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ANAHEIM, California (August 7, 2024) Zyxel Networks, a leader in delivering secure, AI- and cloud-powered business and home networking solutions, announced today that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Zyxel Networks a winner of two 2024 CRN Tech Innovator Awards. Zyxel Networks is being recognized for its WBE660S BE22000 WiFi 7 Triple-Radio NebulaFlex Pro Access Point in the Wireless Networking category and the USG FLEX 700H Security Firewall Appliance in the Security category.

This annual award showcases innovative vendors in the IT channel across 37 distinct technology categories ranging from cloud to storage to networking to security. The 2024 winners were selected by a panel of CRN editors who reviewed hundreds of vendor entries and solution provider testimonials. Standout innovations were determined using multiple criteria, including key capabilities, uniqueness, technological ingenuity, and ability to address customer and partner needs.

Zyxel WBE660S BE22000 WiFi 7 Triple-Radio NebulaFlex Pro Access Point is the first shipping WiFi 7 access point designed for the SMB market and is the only SMB WiFi 7 access point that incorporates Smart Antenna technology. NebulaFlex provides users with the flexibility of managing the access point as a standalone device, with an on-premises controller, or via the cloud for free using the intuitive Nebula Control Center which enables users to manage a complete network of Nebula-compatible access points, security firewalls, and switches, from a single pane of glass. WBE660S incorporates a 10G Ethernet uplink that enables the access point to translate the BE22000-class wireless speeds into wired speeds on the rest of the network. In addition to 802.3bt PoE, WBE660S can also be powered from a standard USB-C power source. WBE660S integrates with Zyxel Networks security gateways to offer Collaborative Detection & Response (CDR) to block or quarantine compromised client devices at the network edge.

Zyxel USG FLEX 700H Security Firewall Appliance is a multi-gigabit 2.5G and 10G port advanced security firewall with built-in 30W PoE+ for high-speed UTM threat protection that supports increased WAN speeds without compromising network security. The firewall provides 15,000 Mbps SPI firewall throughput, 4,000 Mbps UTM throughput, and support for 2,000,000 concurrent sessions, bringing high-speed security for 2.5G WAN connections down to an SMB price point. USG FLEX 700H, which can be managed via the Nebula Cloud Management system, includes a complete suite of security services including anti-malware, intrusion prevention system (IPS), application patrol, web filtering, reputation filter, SecuReporter, sandboxing, device insight, and Secure WiFi. The versatile firewall features two multi-gigabit 2.5G ports, 2 multi-gigabit 10G ports with 802.3at 30W PoE++ support, eight 1G ports, and two 10G SFP+ ports with independently configurable ports for added flexibility.

“We are inspired by the commitment to continuous innovation among this year’s CRN Tech Innovator Award winners and finalists. Each of these technology vendors delivers cutting-edge offerings that meet evolving customer needs and create new opportunities for solution providers,” said Jennifer Follett, VP, U.S. Content, and Executive Editor, CRN, The Channel company. “We look forward to future innovations from the recipients and to seeing how they advance success across the channel.”

“We are honored to be recognized as winners in both the wireless networking and security categories by the CRN staff,” explained David Soares, Executive Vice President Channel Sales and Marketing North America for Zyxel Networks. “Zyxel is dedicated to delivering innovative networking products and solutions that maximize the performance, productivity, and security of SMBs, while providing the value, features, and support that enable our partners to grow and flourish. The receipt of the CRN Tech Innovator Awards in two categories definitely validates our efforts.”

The Tech Innovator Awards will be featured in the August issue of CRN and can be viewed online at crn.com/techinnovators.

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.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end users. Backed by more than 40 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

Follow The Channel Company: LinkedInFacebook, and X.

© 2024 The Channel Company, Inc. The Channel Company logo is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

San Jose, Calif. – Aug. 6, 2024 – NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTGR), the leading provider of networking products that power businesses of any size, announced the launch of the WBE710 Insight Manageable Tri-band WiFi 7 Access Point, the newest addition to the company’s WiFi 7 business access point lineup.

The number of devices with multi-gig capabilities is increasing, and upgrades to a business’s network must be made to meet the volume of data. As businesses scale and more WiFi 7-enabled devices enter the market, this need will only continue to become more critical. Based on the latest WiFi 7 technology, the WBE710 improves data throughput across multiple bands and reduces network congestion, surpassing older access points in speed, latency, and capacity. The access point will also solve issues around signal interference with preamble puncturing, which will soon be available, and will allow devices to use parts of different channels to transmit data, greatly reducing network congestion.

“We have only started to see the power of WiFi 7 since its announcement earlier this year,” said Iphie Chen, director of Product Management at NETGEAR. “Businesses of all sizes need to be considering not only how to handle the growth of existing devices but also the inevitable influx of WiFi 7-enabled devices into their work environments. The WBE710 offers the flexibility to have a powerful access point today, while being prepared for the needs of tomorrow.”

The WBE710 provides easy local management, plus optional centralized cloud management, with no additional hardware needed through NETGEAR’s Insight management solution. It also offers backwards compatibility with all the other NETGEAR Insight Manageable Wireless Access Points and with previous generation WiFi devices, ensuring that businesses that rely heavily on wireless internet for day-to-day operations can easily integrate it into their existing infrastructure.

Additional Capabilities

  • Unmatched 802.11be performance with up to 9.4Gbps throughput.
  • 8 separate wireless networks (SSIDs) can be configured. Ideal for businesses with many connected devices, such as wireless printers, laptops, cell phones, tablets, and more.
  • Includes a 2.5Gbps PoE+ Ethernet port for fast speed and easy wiring (ideal NETGEAR switches to power WBE710 are MS108TUP, MS324TXUP and MS510TXUP).
  • Simultaneously send and receive data on multiple bands with WiFi 7’s Multi-Link Operation.
  • Seamless roaming and load balancing for unrivaled user experience throughout the coverage area.
  • Dedicated wireless backhaul shared between other Pro WiFi APs to form a reliable Instant WiFi Mesh network.
  • MU-MIMO enables maximum client density deployments with no interference.
  • Compactly designed with fast ceiling or wall mounting to stylishly blend into any environment.
  • Optimized, omni-directional, integrated antennas for maximum RF performance and coverage.
  • One year of Insight Remote Management included.

NETGEAR’s Total Network Solution

The WBE710 is the latest addition to NETGEAR’s Total Network Solution. Combined with the PR60X Pro Router, the latest Multi-Gig PoE switches and NETGEAR Insight, this access point brings value and leading-edge functionality to a complete networking ecosystem that is easy to deploy, manage and monitor from a single pane of glass.

Available today, the WBE710 can be found at major retailers for $349.99.

About NETGEAR, Inc.

NETGEAR® (NASDAQ: NTGR) has pioneered advanced networking technologies for homes, businesses, and service providers around the world since 1996 and leads the industry with a broad range of award-winning products designed to simplify and improve people’s lives. By enabling people to collaborate and connect to a world of information and entertainment, NETGEAR is dedicated to delivering innovative and advanced connected solutions ranging from mobile and cloud-based services for enhanced control and security, to smart networking products, video over Ethernet for Pro AV applications, easy-to-use WiFi solutions and performance gaming routers to enhance online game play. The company is headquartered out of San Jose, Calif. with offices located around the globe. More information is available from the NETGEAR Press Room or by calling (408) 907-8000. Connect with NETGEAR: FacebookInstagram and the NETGEAR blog at NETGEAR.com.

©2024 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, NETGEAR Insight and the NETGEAR logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holder(s). The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. NETGEAR shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. All rights reserved.

 Source: NETGEAR-G

U.S. Media Contact:

Valerie Motis

Valerie.motis@NETGEAR.com

NETGEAR@AccesstheAgency.com

U.S. Sales Inquiries: (408) 907-8000, sales@netgear.com

Broadband internet subscriptions once seemed like a forever-growing cash generator for service providers. Unfortunately, the growth has plateaued in most developed markets, and the leading ISPs and telcos are now integrating new IoT capabilities on their Wi-Fi gateways in anticipation of the Smart Home transformation. However, simply putting a Thread 802.15.4 wireless chip in a CPE and rolling it out to millions of subscribers is not yet enough for a viable smart home business. In this blog, Christopher Ince from Silicon Labs explains seven aspects of IoT that ISP and telco leaders should consider in order to build a stickier smart home business.

Smart home vision

The Broadband Plateau

In just two decades, the number of global fixed broadband connections increased nearly eight-fold from 200 million to 1.5 billion. This historical growth era, which really took off at the advent of the millennium, has churned fortunes for internet service providers (ISPs) and telcos worldwide. Great cash cow, you might think. Well, it had its moment. Today, the fixed broadband markets in most developed countries have saturated, according to the OECD Broadband Portal. This has led to intense competition, increasing customer acquisition costs, price erosion, and churn, hitting the service providers’ bottom lines. In the USA alone, nearly 3,000 broadband ISPs are fighting for the dollars Americans pay every month to get the information highway flowing into their homes.

 

Smart Home Benefits to Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

The global ISP market was valued at USD 390 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 566 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 3.9% during this period. Despite promising industry forecasts, the old broadband growth strategies do not apply anymore, and service providers need new ways to grow business.

Bundling new smart home services and IoT connectivity technologies into broadband subscriptions has quickly become one of the most promising ways for the leading ISPs and tTelcos to accelerate their business.

Smart home and IoT provide many clear benefits to service providers – they can become the complete provider of wireless IoT home connectivity alongside Wi-Fi, managing and optimizing connectivity for all types of IoT devices used in homes today and in the future. Owning the home IoT infrastructure, e.g., OpenThread Border Router (OTBR) capability, allows service providers to claim a strategic position in the greater smart home ecosystem and do meaningful and sustained business alongside global smart home brands such as Amazon, Apple, Google, and Samsung. Smart Home and IoT services also help service providers enable new revenue sources, improve customer value-add, and strengthen customer retention, thus improving subscription business and reducing churn.

Facts isp and telecom leaders should know about iot fig1

Figure 1 Internet Service Providers are transforming their legacy Wi-Fi CPE base into a multi-protocol IoT home infrastructure by adding Thread 802.15.4 and other low-power wireless protocols to complement Wi-Fi.

Seven IoT Aspects ISP and Telco Leaders Should Consider

We are witnessing a trend of ISPs and telcos recognizing that it is their role to own the wireless IoT infrastructure of connected smart homes. However, simply integrating a Thread 802.15.4 wireless chip inside Wi-Fi home gateways and rolling them out to millions of subscribers is not yet enough. There are seven critical aspects of IoT that ISP and telecom leaders should consider before locking their smart home strategies:

  1. IoT Infrastructure – The existing legacy CPEs typically support Wi-Fi connectivity only. However, the smart home IoT device market is proliferating rapidly, and Wi-Fi is not optimal for all device types. In fact, many emerging IoT devices will use a more energy-efficient and lightweight mesh connectivity technology such as Thread. So, building a scalable and future-proof IoT home infrastructure that supports Wi-Fi, Thread, and even other wireless IoT connectivity technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy (LE), is the first step service providers should consider. How to choose the right set of IoT technologies that allow you to cover all home IoT connectivity needs today and in the future? Silicon Labs has years of experience in helping service providers and gateway manufacturers to enable optimized wireless multi-protocol IoT solutions such as OpenThread Border Router (OTBR) on gateways.
  2. Matter Gateway – As described earlier, enabling wireless IoT infrastructure is the first step toward a scalable and future-proof smart home business. However, if you want to enhance your business from a mere IoT connectivity provider to offering value-added smart home applications to your customers, Silicon Labs’ multiprotocol wireless SoCs, MG21 and MG24, enable the Matter Gateway capability on your CPE, allowing you to increase revenue through your own, branded Matter ecosystem, bundle devices of any manufacturer via the Matter protocol, and allow users to control them all via your App, Amazon, Apple, Google, and, Samsung.
  3. Wireless Performance – Every home imposes a unique combination of wireless challenges to service providers – concrete walls, metal surfaces, windows, and other sources of interference can deteriorate user experience, burden your customer service centers, and increase operational costs. As a service provider, you must optimize IoT wireless performance on your gateways to enhance user experience, regardless of where the gateway sits in any given home environment. Silicon Labs IoT solutions are renowned for their superior wireless performance – such as the MG24 multi-protocol chip that offers the market-leading link budget and antenna diversity, delivering efficient connectivity in every corner of the home and beyond.
  4. Wi-Fi Co-existence – With the legacy Wi-Fi-only home gateways, service providers didn’t have to worry about 2.4 GHz multi-radio/multi-protocol interference. However, with smart home gateways combining Wi-Fi and IoT radios such as Thread, you will face a new challenge: how to manage Wi-Fi co-existence? Silicon Labs can help you to design the most effective Wi-Fi co-existence solution on your gateway using, e.g., our advanced Packet Transmission Arbitration (PTA) and the patent-pending Signal Identifier capabilities.
  5. Energy Consumption – Energy regulations such as the new, stricter EU Ecodesign Standby Regulation 2023/826 (HiNA) effective 2027, will limit the standby power consumption of consumer CPE down to ≤7W, forcing service providers to reduce the gateway power consumption radically. Silicon Labs provides you with many innovations for more energy-efficient gateway design – for example, you can allow users or network operators to turn the power-hungry Wi-Fi transceiver off and on remotely during nights, weekends, or vacations using our patent pending Thread solution, or Bluetooth LE.
  6. Platform Integration – Building an IoT infrastructure that scales to millions of homes and supports new devices, services, and connectivity technologies for years to come requires seamless integration of dozens of building blocks. Managing them can become an integration nightmare. To make things easier for service providers, Silicon Labs offers an end-to-end one-stop-shop solution for building a scalable and future-proof IoT home infrastructure. This includes high-performance and ultra-low-power multiprotocol wireless processors, pre-verified wireless software stacks, tools, security, always up-to-date Matter implementation, online Matter Developer Journey, and a Connectivity Lab where you can test your gateways and devices in a friendly environment before taking the official certification tests.
  7. Interoperability – A smart home solution without seamless interoperability between gateways, devices, protocols, and ecosystems is like a symphony orchestra without a conductor. If the devices are not playing the same tune, the user experience suffers, customers are frustrated, and vote with their feet. Silicon Labs has worked for decades to become the conductor of the smart home industry – we provide tested and verified wireless IoT and Matter solutions to both, gateway and device makers, allowing us to perfect our standards compliancy and system interoperability, ensuring that you can build a smart home experience where every component plays the same tune.

In today’s digital age, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to connect with their customers. One of the most effective yet often overlooked methods is WiFi marketing. This powerful tool leverages an existing WiFi network to create a seamless and engaging customer experience while providing businesses with valuable data and marketing opportunities. As we move into 2024, here are six compelling reasons why businesses should implement WiFi marketing solutions.

1. Enhanced Customer Experience with WiFi Marketing

Seamless Connectivity: Offering free WiFi to customers can significantly enhance their experience. Whether they are waiting in a restaurant, shopping in a store, or staying in a hotel, access to fast and reliable WiFi allows customers to stay connected and entertained. This convenience can lead to increased satisfaction and longer dwell times, which can translate into higher sales.

Personalized Engagement: WiFi marketing platforms, such as GoZone WiFi, allow businesses to create personalized engagement opportunities. When customers log in to the WiFi network, they can be greeted with tailored messages, promotions, and recommendations based on their preferences and previous interactions.

2. Data Collection and Analytics Through WiFi Marketing

Valuable Insights: WiFi marketing solutions enable businesses to collect valuable data on customer behavior, preferences, and demographics. This information can be used to understand customer patterns, identify popular products or services, and tailor marketing strategies accordingly.

Improved Decision Making: With detailed analytics, businesses can make data-driven decisions to optimize their operations and marketing efforts. For instance, analyzing foot traffic data can help retailers determine peak shopping times and adjust staffing levels accordingly.

3. Targeted Marketing Campaigns via WiFi Marketing

Effective Promotions: WiFi marketing allows businesses to create highly targeted marketing campaigns. By analyzing the data collected through WiFi networks, businesses can segment their audience and send personalized promotions, offers, and advertisements directly to customers’ devices.

Increased Conversion Rates: Targeted marketing campaigns are more likely to resonate with customers, leading to higher engagement and conversion rates. For example, a coffee shop can send a discount code for a popular drink to customers who have previously purchased similar items.

4. Customer Loyalty and Retention with WiFi Marketing

Loyalty: WiFi marketing platforms can drive engagement with loyalty platforms, making it easy for customers to sign up and participate. Businesses can reward customers for their loyalty with exclusive offers, discounts, and points that can be redeemed for future purchases.

Enhanced Customer Relationships: By consistently engaging with customers through WiFi marketing, businesses can build stronger relationships and foster loyalty. Regular communication and personalized offers show customers that their business is valued, encouraging repeat visits.

5. Increased Brand Awareness Through WiFi Marketing

Brand Visibility: Offering free WiFi can increase brand visibility and awareness. When customers connect to a business’s WiFi network, they often encounter a branded splash page with the company’s logo, promotions, and other information. This consistent exposure reinforces brand identity and keeps the business top of mind.

Social Media Integration: WiFi marketing can also encourage social media engagement. For example, businesses can prompt customers to check in on social media or share their experience in exchange for free WiFi access, further amplifying brand reach and visibility.

6. Competitive Advantage with WiFi Marketing

Stand Out from Competitors: In a competitive market, offering free WiFi and leveraging WiFi marketing can set a business apart from its competitors. Customers are more likely to choose a location that provides free WiFi, especially if it enhances their overall experience.

Innovative Marketing Strategies: Implementing WiFi marketing solutions demonstrates that a business is forward-thinking and innovative. Staying ahead of technological trends can attract tech-savvy customers and position the business as a leader in its industry.

Conclusion: Why WiFi Marketing is Crucial for Business Success in 2024

As businesses continue to seek innovative ways to connect with their customers and stay ahead of the competition, WiFi marketing emerges as a powerful tool. By enhancing customer experiences, collecting valuable data, creating targeted marketing campaigns, fostering loyalty, increasing brand awareness, and gaining a competitive edge, WiFi marketing offers numerous benefits that can drive business growth and success in 2024 and beyond.

Implementing WiFi marketing solutions like GoZone WiFi can help businesses unlock the full potential of this technology, providing a seamless and engaging customer experience while delivering actionable insights and marketing opportunities. As we move into 2024, now is the perfect time for businesses to embrace WiFi marketing and reap the rewards of this innovative approach. Get started FREE today!

For more information on how to optimize your business with WiFi marketing, visit GoZone WiFi today. Discover how WiFi marketing can transform your business and set you apart in a competitive market.

While public Wi-FI can be very convenient, both for users and providers, it also introduces a number of security challenges. Unsecured or under-secured public Wi-Fi networks can expose users to cyber threats like identity theft, financial fraud and data breaches. Once they are connected, attackers can monitor all traffic, extract sensitive data, and even inject and spread malware.

DNS queries are fundamental to the functionality of the internet; every time you access a website, you’re sending a DNS query. Some of these can be malicious. In fact, an average internet user might access as many as 5,000 DNS queries a day and up to five of those might be malicious. That’s equivalent to 1,825 incidents per year. A malicious query can be a wide range of activities, from phishing to ransomware to cryptojacking. Often, these queries take the form of redirecting traffic from a legitimate website to a similarly named malicious website.

This brings up a quandary: Today, offering public Wi-Fi is table stakes for places like hotels, airports and even restaurants. For these businesses, providing this service is part of the customer experience. Going to a hotel and discovering they don’t offer free public Wi-Fi is almost shocking. However, it comes with risks. Research from OnePoll found that public Wi-Fi at restaurants and cafes accounted for 25% of all personal data compromise, with airports at 23% and hotels at 20%.

The easy solution is to just not offer this service, but from a business standpoint, that’s not realistic. Ensuring you can provide safe, secure public Wi-Fi can protect your company and your customers. It can even become a competitive differentiator.

How do you do this? It starts with understanding the threats to these networks, with enough context that you can understand the most effective and affordable solution. It’s also key to understand some of the best practices to follow to keep public Wi-Fi use safe for your business and your end-users.

Exploiting public Wi-Fi vulnerabilities

Public Wi-Fi networks have vulnerabilities that leave organizations open to many threats that can result in data breaches, theft of customer data and possible financial losses. To make these networks secure, organizations need to understand their many risks.

These are some of the biggest public Wi-Fi network threats:

  • Malware: Malicious software comes in many varieties; its aim is to sneak onto or damage a network.
  • Ransomware: This kind of malware encrypts an organization’s files and requires a ransom to decrypt that data.
  • Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks: Hackers tap into two parties’ communication and either listen in or change the data they are transmitting.
  • Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs): APTs occur when attackers sneak onto a network and exfiltrate data over time. They get into a device while a user is accessing a public network and then persist their access when the user gets back on the corporate network to expand their undetected access.

Five best practices for Wi-Fi security

There are proactive steps organizations can take to secure their public Wi-Fi. These steps create the foundation for a holistic security strategy to keep the network resistant to data breaches and an array of cyberattacks, and to keep customer data safe.

One step is to implement encryption standards.Use WPA3 for Wi-Fi networks or other robust encryption protocols to make sure that data sent via the network is encrypted. That makes data interception difficult for attackers.

Another step is web content filtering, which is crucial in blocking access to malicious content and sites that might jeopardize the Wi-Fi network’s security. Organizations can substantially lower their risk of breaches introduced via web browsing by filtering out phishing URLs and other known malicious sites and categories of sites that usually disseminate malware.

Installing firewalls is important, too, because they form a barricade between the internet and the public Wi-Fi network. They use predetermined security rules to observe traffic in both directions. If they are configured right, firewalls are good at preventing unauthorized access and some kinds of attacks.

Another step is to disable file sharing. This feature can be highly risky on public networks because it could let attackers directly access sensitive data or install malware. It involves turning off Bluetooth discovery and anything else that’s not essential. This helps make the attack surface as small as possible.

Finally, useVirtual Private Networks.They make encrypted tunnels that enable data to securely and privately pass between the network and the user. Mandating use of VPNs for those using public Wi-Fi will help safeguard data from hackers trying to grab sensitive data.

A secure experience for all

Public and guest Wi-Fi is a key service for today’s businesses (and other institutions) but these services represent massive risk as well. Public Wi-Fi must meet the same cybersecurity standards of any other business system. Many network threats lie in wait, and attacks continue to increase in sophistication and volume. Check the list of Wi-Fi security best practices noted above against your current practices, adjust and upgrade as needed. This will ensure a safe experience for your users and your network.

SAN JOSE, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTGR), the leader in advanced networking technologies for homes, businesses, and service providers around the world, today announced several new additions to its leadership bench. The new board member and executives follow the appointment of CJ Prober as NETGEAR’s CEO earlier this year, and join the robust group of accomplished leaders at NETGEAR.

“These talented executives bring incredible pedigrees, subject matter expertise and track records to our team. Collaborating with the rest of our talented team, they will contribute to delivering exceptional products and services to our customers across the globe,” said CJ Prober, Chief Executive Officer, NETGEAR. “As we look forward, these leaders will be instrumental in supporting the transformation of our businesses and driving long-term value creation for shareholders.”

Laura Orvidas joined the NETGEAR Board of Directors this month. She is the Chief Executive Officer of onXmaps, a leading consumer subscription company that helps inform, inspire, and empower outdoor enthusiasts. Prior to onX, Orvidas spent almost 18 years at Amazon in various positions before assuming the role of Vice President, Consumer Electronics, and Amazon Basics private label. Her consumer electronics and subscription experience will be instrumental to the future business transformation of NETGEAR.

Pramod Badjate brings his extensive experience in leading large networking businesses to his new role of President and GM of NETGEAR for Business. He invested his entire career in enterprise networking at Cisco, Ruckus Networks and, most recently, as the Group Vice President and General Manager for the Cognitive Campus business at Arista Networks. His invaluable experience as an engineering and product leader and proven track record as a general manager will help spur the continued growth of NETGEAR’s AV and IT businesses.

Kirsten Daru joins NETGEAR as the new General Counsel and Chief Privacy Officer with a strong background serving in similar roles with top technology companies. She spent over 11 years at Electronic Arts (EA) where she was appointed its first Chief Privacy Officer. After EA, she served as the General Counsel of Tile and when the company merged with Life360 she was appointed General Counsel of the combined company. She brings a reputation as a strategic leader to NETGEAR, focused on fostering a competitive marketplace where innovation can thrive.

Fiona Spratt steps into a new role at NETGEAR as the Senior Vice President of People, after being with the company for more than 10 years where she moved up the ranks of the HR department in Europe. She also successfully led the project to relocate NETGEAR’s international headquarters in Cork, Ireland, to accommodate a new software development center of excellence. In doing so, she played a critical role in helping the company to accelerate its transformation towards becoming more software-centric by leveraging the pipeline of diverse talent in Ireland. As a global leader, she will be responsible for helping to evolve NETGEAR’s culture for the benefit of current and future employees worldwide.

Antonio López Reus comes to NETGEAR as the new vice president of Strategy and Strategic Partnerships. He joins the company from Amazon, where he led revenue-generating partnerships for the Alexa Smart Home product line. Prior to Amazon, he managed Product Partnerships for Tile, bringing the technology to leading brands including Fitbit, Skullcandy, Google Home, and Alexa. Prior to his roles with Amazon and Tile, he led Asia-Pacific and Emerging Channels for Google Nest and was a Principal for the Boston Consulting Group. His wealth of experience and industry relationships will help NETGEAR discover and validate new opportunities for growth.

More information about the full NETGEAR executive team can be found here and the Board of Directors here.

About NETGEAR, Inc.

NETGEAR® (NASDAQ: NTGR) has pioneered advanced networking technologies for homes, businesses, and service providers around the world since 1996 and leads the industry with a broad range of award-winning products designed to simplify and improve people’s lives. By enabling people to collaborate and connect to a world of information and entertainment, NETGEAR is dedicated to delivering innovative and advanced connected solutions ranging from mobile and cloud-based services for enhanced control and security, to smart networking products, video over Ethernet for Pro AV applications, easy-to-use WiFi solutions and performance gaming routers to enhance online game play. The company is headquartered out of San Jose, Calif. with offices located around the globe. More information is available from the NETGEAR Press Room or by calling (408) 907-8000. Connect with NETGEAR: Facebook, Instagram and the NETGEAR blog at NETGEAR.com.

Revolutionizing Remote Connectivity with WestEnd WiFi and GoZone WiFi

Delivering reliable Wi-Fi to remote locations like campgrounds, marinas, and farms has long been a challenge due to the limited availability and high cost of backhaul. However, WestEnd WiFi is now offering a groundbreaking solution by leveraging Starlink satellite broadband for backhaul and GoZone WiFi for comprehensive service management, including captive portals, analytics, and payment schemes.

Comprehensive Wi-Fi Solutions for Remote Areas

WestEnd WiFi’s preconfigured package includes everything needed to set up a complete public or private Wi-Fi network. This package comprises a Starlink terminal, Ruckus (CommScope) access points, the GoZone WiFi platform, and peripheral equipment like a VPN for remote management. If necessary, additional equipment such as 60 GHz radios or Wi-Fi mesh can be included to further distribute the backhaul to more access points.

“This will make a huge difference for all places that are far from fixed network grids – and there are a large number of those right across the U.K. Starlink offers the ubiquitous backhaul that is otherwise difficult to procure, while GoZone WiFi delivers all the flexibility we need for creating Wi-Fi services, payment schemes, analytics, and more,” says Tim Belfall, Director at WestEnd WiFi.

Starlink’s Role in Remote Connectivity

In the UK, Starlink residential service provides up to 200 Mbps downlink and 20 Mbps uplink for £89 (about US$109) a month, with an initial hardware cost of £529 (about US$648). While these services are configured to work at a single location, they can be moved for an additional fee payable to Starlink. Full Wi-Fi services require suitable Wi-Fi APs and other equipment. For the complete equipment list, fill out the form below to download the case story document.

“The speeds may not sound like a lot, but they are very useful for many use cases. Add to this that it is possible to double or triple the data rates by aggregating several Starlink terminals using suitable channel bonding equipment,” Tim Belfall says. WestEnd WiFi has conducted extensive tests to verify performance and required equipment configurations. These test configurations and results are available in the case story paper.

GoZone WiFi’s Service Management Capabilities

GoZone WiFi CEO & founder Todd Myers emphasizes that the availability of backhaul, such as Starlink, opens up markets underserved with Wi-Fi. All public or private enterprise networks will benefit from GoZone WiFi’s service management, analytics, and marketing capabilities. “We’re excited to be part of the ecosystem delivering Wi-Fi to outlying areas together with WestEnd WiFi and offering the tools to make such networks profitable and sustainable. Wi-Fi should be for everyone, including tourists, businesses, and industry in remote locations,” says Todd Myers.

Benefits of Advanced Captive Portals in Outdoor Parks

Implementing advanced captive portals in outdoor parks can significantly enhance the overall visitor experience and provide numerous benefits:

  1. Enhanced User Experience: Captive portals offer an easy and intuitive way for visitors to access Wi-Fi services. A seamless login process ensures a positive user experience from the moment they connect.
  2. Visitor Data Collection: Advanced captive portals enable the collection of valuable visitor data, such as contact information and user demographics. This data helps park management understand visitor behavior, preferences, and trends, allowing for tailored services and marketing efforts.
  3. Targeted Marketing and Promotions: Leveraging data collected through captive portals, parks can deliver targeted marketing messages and promotions directly to visitors. Information about upcoming events, special offers, or nearby attractions can enhance the visitor experience.
  4. Monetization Opportunities: Captive portals can introduce monetization strategies like sponsored content, advertisements, or premium Wi-Fi plans. This creates additional revenue streams for parks while providing value to sponsors and advertisers.
  5. Enhanced Security: Captive portals can include security features such as user authentication and access controls, ensuring that only authorized users access the Wi-Fi network. This helps protect both the network and its users from potential security threats.
  6. Community Engagement: Parks can use captive portals to promote community engagement by sharing information about local events, volunteer opportunities, and park initiatives. This fosters a sense of community and encourages visitors to participate in and support park activities.
  7. Feedback and Surveys: Captive portals can gather feedback from visitors through surveys and questionnaires. This feedback is invaluable for park management to identify areas for improvement and enhance the visitor experience.

Conclusion

By incorporating advanced captive portals into their Wi-Fi service offerings, outdoor parks can create a more connected, engaging, and enjoyable environment for their visitors. GoZone WiFi’s platform, with its robust captive portal capabilities, provides the perfect solution for parks looking to enhance their Wi-Fi services and leverage the full potential of connectivity.

Bangkok, Thailand – July 25, 2024 – Wi-Fi Alliance® and Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University successfully showcased next generation Wi-Fi® technologies that will transform the future of healthcare. This live demonstration presented sophisticated Wi-Fi virtual and augmented reality (AR/VR) use cases that require fast speeds, high throughput, and low latency, underscoring 6 GHz Wi-Fi’s ability to support high-quality digital infrastructure to enhance medical education and service delivery.

The demonstration – 6 GHz Wi-Fi in healthcare: the future of AR/VR use cases for medical applications – highlighted two use cases using only the three 160 MHz channels available in the lower 500 MHz (lower 6 GHz band) versus the seven channels available in the full 1200 MHz of the 6 GHz band (full 6 GHz band). The demo underscores the criticality of the full 6 GHz band for maintaining an optimal user experience under high network loads.

The demonstration highlighted the following key use cases:

  • Efficient use of AR/VR technologies for medical training: AR/VR technologies like immersive virtual anatomy visualization allows for in-depth analysis of the human anatomy, providing doctors and medical students with an immersive 3D view of the human body including skeletal, muscular, neural, and soft tissue structures.
  • Dense deployment streaming and file transfer: Next generation Wi-Fi supports the ability for every person in a 500-seat classroom to independently stream HD video, transfer files, or utilize 5 GHz and 6 GHz multi-layer network segmentation and deployment.

Through mutual cooperation between Ramathibodi Hospital and Wi-Fi Alliance – along with Wi-Fi Alliance member partners Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Intel, and Meta – this initial demonstration phase of a multi-month long trial embraces 6 GHz Wi-Fi to enhance teaching and learning capabilities to doctors and medical students in the hospital.

Additional support is being provided by The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), highlighting the socioeconomic impact of using full-spectrum 6 GHz Wi-Fi.

“Wi-Fi Alliance is proud to play a role in showcasing the tremendous opportunity of 6 GHz Wi-Fi to reshape healthcare,” said Kevin Robinson, President and CEO, Wi-Fi Alliance. “Today’s Wi-Fi offers a new level of performance and reliability, and these demonstrations are only a sampling of Wi-Fi’s potential impact on patient care and medical and operational efficiencies within healthcare environments.” 

“By harnessing the power of 6 GHz Wi-Fi, we are making our facility more efficient and connected,” said Dr. Sithakom Phusanti, Assistant Dean for Policy and Planning Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital. “This demonstration is the next step toward enhancing our capabilities as a teaching hospital, and next generation Wi-Fi technologies will foster a new phase of learning and development.”

In addition to supporting critical use cases, 6 GHz Wi-Fi infrastructure provides a scalable, reliable network to ensure healthcare facilities are prepared for future advancements. The Ramathibodi Hospital deployment aims to serve as a model for nationwide adoption of next-generation Wi-Fi connectivity, highlighting the various ways that Wi-Fi will revolutionize and reshape the future healthcare. The project can be replicated around the world.

 

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.

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About Ramathibodi Hospital

The Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital has a long-standing tradition of providing top-notch medical care. With a dedicated team of highly skilled healthcare professionals, the hospital offers a wide range of specialized services, from general practices to complex medical procedures. The institution’s unwavering commitment to patient-centered care ensures that each individual receives the highest standard of treatment in a compassionate and supportive environment. As a hub of medical research and innovation, the institute’s state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborative environment foster groundbreaking studies in various fields, including genomics, regenerative medicine, and public health.

In addition, the institution is also renowned for its comprehensive and forward-thinking educational programs by offering a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate courses designed to train the next generation of healthcare professionals. By integrating advanced technologies with AR/VR into the clinical anatomy curriculum, the hospital ensures that students receive hands-on, practical experience in a controlled and immersive setting.

MONTRÉAL, July 24, 2024 /CNW/ – Bell today announced the launch of its new Bell Business Wi-Fi App, designed to empower small businesses in Ontario and Québec with an enhanced Wi-Fi experience that combines improved security, customizable guest Wi-Fi, employee and customer data insights, and simplified network management.

Available now for small business owners in Ontario and Québec, the Bell Business Wi-Fi App is powered by Bell’s award-winning network. For the second year in a row, Bell’s pure fibre Internet has been named fastest in Canada in Ookla’s Q1-Q2 Speedtest Awards report2, the biannual analysis of wireline and wireless performance across the country. The report also ranks Bell pure fibre as fastest Wi-Fi in Canada3. With these new recognitions, Bell remains Canada’s most awarded Internet service provider.

The Bell Business Wi-Fi App with Bell pure fibre Internet provides tools and insights to help small businesses stay securely connected and manage their operations effectively, in addition to Wi-Fi access for employees and guests. A cloud-based platform designed in partnership with Plume, the app delivers an innovative next-level experience. Bell small business customers can expect:

  • Enhanced Security: Creates three distinct Wi-Fi zones with increased protection to keep business, employee, and customer Internet usage separate.
  • Seamless Guest Wi-Fi: Offers a customizable guest Wi-Fi experience with a dedicated login portal.
  • Employee Insights: Creates employee profiles and tracks productivity insights, enabling managers to understand usage patterns and optimize workplace efficiency.
  • Simplified Management: Controls user access through one-time or recurring schedules, all through the intuitive mobile or web-based app.
  • Self-Installation: Easily install Bell Business Wi-Fi pods and monitor the health of the network and connected devices.

For more details about the Bell Business Wi-Fi App, including pricing and eligibility, please visit Bell.ca/sbwifi.

As the demand for pervasive Wi-Fi on higher education campuses continues to grow, so does the pressure on IT teams. To reduce this burden, RUCKUS offers a suite of higher education tailored products and solutions. Read this blog to learn more about what RUCKUS has to offer your campus.

RUCKUS Networks Are in a Class of Their Own

For colleges and universities, the need for reliable, high-speed connectivity across every corner of campus has never been more critical. From dormitories to auditoriums and everywhere in between, students, staff, and faculty expect seamless connectivity.

To alleviate the IT burden of meeting these demands, RUCKUS offers a suite of products specifically designed to address the unique needs of each campus area. In this blog, we will explore how RUCKUS empowers the digital experience across various campus environments.

Student Residences 

Student residences are more than just a place for students to sleep—it is their home. Because of this, they expect seamless and safe connection for studying, streaming, and staying connected with peers and family. RUCKUS has products and solutions that can be tailored to each student’s unique needs.

Our access points (APs) deliver high-speed and high-density connectivity. Built with BeamFlex® and ChannelFly® technologies, these APs are designed to adjust Wi-Fi® signals to optimize performance, minimize interference, and assess network performance to choose the best available channel. This means students can seamlessly stream, study, and socialize uninterrupted, even in crowded residence halls. In addition to our APs, network administrators can utilize RUCKUS One and RUCKUS AI to manage student residence networks and proactively monitor potential issues to prevent network downtime.

Another game-changer for dormitories is the RUCKUS® Dynamic PSK (pre-shared keys) technology. Unlike traditional pre-shared keys that are shared among multiple users, ours give each user a unique encryption key, meaning each student gets their own secure connection and reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Our Dynamic PSK technology supports Wi-Fi on 6 GHz and WPA3 and can be used on any device, such as speakers and gaming systems.

Lecture halls and classrooms

Lecture halls and classrooms are the heart of a college campus, so it is crucial that students have fast and uninterrupted connectivity for their learning. In addition to dorms, lecture halls are also the perfect environment for our APs, such as our Wi-Fi 7 indoor AP, the R770. Their BeamFlex technology adjusts Wi-Fi signals to focus directly on the users, while ChannelFly software optimizes channel selection to reduce congestion and enhance overall network performance. With RUCKUS APs, students’ learning is uninterrupted, and teachers can teach more effectively.

Even when the classroom isn’t being used, RUCKUS products can still improve campus efficiency. Our IoT Suite can create a responsive environment where heating and lighting are automatically adjusted based on real-time data. For example, when occupancy sensors detect that a lecture hall is empty, the systems will power down, which in turn reduces energy consumption and operational costs. Not only does this build a more sustainable campus, but it also saves money for your campus.

Safety across campus

Security technologies aren’t a new or groundbreaking concept when it comes to college technologies, but the RUCKUS difference is that these technologies can operate synergistically instead of in isolation. At the core of this are our APs, which provide connectivity for safety features, surveillance cameras, and user devices. The high bandwidth and low latency of a RUCKUS network helps these devices operate uninterrupted and makes security personnel able to respond quickly to any emergencies.

With the RUCKUS IoT Suite, devices such as smart locks, emergency call buttons, and environmental sensors can all be connected to the same network. Our IoT Suite enables these devices to communicate seamlessly and efficiently to enhance the safety of your campus.

An example of how this can all work interconnectedly is how our technologies react to someone trying to break into a residence hall at night. First, motion detectors identify movement at a time and place no one should be, and then our Wi-Fi-connected locks recognize that someone is trying to open doors without proper authorization. Because of this, the connected lights turn on, and smart surveillance can capture video of the person attempting to gain entry. If the person is a student or employee who has a device on them that is connected to Wi-Fi, the system will be able to detect who the owner of the device is. An alert will then be sent to campus security with real-time data and video so they can respond appropriately.

See it for yourself

We know that RUCKUS is the best choice for your campus, but don’t just take our word for it. With our higher education case studies, you can learn about how we have helped campuses across the world. Another great resource is our higher education brochure, which goes into more detail about our offerings for higher education.

When it comes to higher education, RUCKUS Networks is in a class of its own.