUS-Edge-Services-Delivery-Model

Figure 1: RUCKUS Edge appliance orchestrated by RUCKUS One cloud-based platform

Why did we build RUCKUS Edge?

The massive adoption of cloud-based applications in industries like hospitality, education, and MDUs has created new challenges. These include increased latency, data privacy concerns, and security risks. Traditional, centralized cloud models often struggle to meet the high-performance demands of these verticals, resulting in degraded service quality and increased vulnerability.

The RUCKUS Edge platform directly addresses these challenges by bringing service delivery to the edge of the network, closer to the user. By processing data locally, RUCKUS Edge reduces latency and strengthens security, resulting in a smoother, more responsive user experience.

In hospitality, for example, guests now expect real-time, personalized services, from booking to in-room experiences powered by IoT devices. Edge computing enables hotels to deliver these services quickly and efficiently, without the delays associated with centralized cloud models. Similarly, in MDUs, residents increasingly expect fast, reliable access to smart home applications, entertainment services, and high-speed internet—RUCKUS Edge delivers on these expectations, keeping residents satisfied and engaged.

Key Features of RUCKUS Edge

The RUCKUS Edge platform is built to solve the growing challenges of network performance, security, and management in distributed cloud-based environments. The integration of the RUCKUS One service catalog as a centralized hub for deploying RUCKUS Edge diverse array of services positions RUCKUS as a key player in the evolving landscape of hybrid enterprise . Here’s a look at the key features that make the RUCKUS Edge platform a must have for organizations in sectors like hospitality, MDUs, education, and beyond.

  1. Hybrid Cloud Management via RUCKUS One
    RUCKUS Edge is integrated with RUCKUS One, an AI Driven, hybrid cloud platform that centralizes network management across wired, wireless, and IoT networks. This means that network administrators, whether managing MDUs, campuses, or hotels, can control their entire network infrastructure from a single, intuitive interface. RUCKUS One streamlines everything from network configuration to monitoring and troubleshooting, reducing the need for on-site management. For large, geographically dispersed properties, this is a massive time-saver and helps to reduce operational complexity.

    With RUCKUS One, managing multiple network types becomes simple. You no longer need to manage separate systems for wired, wireless, and IoT environments. The platform provides a unified, holistic view of the entire network, making it easier to validate that every aspect of the infrastructure is running optimally.

  1. Local Breakout with Edge appliance
    The RUCKUS Edge appliance acts as the local service delivery point, handling traffic forwarding and breakout locally. For environments that experience high bandwidth usage, such as MDUs, college campuses, or hotels, this is crucial. Rather than backhauling traffic to the cloud, the edge appliance processes it locally, significantly reducing latency. This means faster response times for bandwidth-intensive applications like streaming, gaming, or real-time collaboration tools.

    In MDUs, for example, residents increasingly demand fast, reliable access to smart home applications and entertainment services. The RUCKUS Edge platform enables them to stream movies, play online games, or use their voice assistants wherever they are in the property without experiencing lag or service interruptions. Similarly, in educational institutions, students and faculty can access cloud-based learning platforms across the campus without the frustration of long loading times or dropped connections.

  1. Advanced Security and Privacy with VXLAN Based SD-LAN Tunneling
    Security is a top priority in today’s connected world, and the RUCKUS Edge platform is designed to ensure that users have secure, isolated access to network resources. This is achieved through VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) tunneling, which creates virtual Layer 2 networks over a Layer 3 infrastructure. In practice, this allows for network segmentation, enabling different user groups—whether they’re tenants in an apartment complex, students on a university campus, or guests at a hotel—to have secure, isolated access to the network.

    This level of security and privacy is especially important in environments where multiple groups of users require access to shared network infrastructure. For example, on a university campus, students, staff, visitors, and contractors all need network access, but it’s critical that their data remain private and secure. VXLAN enables each group to operate within its own secure virtual network, protecting data privacy and improving overall security.

  1. Seamless Wi-Fi® Roaming for Continuous Connectivity with SD-LAN
    One of the key challenges in large, distributed environments like MDUs or educational campuses is maintaining a seamless connection as users move from one area to another. The RUCKUS Edge platform enables seamless Wi-Fi roaming across an entire site without interrupting user connections, preserving connected devices’ IP addresses while users roam from one Wi-Fi access point (AP) to the next. This is particularly beneficial in environments where mobile connectivity is critical, such as for students moving between lecture halls, or tenants navigating a large residential complex.

    For example, tenants in MDUs can walk around their buildings with their devices, streaming music, making video calls, or controlling smart home devices, without ever losing their connection. The ability to roam seamlessly across the network improves the overall user experience and reduces the frustration caused by dropped connections.

  1.  AI-Driven Analytics, Automation and Assurance
    Network management can be complex, but the RUCKUS Edge platform makes it easier by leveraging AI-powered insights for network analytics, performance optimization, and automated issue detection and AI-driven resolution. This proactive approach means that potential network issues, such as bandwidth bottlenecks or overloaded access points, can be detected and resolved before they affect users.

    The AI engine embedded in the RUCKUS One platform delivers robust service assurance for IT and business intelligence to line-of-business stakeholders to help get the most from enterprise networks. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms, this cloud service simplifies life by automatically classifying service incidents by severity—tracing root causes and recommending steps for remediation.

    For environments like MDU, hotels, or universities where uninterrupted connectivity is critical, this level of automation helps prevent downtime and delivers always on access the services they need. AI-driven automation also reduces the burden on IT staff by automating routine tasks such as firmware updates, network optimization, and troubleshooting, freeing up valuable time and resources.

  1. Personal Identity Networks for a Personalized Experience via SD-LAN
    In environments like student housing or MDUs, where residents have multiple connected devices—smart TVs, gaming consoles, Wi-Fi speakers, etc.—the ability to personalize their network experience is key. RUCKUS Edge offers Personal Identity Networks* (PINs), allowing users to have their own personalized network segment that travels with them throughout the property.

    With a PIN, tenants or students can manage their devices as if they had their own private network, even when connected to shared infrastructure. This enhances the user experience by making it easier to connect and control devices while maintaining security and privacy across a shared network environment.

  1. Redundant Clusters for High Availability
    For organizations that require high availability and network resiliency, RUCKUS Edge offers the ability to deploy edge appliances in redundant active-active clusters. This means that if one appliance fails, other appliances within the cluster seamlessly take over without service interruption. Additionally, load is distributed across appliances within a cluster to increase capacity and maintain response time under heavy load. This level of protection is crucial for mission-critical environments where any amount of downtime can have significant consequences.

    Edge-Diagrams-Edge-Service-Delivery-3
    Figure 2: High Availability with RUCKUS Edge Active-Active Cluster

  1. Pay-as-You-Go Flexibility and Scalability
    One of the standout features of the RUCKUS Edge platform is its flexible, subscription-based pricing model. This allows organizations to pay only for the services they use, reducing total cost of ownership (TCO) while maintaining the flexibility to scale as needed. Whether you’re managing a small residential complex or a large, multi-building campus, RUCKUS Edge can scale with your needs.
  1. Flexible Deployment Options
    RUCKUS Edge can be deployed as virtual or physical appliances to meet the needs of organizations of all types and sizes

    Physical appliances: Plug and play RUCKUS Edge appliances are well suited for organizations that have “lean IT” departments with limited virtualization expertise or those that wish to further simplify deployments in tenant locations.

    Virtual appliances: RUCKUS Edge virtual appliances are targeted at organizations with specialized IT teams that have expertise in deploying a virtualized infrastructure across central and on-site locations.

SD-LAN: A RUCKUS Edge Service That Redefines Network Flexibility

As organizations move through their digital transformation, the demands on the network infrastructure rapidly evolves. Traditional network architectures struggle to keep pace with the dynamic requirements of modern environments like multi-dwelling units (MDUs), university campuses, enterprises, and hospitality venues. Enter SD-LAN (Software-Defined LAN), a powerful Edge service from RUCKUS, managed from the cloud that revolutionizes the way networks are designed, deployed, and managed.

SD-LAN brings advanced network virtualization and automation directly to the network edge. This next-gen networking solution offers organizations a new level of flexibility, allowing them to easily create and manage custom virtual overlay networks to meet the specific needs of different applications, users, or device types—all while simplifying network operations through centralized cloud management.

RUCKUS-SD-LAN-Edge-Service-Architecture

Figure 3: SD-LAN Edge Services Enable LAN Virtualization

Key Features of RUCKUS® SD-LAN

  1. Seamless SD-LAN Overlay Networks
    One of the most compelling features of SD-LAN is its ability to create seamless overlay networks on demand. These virtual networks, which can be configured in just a few clicks via the RUCKUS One interface, provide fine-grained control over network traffic, segmentation, and security. Each overlay can be customized to meet the unique needs of different user groups, applications, or device types. This allows organizations to offer tailored network experiences, whether for IoT devices in hospitality settings, resident networks in MDUs, or academic systems on college campuses.

    By leveraging VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) technology, RUCKUS SD-LAN allows Layer 2 networks to be extended over Layer 3 infrastructures. This makes it possible to create large-scale virtualized networks that span multiple physical locations, providing seamless connectivity and service consistency for distributed environments.

  1. Centralized Cloud Management
    As a RUCKUS Edge service, SD-LAN is fully managed via the RUCKUS One cloud platform, which provides a unified interface for network administrators to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot their networks across multiple sites. This centralized cloud management system eliminates the need for complex on-premises hardware, simplifying IT operations and reducing management overhead.

    Through the cloud-based interface, administrators can create and deploy SD-LAN overlays, assign network policies, and enforce security protocols—all from a single dashboard. This level of control not only streamlines network management but also makes it easier to enforce compliance with organizational policies and standards.

  1. Dynamic Traffic Segmentation and Security
    Security is a major concern for any network, especially in environments where multiple user groups share the same infrastructure. RUCKUS SD-LAN offers dynamic traffic segmentation, which isolates different user groups or applications into their own virtual network segments. This makes sure that each group operates independently and securely, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.

    For example, in an educational setting, students, faculty, contractors, and visitors each require different levels of network access. With RUCKUS SD-LAN, network administrators can easily create separate virtual networks for each group, making sure that sensitive data is kept private while providing each group with the connectivity and resources they need.

    Additionally, private LAN segments with customized services and devices discovery allow administrators to quickly deploy dedicated networks for specific use cases or applications. This level of network segmentation is essential for maintaining security in distributed environments like MDUs, hotels, and campuses.

  1. Scalable Architecture
    As organizations grow and their networking needs evolve, SD-LAN is designed to scale effortlessly. The system leverages cluster load balancing, to distribute workloads evenly across multiple edge appliances. This makes sure that network performance remains optimal, regardless of the size or complexity of the deployment.

    Whether managing a small office network or expanding to a large, multi-building campus environment, SD-LAN adapts to meet changing requirements, making it a future-proof solution for organizations that need flexibility and scalability.

  1.  Built on Open Standards
    SD-LAN is built on open standards, leveraging VXLAN over standard Ethernet and IP networks. This delivers compatibility with existing infrastructure and avoids vendor lock-in, making it easy for organizations to integrate SD-LAN into their current networks without the need for expensive proprietary hardware. This approach also allows for greater flexibility when upgrading or modernizing network infrastructure, ensuring that SD-LAN can evolve alongside your organization’s needs.

Key Benefits of RUCKUS SD-LAN

  1. Simplified Network Management
    By centralizing network management through the cloud and offering a simple, intuitive interface, RUCKUS SD-LAN reduces the complexity of managing distributed networks. Administrators can easily create virtual networks, enforce security policies, and monitor performance across multiple locations, all from a single platform.
  1. Improved Security and Privacy
    With advanced traffic segmentation, secure virtual networks, and AI-driven threat detection, RUCKUS SD-LAN enhances security across the board. This is particularly important for organizations that need to deliver data privacy while maintaining seamless network access for multiple user groups.
  1. Faster Service Delivery
    By processing network traffic at the edge through a local breakout and using SD-LAN overlays to optimize traffic flow, RUCKUS SD-LAN reduces latency and delivers faster response times for critical applications. This is especially beneficial in environments with high bandwidth demands, such as MDUs or educational institutions.
  1. Enhanced User Experience
    With seamless Wi-Fi roaming, personalized network segments, and low-latency service delivery, SD-LAN from RUCKUS provides users with a consistently high-quality network experience. Whether it’s residents in MDUs streaming entertainment, students accessing online learning tools, or guests using smart IoT devices, users can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity wherever they go.
  1. Cost-Effective Scalability
    The pay-as-you-go model and scalable architecture of SD-LAN make it a cost-effective solution for organizations of any size. Whether deploying in a small office or scaling to a large campus, SD-LAN grows with your organization, making sure that you only pay for the resources you need.

SD-LAN is more than just a networking solution—it’s a complete transformation of how organizations manage, secure, and optimize their networks. With its advanced features, AI-driven automation, and flexible, cloud-based architecture, SD-LAN from RUCKUS combines the power of network virtualization for the LAN with the deployment simplicity of an edge service.

The Future of Service Delivery is at the Edge

As digital environments continue to evolve, the need for high-performance, secure, and scalable network solutions will only grow. The RUCKUS Edge platform is uniquely positioned to meet these demands, providing organizations with a powerful, flexible platform that extends cloud capabilities to the network edge. Whether you’re managing an apartment complex, a university campus, or a hotel chain, RUCKUS Edge delivers the performance, security, and flexibility needed to succeed in today’s digital-first world.

Learn more about RUCKUS Edge.

Austin, Texas – October 14, 2024 – Wi-Fi Alliance® – a leading advocate for Wi-Fi® connectivity – commends Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) for its forward-thinking decision to adopt new rules permitting the use of Very Low Power (VLP) devices in the 6 GHz frequency band. This progressive move underscores ISED’s commitment to ensuring that Canada’s digital ecosystem is prepared for a future that increasingly relies on ultra-fast, low-latency, and secure wireless communications.

“ISED’s decision marks a pivotal moment for Canada’s wireless industry,” said Alex Roytblat, Vice President of Worldwide Regulatory Affairs at Wi-Fi Alliance. “By opening the 6 GHz band to Very Low Power devices, ISED is empowering innovation across a multitude of sectors—healthcare, education, manufacturing, and beyond. This bold step reinforces Canada’s position as a leader in the global race toward advanced wireless connectivity and technology adoption.”

Wi-Fi Alliance is excited to continue working alongside ISED to drive innovation and ensure the successful implementation of these new rules. We look forward to seeing the transformative impact of 6 GHz Very Low Power devices on Canada’s connectivity landscape.

About Wi-Fi Alliance®  |  www.wi-fi.org
Wi-Fi Alliance® is the worldwide network of companies that brings you Wi-Fi®. Members of our collaboration forum come together from across the Wi-Fi ecosystem with the shared vision to connect everyone and everything, everywhere, while providing the best possible user experience. Since 2000, Wi-Fi Alliance has completed more than 80,000 Wi-Fi certifications. The Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ seal of approval designates products with proven interoperability, backward compatibility, and the highest industry-standard security protections in place. Today, Wi-Fi carries more than half of the Internet’s traffic in an ever-expanding variety of applications. Wi-Fi Alliance continues to drive the adoption and evolution of Wi-Fi, which billions of people rely on every day.

Follow Wi-Fi Alliance:
wi-fi.org/beacon
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facebook.com/wificertified
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linkedin.com/company/wi-fi-alliance
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ANAHEIM, California (October 7, 2024) Zyxel Networks, a leader in delivering secure, AI- and cloud-powered business and home networking solutions, will showcase their new XGS-PON OLT Chassis and 25 Gigabit Fiber Switches at WISPAPALOOZA 2024 in Las Vegas, October 15-17, 2024, from 12-5 p.m. in booth 308 on the show floor. In addition to showing their expanding portfolio of fiber access solutions for ISPs, Zyxel will debut a case study from a US ISP highlighting their use of more than 12,000 Zyxel switches to deliver reliable, high-performance internet throughout a major metropolitan city.Zyxel’s portfolio of reliable, cutting-edge fiber infrastructure solutions is designed to provide ISPs with reliable, high performance, and cost-effective solutions for the fiber access layer of their networks as well as a range of switches suited to distributing internet services in large buildings, apartment complexes, and homes. These flexible, high-performance products are ideal for providing reliable connectivity for hospitality venues, educational institutions, and high-density residential areas.

 

25 Gigabit Fiber Access Switch Delivers Reliable High-Speed Last Mile Internet Connectivity

Attendees visiting the Zyxel booth will receive a first look at the CX4800-56F 48-port 25G/10G L3 Aggregation Fiber Switch with 8 100G Uplinks. Zyxel’s 1U, layer 3 CX4800-56F switch features 48 x 10GbE/25GbE SFP28 ports and 8 x 100GbE QSFP28 uplink ports. A network AV mode increases efficiency for professional AVoIP networking setups and monitoring services.

NebulaFlex Pro allows users to manage CX4800-56F as a standalone device or in the intuitive Nebula cloud-managed mode with the bundled one-year Nebula Professional Pack. Hot-swappable fan modules safeguard against fan failure or rising temperatures, and dual redundant power supplies are hot-swappable to prevent system downtime in the event of a power supply outage.

 

XGS-PON 10 Gigabit Fiber Chassis OLT

Zyxel’s IES4204 Series 2U 4-slot Temperature-Hardened Chassis MSAN/XGS-PON OLT supports XGS-PON and GPON access. IES4204 Series features two service slots that work with XGS-PON or GPON service line cards, allowing service providers to deploy triple-play services and freely choose uplink types to easily adapt to the existing infrastructures.

“Zyxel is excited to participate in WISPAPALOOZA this year as they celebrate 20 years of broadband innovation,” stated David Soares, Executive Vice President Channel Sales and Marketing North America for Zyxel Networks. “We’re eager to showcase our growing portfolio of fiber infrastructure solutions and show WISPs how Zyxel can support their mission to deliver reliable, high-speed internet access across the country.”

For more information about Zyxel, its connectivity solutions, and the Zyxel Authorized Partner Program, visit www.zyxel.com/us and follow us on FacebookX(formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn.

About Zyxel:

Zyxel Networks is a technology provider with over 30 years of experience, specializing in delivering solutions for small to medium-sized businesses and the enterprise-edge in partnership with VARs, MSPs and System Integrators. We enable network professionals to connect and protect organizations with greater ease by bringing together intuitive, scalable and secure cloud management with a complete portfolio of network devices.

The renowned Hibiscus Hotel Company chooses the most secure and robust professional Wi-Fi network solution for its establishments.

 

Hibiscus Hotels began in 1986 with the opening of Hotel Floresta, followed by three more properties, including Hotel Las Costas and Lanzarote Village, known for their quality and prime locations. This family-owned company was officially founded with these additions. In 2018, they opened Lava Beach Hotel, the first 5-star hotel in Puerto del Carmen, marking a new milestone.

Hibiscus Hotels aims to be a leader in sustainable tourism in Lanzarote, prioritizing customer satisfaction along with social and environmental responsibility, driven by innovation and teamwork. With 812 rooms, it is the largest hotel operator in Puerto del Carmen, offering personalized service and premium locations. To meet guest expectations, the Wi-Fi installation required top-tier performance.

The Benefits:

  • Corporate-grade WiFi 6 solution designed for hospitality, offering high performance at an affordable cost.
  • Quick and easy installation with minimal disruption to hotel operations.
  • Exceptional signal strength and speeds (Wi-Fi: 3.6 Gbps / Ethernet: 2.5 Gbps).
  • Full backward compatibility with ac/b/g/n devices.
  • Regular firmware updates with no licensing fees.
  • Incorporates advanced technologies like MESH, OFDMA, MU-MIMO, Fast Roaming, 1024-QAM, and WPA3 security.
  • Enhanced speeds through 4x4x4 technology and a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port.
  • High client capacity, supporting up to 1,000 simultaneous users.
  • Multiple concurrent radios, enabling support for augmented reality and 16K Ultra High Definition content.

Operational Advantages:

The hotels already utilized EnGenius Networks equipment, including the reliable EzMaster series and EnStation6 Radio-Link for VLAN trunking to remote areas. The proposed upgrade modernizes this setup by migrating to the EnGenius Cloud platform for centralized equipment management. The goal is to deliver top-tier connectivity to tourists with high daily bandwidth needs.

Sertelan, led by Manager Manuel González Vega, who has over 35 years of experience in wired and wireless infrastructure deployments, conducted a thorough analysis of the hotel’s requirements. Along with technical consultant Jorge Rocafort Cimadevila, they recommended the EnGenius ECW230 model for high-density areas. This solution provides exceptional data transfer rates at a highly competitive cost-performance ratio, meeting the client’s connectivity demands.

In outdoor areas such as pools, restaurants, and gardens, ECW260 Wi-Fi 6 outdoor equipment was deployed, featuring IP67 certification to withstand humidity and salt exposure. The ECW260 supports up to 1,000 simultaneous connections and delivers transfer rates of up to 1,900 Mbps, with extended range and high sensitivity thanks to its external antennas.

The EnGenius Cloud platform allows both local and remote network management, enabling the integrator and customer to maintain full control under any circumstances. Additionally, the AVXPress solution offers advanced traffic management, allowing prioritization of specific content types.

EnGenius Managed Solution

For the deployment, ECS2512FP PoE++ multi-gigabit switches were used, providing 2.5 Gbps connectivity and SFP+ ports for optimal speed and stability. These ECS switches, part of the EnGenius Cloud family, offer comprehensive management through both the Cloud platform and local interfaces. Configuration and control are available via web or the Cloud2Go mobile platform.
Network management is fully centralized, with a control panel supporting unlimited sites at no additional cost, along with advanced PRO features to streamline administration and updates.

The installation was completed in record time, with access points deployed across both indoor and outdoor common areas. All access points were pre-configured remotely, directly from their packaging, resulting in significant time and labor savings. After configuration, the installation only required the physical connection of the equipment, which was completed in just one day.

Roberto Reyes, General Manager of Hibiscus Hotels, stated:

“At Hibiscus, we always strive for excellence, and we understand that connectivity is crucial in today’s world. That’s why we decided to upgrade our common areas with the most reliable, cutting-edge technology, partnering with our trusted installer, who confidently recommended the EnGenius Networks range.”

Manuel González Vega, Manager of Sertelan, commented:

“From our first installation with EnGenius Networks products years ago, we’ve experienced their unmatched reliability and robustness compared to other brands. The intuitive configuration and remote maintenance capabilities allow us to offer our clients great peace of mind with their Wi-Fi installations.”

Jorge Rocafort Cimadevila, Engineering Consultant at Imaro, stated:

“When Sertelan consulted me on the best solution to implement, it was immediately clear that the EnGenius range was ideal for high-concurrency deployments. Its cloud-based remote management capabilities and flexible configuration options offer a significant advantage, allowing me to perform my work as efficiently as possible.”

New Custom Part Manufacturing Service (CPMS) and Device Attestation Certificates (DAC) Injection Streamline Security Implementation for Matter-Certified IoT Devices

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Silicon Labs (NASDAQ: SLAB), a leader in secure, intelligent wireless technology, in partnership with Kudelski IoT, a division of the Kudelski Group (SIX: KUD.S) and a global leader in digital security and IoT solutions, today announced a new solution to accelerate the time to market for Matter-certified IoT devices. The collaboration integrates Kudelski IoT’s Matter Device Attestation Certificates (DAC) into Silicon Labs’ Custom Part Manufacturing Service (CPMS), enabling device makers to build Zero Trust security from the foundry to customers’ doorsteps, which ultimately saves time and costs.

The Zero Trust approach, with its “never trust, always verify” principle and continuous authentication, is fundamental to Matter, a unifying, IP-based connectivity protocol. Matter mandates unique device authentication certificates using Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for robust security. While this framework significantly enhances IoT device protection, it also introduces new complexities for manufacturers, particularly in securely obtaining and transferring certificates from Certificate Authorities to production facilities.

By combining Silicon Labs’ secure, economical, and trusted manufacturing capabilities with Kudelski’s certified Matter PKI service, IoT manufacturers can now have Matter DACs securely injected during production, streamlining the path to Matter volume manufacturing.

“The Matter volume production doesn’t have to be a complex hurdle,” said Rohit Ravichandran, product manager for security and services at Silicon Labs. “Our first-of-its-kind secure provisioning service, along with Kudelski IoT’s expertise and PKI services, will enable manufacturers to focus on innovation without compromising on security.”

The integrated CPMS and DAC injection service provides several key benefits:

  • Secure injection of signed DACs at Silicon Labs-designated factories
  • Simplified key management and reduced manufacturing complexity
  • Accelerated time-to-market for Matter-certified products
  • Enhanced protection against counterfeiting and overproduction

“Kudelski IoT’s Matter Product Attestation Certificate Service does the heavy lifting for you, allowing you to join the Matter ecosystem easily,” said Chrystophe Clément, principal architect at Kudelski IoT. “We’re excited to partner with Silicon Labs to scale Matter adoption and reduce the burdens for manufacturers.”

Silicon Labs Matter DAC injection is available now for Silicon Labs’ MG24 wireless SoCs and modules with Secure Vault technology. After completing product development and obtaining Matter certification through the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), manufacturers can easily place orders through the Silicon Labs CPMS web portal. Silicon Labs will then ship sample parts within 4-6 weeks for testing and validation, after which volume orders can be placed.

Learn more about Silicon Labs’ CPMS for Matter devices here.

About Silicon Labs
Silicon Labs (NASDAQ: SLAB) is a leader in secure, intelligent wireless technology for a more connected world. Our integrated hardware and software platform, intuitive development tools, unmatched ecosystem and robust support make us the ideal long-term partner in building advanced industrial, commercial, home and life applications. We make it easy for developers to solve complex wireless challenges throughout the product lifecycle and get to market quickly with innovative solutions that transform industries, grow economies and improve lives. Silabs.com

About Kudelski IoT
Kudelski IoT is the Internet of Things division of Kudelski Group and provides end-to-end IoT solutions, IoT product design, and full-lifecycle services to IoT device manufacturers, ecosystem creators, and end-user companies. These solutions and services leverage the group’s 30+ years of innovation in digital business model creation; hardware, software and ecosystem design and testing; state-of-the-art security lifecycle management technologies and services and managed operation of complex systems. For more information about Kudelski IoT, please visit www.kudelski-iot.com.

 

SOURCE Silicon Labs

Is your company’s Wi-Fi network inadvertently opening doors to cyber threats? Are employees and visitors putting company data at risk every time they connect their personal devices? With over 60% of data breaches linked to unsecured network access, understanding your Wi-Fi setup has never been more critical.

The convenience of wireless connectivity has blurred the lines between accessibility and security, making it essential for businesses to differentiate between guest Wi-Fi, regular Wi-Fi, and public Wi-Fi to protect sensitive information.

This article explores the differences between these types of networks, the risks associated with public Wi-Fi, the advantages of implementing guest Wi-Fi, and practical steps to safeguard your business. We’ll delve into how choosing the right Wi-Fi setup can enhance user experience while maintaining robust security measures.

Defining Guest Wi-Fi, Regular Wi-Fi, and Public Wi-Fi

What is Regular Wi-Fi?

Regular Wi-Fi refers to the primary wireless network used internally by a company’s employees. It provides access to internal resources, applications, and sensitive company data. Security measures typically include strong encryption protocols like WPA3 and authentication methods such as WPA2-Enterprise. Access is restricted to authorized personnel, making this network critical for daily business operations and requiring robust protection against unauthorized access.

What is Guest Wi-Fi?

Guest Wi-Fi is a separate network provided by businesses for visitors and employees’ personal devices. It requires authentication, such as a password or login credentials, but is segregated from the company’s regular Wi-Fi network. This segregation ensures that guests cannot access internal resources or sensitive data. Guest Wi-Fi protection includes encryption, authentication, and the implementation of Wi-Fi filters to control access and monitor usage, enhancing overall network security.

What is Public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi refers to open networks accessible to anyone within range, commonly found in public spaces like airports, cafes, and parks. These networks are typically unencrypted and unsecured, lacking authentication requirements. Public Wi-Fi protection is minimal, making them vulnerable to cyber threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks, data interception, and malware distribution.

Guest or Public Networks–Which is Safer?

Guest networks are safer due to controlled access and enhanced security measures, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks.Guest Wi-Fi includes security features like encryption and authentication, while public Wi-Fi lacks these protections.

Guest Wi-Fi vs. Public Wi-Fi Comparison

Use Case/Application Guest Wi-Fi Public Wi-Fi
Internet Browsing ✔️ Common in offices, hotels ✔️ Common in cafes, parks
Email Access ✔️ Professional environments ✔️ Public venues, airports
Social Media ✔️ Hotels, waiting areas ✔️ Cafes, public squares
Online Shopping ✔️ Retail stores, showrooms ✔️ Shopping malls
Communication Apps ✔️ Conference centers ✔️ Travel hubs
Basic Work Tasks ✔️ Business meetings ✔️ Libraries, educational institutions
Security Level ✔️ High (password-protected) ❌ Low (open access)
User Authentication ✔️ Requires password/credentials Open access, login page
Access Restrictions ✔️ Restricted (content control) ❌ Minimal restrictions
Network Traffic Management ✔️ Controlled, limited users ❌ Open, high traffic
Usage Policies ✔️ Defined by host ❌ Broad access policies
Device Support ✔️ Limited number of devices ❌ Designed for many devices
Purpose ✔️ Visitor use in businesses ❌ Public access in communal areas
Network Isolation ✔️ Isolated from internal network ❌ Single network (no isolation)
Best For ✔️ Corporate offices, hotels, healthcare, professional services Airports, parks, malls, cafes, public libraries

 

The Risks of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks are ubiquitous, offering convenient internet access in places like airports, cafes, hotels, and parks. Designed to prioritize ease of access, public Wi-Fi typically allows anyone within range to connect with minimal barriers. While this accessibility is undeniably convenient, it comes at the cost of security. Public Wi-Fi networks often lack robust protective measures, making them prime targets for cyber threats. Understanding the risks associated with public Wi-Fi is essential for both users and providers to protect sensitive data and maintain network integrity.

Lack of Encryption and Authentication

Public Wi-Fi networks are typically open and unencrypted, meaning data transmitted over these networks is not secured. Without encryption, any information sent or received—such as emails, passwords, or financial details—can be intercepted by malicious actors using simple tools.

Man-in-the-Middle Attacks

One of the most common threats on public Wi-Fi is the man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack. In this scenario, a hacker intercepts communication between the user and the internet, potentially altering or stealing sensitive data without the user’s knowledge.

Rogue Hotspots and Evil Twin Attacks

Cybercriminals may set up rogue hotspots or “evil twin” networks that mimic legitimate public Wi-Fi networks. Unsuspecting users connect to these fake networks, inadvertently giving attackers access to their devices and data.

Malware Distribution

Unsecured networks can be used to distribute malware. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in a user’s device to install malicious software, which can lead to data theft, device hijacking, or inclusion in a botnet for larger-scale attacks.

What are the main challenges of protecting Public Wi-Fi?
Difficulty to Implement Security 

Public Wi-Fi providers often prioritize accessibility over security. Implementing strong security measures can complicate the user experience, potentially deterring customers from using the service.

Users Unaware

Many users are unaware of the risks associated with public Wi-Fi. They may not use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or other protective measures, leaving their devices and data exposed.

Limited Resources

Smaller businesses offering public Wi-Fi might lack the resources or expertise to implement advanced security protocols, making their networks particularly vulnerable to exploitation.

 

The Advantages of Guest Wi-Fi

In contrast to public Wi-Fi, guest Wi-Fi offers a secure and controlled environment for both businesses and users. Implementing a guest Wi-Fi network can significantly reduce security risks while enhancing user experience. Here’s how guest Wi-Fi stands out as a superior option for protecting your network and data.

The Advantages of Guest Wi-Fi Protections
Enhanced Security Measures

Guest Wi-Fi networks are designed with security in mind. By creating a separate network for guests and employee personal devices, businesses can isolate their main internal network from potential threats. This network segmentation ensures that even if the guest network is compromised, sensitive company data and systems remain protected.

Use of Encryption and Authentication

Guest networks typically employ strong encryption protocols like WPA3, ensuring that data transmitted over the network is secure. Requiring users to authenticate— whether through a password, voucher system, or captive portal—adds an additional layer of security by preventing unauthorized access.

Implementation of Wi-Fi Filters and Firewalls

Wi-Fi filters can block access to malicious websites and restrict the download of harmful files. Firewalls monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, acting as a barrier between secure internal networks and untrusted external networks such as the internet.

 

Control and Customization with Wi-Fi Filters

Content Filtering

Businesses can use Wi-Fi filters to manage the type of content accessible over their guest network. This includes blocking sites that are inappropriate or pose security risks, such as those containing malware or phishing schemes. Content filtering not only enhances security but also helps maintain a professional environment.

User Policies and Network Monitoring

Implementing user policies allows businesses to define acceptable use of the guest network. Policies can limit bandwidth per user, restrict certain types of traffic (like streaming or peer-to-peer sharing), and set time limits for access. Network monitoring tools provide real-time insights into network usage, helping administrators identify and address unusual activity promptly.

Device Management

Advanced guest Wi-Fi systems enable businesses to manage connected devices actively. They can detect unauthorized devices, enforce compliance checks, and even push security updates or restrictions to ensure all connected devices meet the company’s security standards.

TL;DR

In today’s interconnected world, providing Wi-Fi access is a necessity for businesses across various industries. However, this convenience comes with the responsibility to protect company data and user information from constant cyber threats. Understanding the differences between guest Wi-Fi, regular Wi-Fi, and public Wi-Fi is crucial for making informed decisions about network security.

RUCKUS Edge extends the AI-driven RUCKUS One cloud platform to the edge—enabling centralized control and performance management for networking, security, productivity and purpose-driven industry vertical services deployed at the edge

October 21, 2024 Claremont, NC

CommScope (NASDAQ: COMM), a global leader in network connectivity, announced today the launch of its RUCKUS Edge cloud-managed edge platform for service delivery. Built on the AI-driven RUCKUS One® network assurance and business intelligence platform—the RUCKUS Edge platform extends the cloud-based RUCKUS One platform to the edge of the network to enable the rapid deployment and simplified management of a variety of services and applications.

The RUCKUS Edge platform utilizes AI-enabled cloud-based orchestration, together with an edge appliance as a local service delivery point, to enable customers to deploy scalable, low-latency networking, security, and productivity services as well as purpose-driven industry specific vertical services.

RUCKUS Edge is fully integrated with the RUCKUS One platform, retaining advantages of AI-driven assurance and cloud-based management. At launch, the solution will offer a zero-touch, virtual LAN service called SD-LAN, available in the RUCKUS One service catalog that customers can deploy onto the RUCKUS Edge appliance with a single click.

“RUCKUS Edge is a significant product enhancement that enables lower latency and enhanced service resiliency for businesses seeking to manage their networks using cloud-management services,” said Chris DePuy, founder and technology analyst, 650 Group. “Additionally, by extending the company’s RUCKUS One service catalog to its Edge system, the company can enable the deployment of a diverse array of services from both RUCKUS and third-party offerings. We see the company’s service catalog approach will enable a means of incrementally offering AI services to improve network operations.”

Key Features and Benefits of RUCKUS Edge

  • Simplified Deployment and Management: Centralized cloud-managed platform automates tasks through web interface and mobile app to reduce operational complexity.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: RUCKUS Edge can scale to address the needs of a broad range of organizations from small to large. Multiple edge appliances can be clustered to load balance and distribute workloads across multiple devices.
  • Improved Security and Privacy: VXLAN based SD-LAN service enables isolated virtual network segments that can span across the campus, to provide different user groups with easy to deploy, secure and custom access to network resources.
  • Reduced Latency and Faster Data Transmission: The RUCKUS Edge appliance improves performance by processing traffic closer to the user.
  • Seamless Roaming Within the Site: The solution enables seamless Wi-Fi® roaming across campuses and properties without interrupting user connections, preserving connected devices’ IP addresses while users roam from one Wi-Fi AP to the next.
  • Pay-as-You-Go Model: Flexible, subscription-based pricing allows organizations to pay only for what they use, reducing total cost of ownership.
  • High Availability and Reliability: Redundant, clustered edge appliances can be deployed for critical sites to boost network resilience and minimize downtime.
  • AI-Driven Assurance and Insights: RUCKUS One leverages AI to deliver network assurance and enable IT to detect and resolve incidents before they impact services and users.
  • Converged Management Across IT and IoT/OT Networks: Hybrid cloud platform allows management of both wired and wireless LAN environments, as well as IoT networks, for seamless network integration and minimal operational silos.

“We’re taking a bold step forward by extending the capabilities of our AI-Driven network assurance and business intelligence platform, RUCKUS One, to the edge of the network,” stated Bart Giordano, SVP and president, Networking Intelligent Cellular and Security Solutions, CommScope. “The RUCKUS Edge platform enables RUCKUS Networks and its trusted technology partners to deliver a variety of networking, security, and productivity services at the edge of the network to enhance security, privacy, performance and user experience.”

Proven in Campus Network Deployments
“Deploying RUCKUS Edge has been a game-changer for Wewoka Public Schools,” said Stephen Howard, IT director, Wewoka Public Schools. “The simplified network configuration through overlay networks has significantly reduced resources required from our lean IT staff—minimizing the complexity of VLAN provisioning across switches and APs. Centralized, AI driven cloud-based management has streamlined our operations, making deployment and oversight much more efficient. Additionally, the automated guest internet access is seamless and secure, ensuring that our network remains protected while providing a smooth experience for visitors. RUCKUS Edge has truly transformed our approach to network management and security.”

“With the transformative shift to cloud, managing our campus networks with the combination of RUCKUS One and RUCKUS Edge has given us incredible visibility, scale and roaming capabilities,” said Jason Guntharp, associate director of Telecommunications and Information Services, Itawamba Community College. “With over 5,000 students and staff moving across our campuses daily, seamless Wi-Fi roaming has become crucial; RUCKUS Edge delivers a seamless experience throughout our campuses. Additionally, the ability to create custom virtual networks for student residents has empowered us to provide a personalized connectivity experience. RUCKUS has made it remarkably easy for our IT team to configure and manage our network efficiently.”

Availability and Demos
The RUCKUS Edge platform is available globally for RUCKUS One customers. At launch, the RUCKUS One catalog offers services developed by RUCKUS. The RUCKUS Edge and RUCKUS One platforms will be demonstrated at EDUCAUSE in San Antonio, TX, October 21-24, booth #8062. For more information, please visit the RUCKUS website.

–END–

CommScope and the CommScope logo are registered trademarks of CommScope and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. For additional trademark information see https://www.commscope.com/trademarks. Wi-Fi is a trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance. All other product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.

 

About CommScope:
CommScope (NASDAQ: COMM) is pushing the boundaries of technology to create the world’s most advanced wired and wireless networks. Our global team of employees, innovators and technologists empower customers to anticipate what’s next and invent what’s possible. Discover more at www.commscope.com.

New resources will accelerate Wi-Fi development for engineers and developers worldwide
SYDNEY and IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 17, 2024 – Morse Micro, the world’s leading provider of Wi-Fi HaLow solutions, today announced the launch of multiple open-source GitHub repositories, along with a Community Forum. This initiative offers a robust collection of assets, tools, and resources, designed to support and empower the global developer community. Both the repositories and forum are available for free, catering to engineers, developers, and tech enthusiasts interested in advancing Wi-Fi HaLow technology.
As of today, Morse Micro’s GitHub repositories contain the software and tools necessary to bring up Wi-Fi HaLow on Linux based projects. Additionally, the Morse Micro community, powered by Discourse, is a dedicated platform where users can engage in discussions, share knowledge, seek advice, troubleshoot and contribute to Wi-Fi HaLow-related projects. The forum also serves as a space to discuss broader connectivity topics, facilitating collaboration across the global Wi-Fi HaLow community.
By launching these resources, Morse Micro reinforces its commitment not only to advancing Wi-Fi HaLow technology but also to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. With these centralized platforms, developers and Morse Micro’s partners can access the latest software releases, seek expert guidance, and collaborate with peers to drive innovation.
“At Morse Micro, we believe in the power of community,” said Michael De Nil, co-founder and CEO of Morse Micro. “With over 100 million GitHub users and an ever-growing community on Discourse, we’re excited to create an environment where developers can connect, share ideas, and innovate together. Our goal is to make Wi-Fi HaLow technology more accessible, relevant, and adaptable to users’ needs while supporting skill development and industry-wide collaboration.”
 
Morse Micro’s GitHub repositories can be accessed here: https://github.com/MorseMicro
Morse Micro’s Community Forum can be accessed here: https://community.morsemicro.com/  
 
About Morse Micro
Morse Micro is a leading Wi-Fi HaLow fabless semiconductor company based in Sydney, with global offices. As the world’s premier Wi-Fi HaLow company, we pioneer next-gen IoT wireless connectivity solutions. Morse Micro is now sampling its Wi-Fi CERTIFIED HaLow MM6108 production silicon: the fastest, smallest, lowest power and longest-range Wi-Fi HaLow chip available in the market. Learn more at https://www.morsemicro.com/.

IRVINE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–TP-Link Systems Inc., a global leader in networking and smart home solutions, today announced the establishment of its new global headquarters in the United States. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for the company, solidifying its presence in the U.S. market and enhancing its global competitiveness.

“The relocation of our global headquarters to the United States represents a pivotal moment in TP-Link’s history, reinforcing our commitment to the U.S. market and enhancing our ability to innovate and compete on a global scale”

To support this move, TP-Link Global and TP-Link USA have merged to form TP-Link Systems Inc., serving as the parent company overseeing all regional and international offices. Previously, TP-Link operated dual headquarters in Singapore and Irvine, California. The new entity serves as the central hub for the company’s worldwide operations, with all offices reporting directly to the U.S.-based global headquarters.

“The relocation of our global headquarters to the United States represents a pivotal moment in TP-Link’s history, reinforcing our commitment to the U.S. market and enhancing our ability to innovate and compete on a global scale,” said Jeff Barney, the newly appointed president of TP-Link Systems Inc. “We’re dedicated to contributing to the local economy, creating jobs, and continuing to deliver innovative product offerings that meet the evolving needs of our customers in the U.S. and across the globe. By establishing our global headquarters here in the United States, we’re not just expanding our presence – we’re making a long-term commitment to American consumers and businesses.”

With more than 25 years of technology industry experience, Barney previously served as COO of TP-Link USA Corp., leading the rapid market share gains of the company’s retail business.

This strategic shift reinforces TP-Link’s dedication to product innovation and market leadership in the networking and smart home industries. Leveraging its global expertise and vision, TP-Link is poised to enter a new era of growth and innovation, with the United States at the center of its global operations.

For more information, please visit www.tp-link.com.

About TP-Link Systems Inc.

Headquartered in the United States, TP-Link Systems Inc. is a global provider of reliable networking devices and smart home products, consistently ranked as the world’s top provider of Wi-Fi devices. The company is committed to delivering innovative products that enhance people’s lives through faster, more reliable connectivity. With a commitment to excellence, TP-Link serves customers in over 170 countries and continues to grow its global footprint.