Breaking News

In the initial 15 days after the launch across 250,000 homes, ACT SmartWi-Fi® users enjoyed an average speed improvement of 3X on all devices.
Over 80% of Smart TVs, 70% of laptops, and 60% of mobile devices were successfully steered to optimal Wi-Fi channels, ensuring a more reliable and high-performing experience.
ACT SmartWi-Fi® has also significantly improved speed and throughput on specific devices—it is nearly two times faster on Smart TVs, two times faster on laptops, and four times faster on smartphones.
These results demonstrate that ACT SmartWi-Fi®, powered by Aprecomm’s advanced AI, is already transforming subscribers’ in-home Wi-Fi experiences.

BENGALURU, India: Monday, March 3, 2025: ACT Fibernet, one of India’s leading internet service providers, is excited to share early results of its ACT SmartWi-Fi® launch, powered by its proprietary router OS, ACT Zippy. Developed in partnership with Aprecomm, this cutting-edge AI technology has demonstrated its ability to deliver a superior Wi-Fi experience, resulting in significantly higher Wi-Fi performance across all device types and fulfilling the company’s promise to transform in-home connectivity for its customers.

During the initial launch stages across 250,000 homes over 15 days, ACT SmartWi-Fi® users experienced an average of three times higher speeds delivered to all devices than in homes without the new smart Wi-Fi service. Specific devices showcased even more impressive gains—Smart TVs saw speeds improve by two times, laptops by three times, and smartphones by four times. Additionally, thanks to AI-powered intelligent optimization, over 80% of Smart TVs, over 70% of laptops, and over 60% of mobile devices were successfully steered to optimal Wi-Fi channels, ensuring a more reliable and higher-performing internet experience and resolving issues such as interference and congestion before they could impact the end user.

“We are thrilled to see the transformative impact of ACT SmartWi-Fi® on our customers’ digital lives,” said Ravi Karthik, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of ACT Fibernet. “Our initial launch data validates our commitment to delivering on our promise—ensuring a significantly superior online experience for our customers. Whether streaming on a Smart TV, working on a laptop, or browsing on a mobile device, ACT is redefining what high-performing internet looks like in Indian homes.”

ACT Fibernet’s partner, Aprecomm, also expressed excitement about the results: “The partnership has enabled us to push the boundaries of what’s possible with in-home Wi-Fi,” said Pramod Gummaraj, Founder & CEO of Aprecomm. “Our agentic AI solution, which currently enables ACT SmartWi-Fi®, works to optimize for every device and application to enable a superior Wi-Fi experience. This delivers, among other benefits, improved speed, reduced latency, and enhanced reliability. We’re proud to be part of this journey to enhance connectivity for millions of users.”

ACT SmartWi-Fi®, powered by Aprecomm’s agentic AI solution, proactively scans and monitors in-home Wi-Fi, identifying potential issues, such as congestion and interference, and optimizes the experience in real-time through features like channel switching and band steering. This proprietary algorithm captures more than 15 parameters in real-time, calculating a Wi-Fi quality of experience score for each device and continuously optimizes to ensure enhanced experience across all devices, applications, and corners of the home, 24/7. ACT Fibernet continues to lead the way in revolutionizing internet services in India, with ACT SmartWi-Fi® setting a new benchmark for in-home Wi-Fi performance. The company remains committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower its customers with seamless, high-speed connectivity for all their digital needs.

About ACT Fibernet

ACT Fibernet is one of India’s largest wired ISPs, headquartered in Bengaluru, with operations in 30+ cities and serving 2.3 million customers. Known for its reliable and high-speed internet connections, ACT Fibernet caters to a diverse range of customer needs. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, ACT Fibernet provides excellent customer support and a seamless user experience. The company offers a wide range of plans to suit various budgets and usage requirements. For more information, please visit www.actcorp.in.

Press contact

Genishka Chouhan
genishka@value360india.com
+91 7742855997

About Aprecomm

Aprecomm harnesses the power of AI to provide a unique applications suite that enables service providers to create self-optimizing and self-healing broadband networks.

Our quality-of-experience engine monitors and optimizes Wi-Fi performance to ensure consumers enjoy the best possible internet experience. At the same time, our cloud-based support applications leverage real-time data to predict and resolve customer service issues before they happen, saving providers time and money.

Aprecomm manages over 7 million home and business locations, partnering with more than 45 service providers worldwide.

Together, we are making intuitive networks a reality.

Follow Aprecomm on LinkedIn here.

#IntuitiveNetworks #BringingJoyToOnline

Visit www.aprecomm.ai to discover more.

Press contact

corporatecomms@aprecomm.ai

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March 5, 2025

[Press Release]

Zyxel Networks appoints Ken Tsai as new President

ANAHEIM, CA, UNITED STATES, (February 24, 2025) Zyxel Networks, a leader in delivering secure and AI-powered cloud networking solutions, has announced the appointment of Ken Tsai as the new President of Zyxel Networks, effective February 2025.

Since its spin-off from Zyxel Communications in 2019, Zyxel Networks has focused on the small to medium-sized business (SMB) networking market, successfully building a strong market position through its Nebula cloud management platform alongside network security solutions. Ken Tsai’s leadership is expected to bring forward-thinking strategies and market insights that will fuel the company’s growth momentum in global markets.

“Zyxel Networks has been committed to delivering exceptional networking solutions for SMBs since day one,” said Tsai. “With the Nebula cloud management platform and security solutions, we have successfully distinguished ourselves with strong in-house R&D power in the international markets and established a robust business model. Building on this success, we are confident in our path forward. I feel a great sense of responsibility and will dedicate myself fully to leading Zyxel Networks in continued growth and innovation.”

Tsai brings 19 years of experience from the Zyxel Group, having held key positions across various strategic operations and product management units, including the Gateway Strategic Business Unit, Management Center, Corporate HR Service Division, and Business Supporting Center.

His extensive expertise in brand management, market development, and customer experience—gained through roles at global HQ and several years expatriating in European markets—positions him as a proven leader capable of guiding cross-departmental and cross-cultural teams towards achieving business goals. This experience will lay a solid foundation for Zyxel Networks’ future development.

The widespread challenges currently facing SMBs worldwide include regulatory pressures, limited resources, and recruitment difficulties, calling for more efficient operational practices and resource allocation. The increasing security attacks also underscores the urgent need for secure and reliable solutions.

Zyxel Networks’ Nebula cloud management solution is specifically designed to address these pain points by integrating wired, wireless, and security devices through a single platform that leverages cloud management and AI for analytical monitoring. This approach simplifies management processes while reducing risks associated with cyber threats, alleviating burdens on SMBs.

Zyxel Networks emphasizes that Tsai’s wealth of cross-functional collaboration experience and team trust will facilitate deeper integration within the company, enhancing its ability to seize opportunities in a rapidly evolving market. This will enable the company to keep delivering innovative solutions that meet customer demands, while supporting SMBs in overcoming challenges and driving business growth.

About Zyxel: Zyxel Networks is a leading provider of secure, AI-powered cloud networking solutions for SMBs and the enterprise-edge. We deliver seamless connectivity and flexible scalability through subscription services, all backed by robust security. With a reputation built on decades of unlocking potential and helping people adapt to the changing workplace, Zyxel Networks has earned the trust of over 1 million businesses across 150 markets.

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

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March 5, 2025

[Blog]

Scalable, Pre-Certified Test Strategy Is Key to Enhanced Wi-Fi 7 Performance

As we closed out 2024 in preparation for what’s shaping up to be a busy 2025, LitePoint joined a group of wireless technology experts for RCR Wireless News’ annual “State of Wi-Fi” webinar. Hosted by managing editor, Catherine Sbeglia Nin, and featuring industry colleagues from Cisco, Spirent and the Wi-Fi Alliance, the webinar explored technical considerations influencing Wi-Fi 7 adoption, including wireless test from R&D to commercial deployment.

The Wi-Fi 7 certification program was introduced in January 2024 by the Wi-Fi Alliance, indicating the technology was ready for mass market adoption. Wi-Fi 7 was expected to account for about six percent of the more than four billion Wi-Fi devices projected to ship worldwide last year, but by 2028, forecasts indicate it could represent nearly half of the market.

In large part, adoption rates will surge because Wi-Fi 7 has a number of features that distinguish it from Wi-Fi 6/6E. These include the doubling of channel bandwidth from 160MHz to 320MHz, higher speed thanks to support for 4K (4096) QAM modulation, and perhaps most importantly, the introduction of multi-link operation (MLO).

Unlike Wi-Fi 6/6E, which can only access a single frequency band at a time, MLO allows for simultaneous use and aggregation of different bands. This means that regions with access to the 6GHz band can use different channels within the same band or aggregate any combination of 2.4, 5 and 6GHz. Regions that do not use the 6GHz band will still benefit, because they can aggregate different channels within the 2.4 and 5GHz frequency bands to achieve higher throughput or reliability. That flexibility paves the way for Wi-Fi 7 to support immersive digital functions such as augmented and virtual reality, in addition to higher-resolution video streaming and the expanded network capacity required by IoT devices.

Accelerate Wi-Fi 7 Deployment Through Pre-Certification

Our customers use LitePoint’s scalable test solutions across the entire Wi-Fi development ecosystem, from reference designs, characterization and validation to volume manufacturing.

As we move from the Wi-Fi 7 R&D tooling cycle into commercial ramp-up, customers should be incorporating access-point pre-certification into their test strategies. Pre-certification testing ensures compliance with regulatory standards and interoperability requirements for smooth integration into the ecosystem to enhance spectrum utilization, power transmission flexibility and expanded range.

Pre-certification also protects incumbents in the 6GHz band by ensuring brands and their OEM and ODM partners adhere to FCC and other regulatory standards. This is especially important in the 6GHz band, which is host to many point-to-point microwave links used for essential infrastructure needs by firefighters, emergency medical responders, gas and water utilities and other public safety and law enforcement officials, as well as live news feeds that use broadband and satellite links.

FCC and Wi-Fi Alliance Create Access Point Test Beds

The FCC formulated transmit-power rules as a management tool by classifying Wi-Fi 7 access points according to low power, very low power and standard-power outdoor devices. This guideline for access points operating in the 6GHz spectrum includes automated frequency coordination (AFC) to avoid signal transmission on channels, or at power levels, that could interfere with incumbent services.

From an RF or physical layer perspective, this may sound simple. However, given the implications at the application level, the ability of a Wi-Fi access point to transmit at maximum power is significant. This is so, because power levels affect how efficiently the spectrum in use can extend transmission range and improve signal-to-noise ratio performance – both of which are critical for enabling dense modulation schemes and supporting advanced use cases.

To track compliance, the FCC and government bodies, in addition to the Wi Fi Alliance, have developed their own Wi-Fi 7 pre-certification test beds, which help devices align with FCC rules for Maximum Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) based on the bandwidth in use. LitePoint supports this effort through our IQsniffer software test tool. The IQsniffer, which is pre-integrated into the Wi-Fi Alliance AFC test harness, precisely detects the signal from the standard outdoor power access point and measures power spectral density to ensure the Wi-Fi device is operating within power emission limits.

Managing Wi-Fi 7 Production Economics

As with every advancement, device bill of materials (BOM) costs tend to rise until the technology achieves an economy of scale. With Wi-Fi 7 still in its early adoption stage, per-unit device costs are higher and compounded by other expenses, ranging from R&D costs to marketing spend. One way to manage BOM costs is to use existing capital equipment, an installed hardware base that is scalable to support parallel testing of multiple devices and a user-friendly software test tool like IQfact+ that simplifies test automation.

Manufacturers are always eager to optimize equipment throughput and production efficiency, and we’ve found that a multi-device test environment has helped customers manage cost, complexity, quality – and yields – across previous Wi-Fi generations throughout pilot runs and into volume manufacturing.

With consumers looking for Wi-Fi 7 to provide a gateway to a better user experience, brands and manufacturers are under tremendous pressure to meet expectations. A comprehensive test strategy and simplified, automated tools chart a direct path to maximize tester resources, increase production efficiency, reduce test costs and accelerate time-to-market.

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March 5, 2025

[Blog]

Silicon Labs Launches the PG26 MCU for Low-Power, High-Performance IoT Applications

Silicon Labs, a leader in IoT connectivity, has consistently set new benchmarks in MCU performance, capabilities, and applications. Today, we’re announcing the general availability of the PG26 – a general-purpose microcontroller with a large combination of flash and RAM that features a dedicated matrix vector processor to enhance AI/ML hardware accelerator speeds. This addition to our portfolio is equipped to address a wide array of challenging applications, making it an essential tool for AI/ML-driven applications.

A 32-bit Microcontroller Specifically Designed for Energy-Efficient Embedded Development

The PG26 offers an impressive 3200 kB of flash and 512 kB of RAM, both of which lead Silicon Labs’ Series 2 platform. This combination allows for more complex AI/ML models, larger customer applications, and bigger ML models for more accuracy. It also offers a rich peripheral set with a substantial number of GPIOs which enables better system integration. Its 64 GPIOs and four additional analog-only pins reduce the need for external components, which is also facilitated by an integrated LCD driver that can support up to 288 segments. The high performance, multicore compute platform (80MHz Cortex-M33 Core) is also equipped with Secure Vault™ High to improve efficiency and security. Like other Series 2 MCUs, the PG26 is firmware-compatible across the portfolio, making it easier for developers to work across multiple devices. The PG26 maintains the low-power performance Silicon Labs developers are used to, making it an ideal main microcontroller for sensors and home automation devices.

The PG26 MCU Brings Advanced AI/ML Functionality, More Memory, and Additional GPIO

The PG26 provides developers with a wide variety of options to meet diverse application needs. Its low power consumption and small form factor are ideal for energy-sensitive applications. Its precision analog capabilities and integrated LCD are ideal for applications requiring accurate measurements and display functionalities while maintaining low-power performance. The PG26, with its enhanced AI/ML capabilities, more memory, and additional GPIO, is designed for advanced applications that require high processing power and flexibility. Lastly, the latest PG26 offers the most memory, a comprehensive peripheral set, and extensive GPIO options, making it well-suited for complex and memory-intensive applications like industrial automation, predictive maintenance, and monitoring.

The PG26 Microcontroller Makes it Easy to Transition to Embedded IoT Designs

The xG26 platform (BG26, PG26 and the most recently announced MG26) supports a dual strategy, allowing developers to choose between connected and non-connected configurations based on their specific needs. This flexibility ensures that the xG26 can be used in a wide range of applications, from standalone devices to complex IoT systems. One of the key advantages of the xG26 platform is its firmware compatibility and common toolchain across the entire Series 2 portfolio. This ensures that developers can migrate their applications quickly and easily to take advantage of the latest features and improvements without extensive rework. The xG26 platform also offers footprint compatibility, making it easier for developers to upgrade their designs and integrate new features without significant changes to the hardware layout.

Silicon Labs has a rich history of developing cutting-edge microcontrollers, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation and reliability. The PG26 builds on decades of expertise and technological advancements, bringing Silicon Labs’ track record of integrating advanced connectivity features to enable seamless communication with various devices and networks. This combination of robust performance, advanced security, and wireless capabilities makes the xG26 a standout choice for modern applications.

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March 5, 2025

[Blog]

Cisco Wins “Industrial IoT Company of the Year 2025” Award from IoT Breakthrough Organization

I’m pleased to report that Cisco was named Industrial IoT Company of the Year 2025 in the IoT Breakthrough Awards Program. Since 2017, IoT Breakthrough has made annual awards to industrial IoT companies and products based on quality, unique technology, and market leadership. I would like to thank our customers, partners, and the entire Cisco industrial IoT team for making this award possible.

“Most people know Cisco for their enterprise networking products, but for over 20 years, Cisco has been instrumental in making enterprise technologies decisive for digitizing industrial operations.”

– Steve Johansson, Managing Director at IoT Breakthrough

In this blog I’ll summarize the reasons why the evaluation committee awarded Cisco top honors as Industrial IoT Company of the Year. Our solutions enable our customers to protect their operations and lay a robust foundation for AI, all with seamless IT-OT collaboration and validated designs built in partnerships with leading industrial automation companies.

“The same robust security as the enterprise”

In the award announcement, IoT Breakthrough emphasizes Cisco innovations in industrial cybersecurity and AI readiness, which it terms paramount concerns for industrial operations. The announcement says, “Designed specifically for industrial needs, Cisco’s switches, routers, and wireless equipment share a common foundation with their enterprise counterparts… A shared operating system, management platform, and security measures facilitate collaboration between IT and OT teams.” As shown in the figure, Cisco industrial networking solutions come with built-in visibility, segmentation, zero-trust remote access, and the threat intelligence needed for effective incident response. A case study: Brazil’s CPFL Energia uses Cisco solutions to automatically detect and profile OT assets in substations and identify vulnerabilities and anomalies.

Figure 1: Visibility, segmentation, and secure remote access are built into Cisco network fabric

Johansson from IoT Breakthrough says, “By enabling IT best practices in OT, Cisco has freed industrial networks to scale and be flexible, while enjoying the same robust security as the enterprise.”

“The power of AI/ML”

I meet regularly with leading industrial companies, many of them already using AI to modernize operations—for instance, for predictive maintenance, manufacturing anomaly detection, robotics and autonomous vehicles, supply chain optimization, and more. For example, Audi uses Cisco solutions for virtual reality prototypes and predictive maintenance. Argos Cement uses AI to analyze historical data and build digital twins and predictive models to maintain quality, reduce energy consumption, and increase throughput.

AI applications like these place high demands on the network. Think of the network as the nervous system connecting the brains in the data center to the industrial IoT assets in plants and in the field. In the award announcement, IoT Breakthrough states, “Cisco’s industrial solutions empower industries to leverage the power of AI/ML to drive innovation to meet current and future needs. The network’s high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity between OT and IT domains transports large volumes of data generated by sensors, machines, controllers, and other devices to analytical applications in datacenters and the cloud.”

“Validated design guides that are blueprints”

Besides our technology, IoT Breakthrough also calls out Cisco for “publishing validated design guides that are blueprints for successful networking and security deployments… that achieve business objectives.” We provide more than 80 Cisco Validated Designs and architectures for industries including manufacturing, power and water utilities, oil and gas, mining, ports and terminals, roadways and intersections, and public transportation. My colleague Keith Higgins, Director of Product Marketing at Cisco, adds that “Validated designs improve IT/OT collaboration, which helps to reduce risk, increase operational efficiency, and accelerate implementation.”

Industrial companies also benefit from our partnerships and joint designs with Rockwell Automation®, Schneider Electric®, and CODESYS. Integration with Splunk gives OT teams the observability that’s needed for digital resilience.

Get started

Wherever your company is on the journey to network modernization, we can help you take the next step. I invite you to schedule a personalized consultation.

Sign up for the Cisco Industrial IoT Newsletter

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February 27, 2025

[Press Release]

Airties Unveils “Airties Pro”: New Connectivity Experience Platform for ISPs to Serve Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) and Channel Partners

Enables ISPs to better serve and monetize the SMB market with a “white label” connectivity experience platform purpose-built for their unique needs
Powered by Airties Cloud which provides secure multi-layer access for SMBs, ISPs, and channel partners to remotely manage network performance and insights across devices and apps as well as a suite of tools allowing SMBs to offer secure connectivity for employees, guests and protected devices
Allows SMBs to easily create their own branded portal to manage Wi-Fi log-in for guests and employees, create free or paid access tiers, and choose from flexible hardware options

Paris, France – February 27, 2025 – Airties, a global leader of AI-driven software that improves the connectivity experience for ISPs’ subscribers, today unveiled Airties Pro, a new connectivity experience platform that was purpose-built to help ISPs better serve and monetize the small and medium business (SMB) market segment.

Broadband service providers have long relied upon Airties’ software for the ongoing optimization of their customers’ home broadband experience to help reduce churn, attract new customers, lower operating costs, and innovate in new ways. However, Airties recognized a gap for SMBs whose needs were more complex than home broadband, but less complicated than full-scale enterprise systems. Airties Pro is a fit-for-purpose solution designed to address this gap and help ISPs deliver a premium broadband experience to serve their high-value SMB customers and prospects.

Airties Pro continually optimizes SMBs’ local network performance based on real-time conditions and provides key insights on connected devices and usage. Notably, it provides secure multi-layer access to Airties Cloud, which enables ISPs and their IT partners to remotely manage and optimize local network performance. SMBs can easily set up secure connectivity for employees and protect their critical data. Airties Pro also allows SMBs to easily create their own branded portal to manage Wi-Fi log-in for guests and create free or paid access tiers. It also includes an easy-to-use SMB mobile app for remote network configuration and management and gives ISPs a choice of hardware options for gateways and Mesh extenders–all designed to meet the unique needs of each business.

“SMBs make up the vast majority of companies across the globe, and they need consistent, quality broadband connectivity for their employees and guests,” said Metin Taskin, founder and CEO of Airties. “Airties Pro was created to help ISPs enhance their core business, attract new customers, and improve customer satisfaction through a premium broadband experience that was purpose-built for SMBs. The combination of our AI-driven software, easy-to-use management tools with secure multi-layer access, flexible hardware options, and unrivaled expertise make Airties Pro the ideal solution for ISPs to create and manage differentiated SMB offers.”

“While there are many broadband management solutions for the enterprise and home markets, that really has not been the case for SMBs,” said Jeff Heynen, Vice President, Broadband Access and Home Networking at Dell’Oro Group. “SMBs have unique needs that ISPs could better serve, provided they have the right tools. ISPs and SMBs need multi-tenancy control and capabilities to manage their broadband networks. Given the economic pressure facing their home broadband businesses, ISPs would be well-served to look towards opportunities in the lucrative SMB market with custom solutions that can demand a premium.”

Airties’ AI-driven connectivity experience platform helps ISPs observe, diagnose and fix connectivity issues automatically or through actionable recommendations. By personalizing the customer experience and optimizing connectivity, it is designed to help improve customer satisfaction and NPS scores. Airties’ data-driven insights, across devices and applications, help ISPs improve performance quality, market effectively, and deliver a premium managed broadband experience to customers. Airties developed its first SMB solution to serve Cox in the U.S., and it will make Airties Pro commercially available to other ISPs in Q2 2025.

Airties Pro provides a seamless, all-in-one SMB solution with premium support that is tailored to help ISPs increase ARPU, lower cost-to-serve, improve customer satisfaction and reduce churn. Key features include:

Premium Quality of Experience (QoE) Management: Airties Pro relies upon Airties Edge software on gateways/routers/extenders to intelligently direct connected devices (laptops, tablets, phones, POS terminals, IoT, etc.) to the best available Wi-Fi access point and frequency band based on real-time network conditions; manage Mesh networking; optimize QoS; and deliver critical data to Airties Cloud. Airties Cloud helps SMBs and ISPs remotely observe, diagnose, and fix connectivity issues automatically or through actionable recommendations; delivers insights on usage trends, connected devices and application performance; and provides APIs to support operators’ CRM systems and apps. In addition to views of individual businesses, Airties Pro enables ISPs to see population-level views across their SMB customers and channel partners to compare data, usage statics and trends to help them refine their service offerings.
Customization and Monetization: Airties Pro includes easy-to-use software for SMBs to design and launch guest Wi-Fi landing pages and configure monetization options. SMBs can set different access parameters for employees, set up free or paid access tiers for guests, and offer other promotions. In addition to web-based management controls, Airties Pro includes a customer-facing mobile app that allows SMBs to set up and manage core aspects of their networks. SMBs can also see helpful insights such as the devices on their network, whether they have new or returning guests on the network, which hours of the days are the busiest, benchmarked usage data compared to similar SMBs, and more.
Multi-Layer Access Customer Management: Flexible multi-layer access allows ISPs, SMBs and their IT partners to all manage the SMB network based on their specific needs and capabilities. For example, it supports both self-service or outsourced network management that enables channel partners to install, manage and support local network connectivity.
Network Security and Value-Added Services: Airties Pro provides network separation and security across business layers, including employee access, guest access, and POS transactions. It also provides cybersecurity features to protect the local network and connected devices from threats, and it includes content filtering at different levels for PCI compliance of POS transactions.
Flexible and Easy-to-Install Hardware Choices: Airties Pro is compatible with a wide range of enterprise grade CPE hardware, including the ability to upgrade existing residential hardware with Airties Pro software features. Airties’ software is hardware agnostic and relies on standards-based and open-source technology to avoid proprietary solutions and vendor lock-in. Airties Pro also enables easy “zero-touch” installation of Wi-Fi access points by SMBs, ISPs or their partners. SMBs can simply unbox pre-provisioned access points or scan a QR code to activate and add new access points onto their network.

Airties has received many prestigious industry awards for its innovations, including: “Best Home Wi-Fi Solution Award” from Broadband World Forum; “Best Wi-Fi Service Provider Solution” and “Best Home Wi-Fi Product” awards from Wi-Fi NOW; “Best Wi-Fi Innovation” and “Best-In Home Wi-Fi Network” awards from Wireless Broadband Alliance; “Best Broadband Customer Experience” from Cable & Satellite International; and numerous others.

Additional information about Airties Pro and Airties can be found at: www.airties.com.

About Airties
Airties is a global leader of AI-driven software solutions that improve the connectivity experience for ISPs’ subscribers to help reduce churn, attract new customers, lower operating costs, and innovate. Leveraging insights from millions of managed homes and businesses, Airties provides industry-leading customer experience measurement and optimization for broadband service providers to improve customer satisfaction and NPS scores. Airties’ holistic suite of hardware-agnostic software enables ISPs to manage home connectivity, based on leading industry standards and open-source software, across their fiber, cable/DSL, and fixed wireless access (FWA) deployments. Airties’ customers include leading service providers such as AT&T, Cox, Deutsche Telekom, Telia, Telstra, T-Mobile US, Vodafone, and many others across the world. More information is available at www.airties.com.

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February 27, 2025

[Press Release]

CommScope Announces Next Wave of AI-Driven Solutions for Enterprise Networking from RUCKUS Networks

RUCKUS Networks AI-Driven solutions bring generative, edge, intent-based AI and Nokia’s next-generation optical LAN solution to its industry-leading Wi-Fi 7 portfolio to optimize enterprise networks

February 24, 2025 Claremont, NC

CommScope (NASDAQ: COMM), a global leader in network connectivity, today announced several new AI-driven solutions from RUCKUS Networks that integrate generative, edge, and intent-based AI features with its industry-leading Wi-Fi 7 portfolio to achieve new level of simplicity, automation and customization in enterprise networks.

Additionally, RUCKUS Networks and Nokia are previewing a joint enterprise solution that brings together Nokia’s next-generation optical LAN solution with RUCKUS Wi-Fi APs and the RUCKUS One^® platform. Delivering a fraction of the complexity, space, energy and costs of a traditional copper-based LAN, Nokia’s Optical LAN provides a future-ready, green, high-capacity network alternative for in-building and campus connectivity. The RUCKUS One^® platform will be used to manage Nokia’s optical LAN network, providing enterprises with a single AI-driven platform that can help enhance multi-access network assurance, service delivery and business intelligence. The joint solution will be launched later this year but is available for preview at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) event taking place in Barcelona, booth 2F40.

“Optical LAN is the right technology for enterprise connectivity today and in the future,” stated Geert Heyninck, General Manager of Broadband Networks at Nokia. “Not only is it future-proof, but it can also provide significant operational and sustainable benefits that collectively can help reduce TCO by 50%. But the network is only one part of the enterprise puzzle. We’ve teamed up with RUCKUS Networks to offer businesses a complete solution combining our high-speed optical LAN with their advanced Wi-Fi 7 and AI platform. This future-proof, easy-to-use, green solution is perfect for industries like hospitality, higher education, campus networks, and more.”

“AI is the driving force behind modern networks. Our new range of solutions takes the latest AI innovations and blends them seamlessly into our leading portfolio of Wi-Fi access points to provide a truly enterprise-grade platform that enables new network efficiencies while making management and automation as smart and simple as possible,” stated Bart Giordano, SVP and president, Networking Intelligent Cellular and Security Solutions, CommScope. “At MWC, we’re showcasing these solutions and previewing what AI can do in a fiber-powered enterprise Wi-Fi solution with Nokia. This is the future of intelligent enterprise networks and it showcases how we continue to push the boundaries of AI-driven network innovation.”

“By combining RUCKUS Wi-Fi 7 leadership with Nokia’s strength in optical LAN networks, this solution is poised to flourish in a WLAN market which is expected to grow double-digits in 2025. This innovation will appeal to multi-dwelling units, hotels, and higher-education institutions, allowing them to future-proof fiber-powered campus networks and deliver superior end-user experience,” commented Siân Morgan, Research Director at Dell’Oro Group.

Highlights of the RUCKUS^® AI-Driven Wi-Fi 7 Enterprise Networking Portfolio

IntentAI^™: an AI-driven, intent-based enterprise networking solution. The IntentAI solution is part of the RUCKUS One network assurance and business intelligence platform, and fundamentally changes the way networks are managed by making the business objectives, or business goals, the primary driver in configuration, optimization and management of the network. The IntentAI solution starts with desired business outcomes and leverages AI to reach those goals in the most efficient way possible. The solution uses simple language to communicate how inputs will affect configurations in the network and offers a personalized approach to automation that creates a path towards self-managed and self-healing networks.

GenAI Powered Zero-Touch Network: the solution offers the benefits of generative AI-powered zero-touch network provisioning, increasing IT efficiency and productivity by automating and optimizing industry vertical-specific complex network onboarding processes to deliver smarter enterprise networks.

EquiFlex^™: managed through the IntentAI solution, EquiFlex leverages edge-based AI to boost network capacity by reducing network congestion, especially in high-density environments. It can deliver as much as 20% improvement in connection outcomes, employing a hybrid federated machine learning architecture.

AI-Driven, Fiber-Powered Enterprise Wi-Fi Solution with Nokia: the next wave of AI-driven, multi-access network assurance, service delivery and business intelligence. The solution leverages the AI-driven RUCKUS One platform and the Nokia leading multi-gigabit optical LAN, alongside RUCKUS enterprise-grade Wi-Fi APs.

AI-Driven Managed Services and NaaS: the NaaS solution by RUCKUS Managed Networks is a fully managed platform that provides a wide range of services for customers looking to evolve to full or partial NaaS and for providers looking to offer a white labeled full or partial NaaS offering. From basic utilization of the platform as a managed service to a full turn-key NaaS enablement, it is an investment-protecting bridge to NaaS for our customers and their customers. We are pleased to announce the newest member of our Managed Network Solutions portfolio offering—virtualized broadband network gateway (BNG) as a service. By adopting virtualized BNG from RUCKUS, service providers can modernize their broadband infrastructure to achieve greater flexibility, lower costs and improved service agility, while preparing for future network evolution, including 5G and beyond.

Template-Based Configuration Management Solution: enables IT to deploy and manage network configurations at scale. This solution enables IT to optimize security, control and compliance across large installations. In specific industry verticals such as hospitality, the solution enables IT to deliver and enforce brand compliance.

Wi-Fi 7 Indoor and Outdoor APs: the industry’s most complete portfolio of AI-driven Wi-Fi 7 solutions, including RUCKUS R770; R670 indoor; T670, the industry’s first 6 GHz Standard Power Certified outdoor Wi-Fi 7 solution for delivering purpose-driven networks for a variety of industry verticals; and T670sn, a software-configurable sectorized outdoor Wi-Fi 7 solution.

Availability and Demos
RUCKUS Networks will demonstrate the aforementioned AI-driven solutions and preview its AI-driven fiber-powered joint solution with Nokia in booth 2F40 at MWC, March 3-6.

For more information and availability, 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 and Wi-Fi 7 are trademarks 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.

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February 18, 2025

[Blog]

New Technology Trends Are Reshaping Higher Education

Today’s colleges and universities are facing unprecedented challenges. With changing student demographics, rising tuition costs, new learning models, and rising student expectations, institutions are rethinking the way they engage students, support faculty, and help staff stay productive.

higher-edu-students-on-devices

Fortunately, higher education has long been a springboard for innovation, and today’s campuses are carrying on that tradition. One trend that is top of mind in education is the transformation of student interactions and administrative processes through technology. Although most institutions have long understood the value of learning, many have yet to fully integrate new digital capabilities in campus environments.

According to the Inside Higher Ed 2024 Survey of Campus Chief Technology/Information Officers, almost two in three (61%) personally believe that the digital transformation (Dx) of their institution is essential or at least a high priority. However, only a third (35%) say their institution has set specific goals for digital transformation.

Transforming education and the campus experience

Dx initiatives are strategic in nature, going beyond simply making hybrid, remote, or online learning available to students. At its best, Dx is truly transformative in nature. It’s all about applying technology to deliver a delightful, personalized campus experience. This experience smoothly goes wherever students go, from classrooms and administrative offices to research labs and dorms. Dx also focuses on collecting and intelligently applying data to processes, empowering administrators to make more informed decisions more quickly.

Transformation isn’t only about using better technology but also thinking about it differently. It’s about refocusing technology on performing manual, repetitive tasks that take your faculty and staff away from more important priorities. By offloading menial jobs to technology, you give your team more time to make a bigger impact and think more strategically. It’s the brains behind the notifications that give students, faculty and staff more attention and make them feel more appreciated.

Is your institution keeping pace?

Big changes are happening at institutions worldwide as they focus on achieving Dx by creating a more cohesive digital universe through the cloud, learning management systems (LMS), and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. By modernizing and bringing together disparate elements of their digital infrastructure, colleges and universities can become more efficient and better engage students, faculty, and staff.

At the heart of these ambitious Dx plans is a robust, reliable wireless network. In a world where teaching, learning, and research happen everywhere, high-performance, always-on Wi-Fi^® technology is fundamental to enable network software to accurately collect data, help students feel comfortable, and supporting a diverse array of internet of things (IoT) devices.

Unlocking real education outcomes with RUCKUS

RUCKUS Networks understands the importance of campus connectivity, and we’ve demonstrated our ability to empower colleges and universities to create and maintain purpose-driven networks. From small private colleges to large state-run universities, we offer robust network solutions that create a stable foundation for Dx. With exclusive patented solutions such as BeamFlex^® and ChannelFly^® technology, RUCKUS^® Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 solutions consistently outperform in high-density, high-capacity environments.

For example, Butler University partnered with RUCKUS to refresh and future-proof its aging wired and Wi-Fi network. Based in Indiana, this small private university now delivers dependable connectivity across 300 acres, with faster speeds, more bandwidth, and easy onboarding. With its rapid deployment and simple management and maintenance, the solution has dramatically reduced CapEx and OpEx, saving the institution $1 million.

RUCKUS also helped Penn State modernize its network. Its new infrastructure supports 300 buildings on the University Park campus and 170 buildings across the state, while providing flexibility to grow with the university’s future needs. The institution has reduced power consumption in its buildings, minimized its carbon footprint, and saved millions of dollars.

Digital transformation is just one of several trends that are changing the face of higher education. Institutions are also exploring new innovative ways to make data-based decisions, streamline productivity, entrust technology to take on more responsibilities and enrich the campus experience.

To learn more about what lies on the horizon—and proactively plan for it—read our new eBook, “2025 Top 5 Trends for Higher Education.”

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February 18, 2025

[Press Release]

Wi-Fi Alliance® applauds UK Ofcom’s proposal to expand 6 GHz Wi-Fi® access

Austin, TX, and Washington, D.C. – February 13, 2025 – Wi-Fi Alliance^® welcomes and strongly supports UK Ofcom’s newly released consultation on expanding access to the 6 GHz band for commercial mobile, and Wi-Fi^® services. This proposal represents a significant step forward in ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of wireless innovation and connectivity.

By considering an expansion of Wi-Fi access in the upper 6 GHz band, Ofcom acknowledges the critical role that Wi-Fi plays in delivering high-performance, next-generation connectivity for consumers, businesses, and industries across the UK. The 6 GHz band is essential for enabling cutting-edge applications – even in high-density enterprise environments – such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), immersive reality, telemedicine, and smart manufacturing.

“Wi-Fi Alliance commends Ofcom’s leadership in recognizing the immense benefits of 6 GHz Wi-Fi,” said Alex Roytblat, Vice President of Worldwide Regulatory Affairs at Wi-Fi Alliance. “This proposal underscores the UK’s commitment to fostering digital innovation and ensuring that Wi-Fi remains a cornerstone of connectivity, supporting economic growth and technological advancement.”

Expanding Wi-Fi access in the 6 GHz band will enable delivery of high-performance, low latency, reliable Wi-Fi connectivity to help alleviate congestion and enhance broadband performance. The expansion will also ensure that UK consumers and enterprises can fully leverage the latest Wi-Fi technologies, including Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7.

Wi-Fi Alliance looks forward to engaging with Ofcom throughout the consultation process and collaborating with stakeholders to ensure that the UK’s spectrum policy supports an open, competitive, and innovation-driven wireless ecosystem.

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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February 18, 2025

[Blog]

Wi-Fi 8 white paper: Reliable Communications

MediaTek has published a second white paper, detailing Reliable Communications in Wi-Fi 8. If you missed the first white paper, which focused on Fast, Efficient Spectrum, you can find it here.

This new white paper discusses how Wi-Fi 8 is designed to seamlessly integrate with cellular networks for internet access, how it increases opportunities for wireless data transmission and spectrum efficiency through Non-Primary Channel Access (NPCA) and In-Device Coexistence (IDC), and how it reduces long-tail latency via TXOP Preemption and High Priority EDCA (HIP-EDCA).

Wi-Fi 8, broadly speaking, prioritizes a generational improvement in connection robustness and reliability over merely increasing headline speeds. This specifically involves enhancing wireless spectrum accessibility and minimizing the long-tail latency of wireless interactions.

Wi-Fi has emerged as the most viable alternative to traditional wireline connectivity solutions, offering the convenience of cable-free flexibility for devices like laptops and televisions. While the peak throughput of Wi-Fi often exceeds the requirements of many applications, users may occasionally experience intermittent jitter during activities such as streaming, gaming, or video conferencing.

This highlights Wi-Fi’s susceptibility to local environmental factors that affect signal quality and consistency. With Wi-Fi access now a staple in virtually every household and the increasing adoption of wireless personal and smart home devices, interference is inevitable. The situation becomes further complicated with the widespread deployment of multiple access points (APs) or mesh networks, which often share the same channel to minimize channel-switching latency. Consequently, the throughput experienced by a user at any given moment may be significantly lower than the peak throughput, leading to intermittent connectivity even when signal quality appears adequate.

Our goal is to address the actual performance users can achieve in typical, everyday Wi-Fi environments. Key enabling technologies include NPCA, IDC, latency and QoS enhancements via preemption, and HIP-EDCA. Their impact on enhancing communication reliability is illustrated in the following real-life scenarios.

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