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October 22, 2026: Extreme Agent ONE Coworker Saves Customers 1,000 Hours in First Month of Availability

Ambient AI delivers roughly 10x the engagement of first-generation conversational AI;  Customers acted on 98% of critical nudges, leading to…

October 21, 2026: TP-Link Systems Inc. and Key Tronic Sign Letter of Intent to Bring Router Assembly to the United States

Strategic partnership reinforces U.S. investment, enhances supply chain security, and launches new era of domestic production Highlights: U.S.-based TP-Link deepens…

October 19, 2026: New Plume Console Multiplies ISP Business Results by Putting AI Agents to Work on Cost to Serve, Churn Reduction and Revenue Growth

Plume Console gives every ISP team AI agents that autonomously find and resolve complex subscriber issues, turn months of analysis…

October 19, 2026: At Open Compute Project (OCP) Global Summit, HPE highlights its strategy and offerings to support the future of AI across compute, networking, and large-scale infrastructure

In this article HPE is contributing to open, diverse technologies across the stack in compute, networking and large-scale HPC and…

October 19, 2026: Fix Teams, Zoom, and Webex Wi-Fi Issues | 7SIGNAL

Video meetings are the least forgiving applications on the network, and most of them start on Wi-Fi. 7SIGNAL gives IT…

October 19, 2026: AsiaRF & WiBRAVO at SKYDD 2026 : Advancing Intelligent Connectivity for Security & Public Safety

CONNECTING SECURITY. PROTECTING WHAT MATTERS. Next-Gen Connectivity for Security & Public Safety Wi-Fi HaLow • Edge AI • Body-Worn Camera…

October 19, 2026: Modern retail networks are secure, simple, and ready for what’s next

When a store’s point-of-sale (POS) system stalls during a holiday rush, the impact means longer lines, frustrated shoppers, and missed…

October 19, 2026: Shadow AI Is Already Causing Security Incidents

Every IT team knows employees are using AI tools nobody approved. Most have accepted it as a cost of doing…

October 19, 2026: How a Firmware Abstraction Layer for Multi-Radio Products can De-risk your Roadmap

Perfectly good projects are going off the rails and missing their ship dates, because of worldwide chip shortages, as the…

October 19, 2026: Introducing ZPC - A Faster and Extensible Approach to Z-Wave Controller Development

Manufacturers of wireless devices are always looking to design products that deliver valuable and differentiated experiences to customers. While developing…

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September 1, 2025
[Blog]

Top 10 WiFi Problems in SMEs and Education (2025)

In 2025, reliable Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury — it’s an essential infrastructure. Whether it’s a school with hundreds of students relying on cloud-based learning platforms or a mid-sized business supporting hybrid work and IoT devices, connectivity is at the heart of daily operations. Yet across both SMEs and educational institutions, common WiFi-related challenges persist, hindering efficiency, learning, and security.

https://www.netgear.com/hub/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/wifi-for-schools-gi-658984461.jpg

Schools Depend on Connectivity

The WiFi challenges of today aren’t just technical — they’re operational. SMEs and schools alike are grappling with an increased dependency on connectivity, but lack the corresponding tools, budget, or expertise to manage it effectively. Addressing these issues requires more than just new hardware — it demands smart design, cloud-managed platforms, enhanced security practices, and education for both IT staff and users. Here are the top 10 issues we found at NETGEAR Enterprise.

1. Inconsistent WiFi Coverage

Inconsistent WiFi coverage remains a widespread issue, especially in buildings not originally designed for dense networking. Many offices and schools still deal with dead zones, particularly in stairwells, corners, older classrooms, and meeting rooms. Extending coverage with mesh or additional APs is often a patchwork solution rather than a holistic redesign.

2. Network Performance Under Strain

Network performance under heavy load is another pain point. With most users now carrying at least two to three connected devices — laptops, phones, tablets, even wearables — legacy networks are buckling under the strain. Classrooms with 30 students or small offices with high device density suffer from slow speeds and frequent drop-offs, especially during video conferencing or streaming.

3. Security Concerns Intensified

Security concerns have intensified as networks have become more open and accessible. Many organizations still lack robust user authentication, segmentation, or proper firewall configurations. Guest networks often overlap with internal traffic, creating exposure. In schools, unmanaged student devices present additional risk, while SMEs struggle to enforce consistent access policies across distributed teams.

4. Network Management Challenges

Network management is often reactive rather than proactive. Both sectors typically lack real-time visibility into performance, device behavior, or potential bottlenecks. Without centralized cloud-based management, IT teams waste time manually troubleshooting rather than focusing on optimization.

5. Budget Limitations = Delayed Upgrades

Budget limitations lead to outdated infrastructure. It’s not uncommon to find organizations still running WiFi 4 or early WiFi 5 equipment. The result is poor compatibility with newer devices and an inability to benefit from modern features, such as OFDMA or advanced beamforming. These institutions are caught in a cycle of deferred upgrades, unable to justify the capital expense without a crisis.

6. Scalability Challenges

Scalability challenges are especially pronounced in growing organizations. Adding new users, devices, or even temporary spaces, such as pop-up classrooms or remote

offices, often disrupts the network design. The original WiFi layout rarely supports organic growth, leading to patchy expansion strategies.

7. Environmental Interference

Environmental interference is another overlooked factor. Dense urban areas, legacy building materials such as brick and concrete, or even neighboring Wi-Fi networks can degrade performance. Schools in older buildings and SMEs in multi-tenant offices often face signal disruption from external sources beyond their control.

8. Guest access Overlooked

Guest access is usually an afterthought. Few organizations properly segment guest traffic or apply bandwidth limits. This can lead to visitors consuming more than their fair share of resources or, worse, creating security liabilities. A lack of automated provisioning or self-service portals further complicates this.

9. Bandwidth Uncontrolled

Bandwidth misuse and lack of filtering are ongoing issues, particularly in education. Without proper content controls or traffic shaping, streaming, gaming, and unauthorized cloud services can consume excessive bandwidth, reducing availability for critical applications. The same applies in business environments, where productivity can suffer due to unrestricted access.

10. Out of Date Networks

Finally, networks are failing to keep pace with new technologies. While WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 are being rolled out, many organizations are years behind in their adoption. New devices, such as smartboards, security cameras, and collaboration tools, demand more from networks that were never designed to handle such loads. Without support for multi-gig backhaul, proper AP placement, or future-ready switching, performance suffers — even on the latest hardware.

Would you like us to help solve your Wi-Fi problems? Contact NETGEAR for a free consultancy.

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September 1, 2025
[Blog]

Wireless Medical Electronics Testing Trade-offs: Chip-on-Board vs. Modules

Medical devices are increasingly wireless, supporting patient care, monitoring and diagnostics through technologies like 4G LTE/5G cellular, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®. When defining their products, medical companies invariably encounter a key integration option: should they embed wireless functions using a proprietary chip-on-board (CoB) design or rely on a pre-certified module from a third-party provider? The decision can directly influence product development costs and timelines, regulatory testing loads and final product performance.

This foundational design decision is becoming more important as the medical community strives to meet demand for wearable monitors and diagnostic devices and expands use cases for in-home remote health management and rural locales where hospital access may be difficult. The differences between these approaches have a direct bearing on how manufacturers design, certify and test their devices as they prepare them for volume manufacturing. And as demand grows, many medical companies find that their “make vs. buy” decisions are informed by the degree to which they have access to in-house RF engineering expertise.

Balancing Flexibility and Simplicity During Product Development

For space-constrained or highly customized devices, chip-on-board affords designers tighter control over integration and device operation. This enables more flexibility when it comes to product form factor and performance features. However, CoB also requires significant RF engineering knowledge; it depends on close – and often time-intensive – collaboration with chipset vendors, and demands extensive debug cycles during development.

Source: Ezurio

Modules simplify the path to integration. These off-the-shelf components are pre-tested and pre-certified, reducing the burden on device manufacturers. They enable faster development cycles and are often preferable for medical companies that prioritize clinical function over RF customization. The trade-off is cost – modules are typically more expensive – but they reduce engineering time, complexity and risk.

A common hybrid approach involves combining both: for instance, using a 5G module due to regulatory complexity and CoB for Wi-Fi to save space or cost.

How Manufacturing Affects Test Time and Scalability

Testing is critical in wireless device production. CoB designs require more comprehensive RF test coverage, including direct chipset control and access to factory test modes. While this enables extensive validation, it also increases test time and demands more from manufacturing teams.

 

Modules, on the other hand, have limited access to internal test modes. Testing is often conducted through AT (attention) commands with reduced test coverage. This results in shorter test times and easier scalability for high-volume production.

Both approaches scale similarly in terms of physical factory setup; it’s test throughput per unit that differs. LitePoint supports both scenarios with test automation solutions and multi-device testing platforms that optimizes units-per-hour (UPH) even with expanded test coverage.

Juggling the Variabilities of Compliance and Final Product Testing

CoB-based designs place the full regulatory burden on the OEM, including FCC wireless compliance in the United States and international certifications such as EU-mandated conformity assessment (CE) testing. This includes emissions, coexistence and RF exposure tests. Modules alleviate much of this by offering pre-certification, especially for complex technologies like 5G, which operate in licensed spectrum.

However, assuming a module requires no further testing is a common mistake. Even pre-certified modules must undergo final product validation, as antenna placement, housing materials and PCB layout can affect wireless performance. LitePoint emphasizes the need for end-to-end testing, ensuring the assembled product performs to specification – especially for mission-critical medical applications.

 

Each wireless protocol – Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 5G – has unique test cases. Bluetooth Low Energy and Bluetooth Classic, for example, differ in respect to the modulation scheme, limits on frequency deviation, sensitivity, etc. When products support multiple radios, coexistence testing is essential to ensure technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth operating at 2.4 GHz do not interfere with each other.

Why LitePoint is the Right Test Partner

LitePoint’s value extends beyond test equipment. We provide the RF expertise, support and turnkey automation that medical OEMs need, in addition to the industry’s largest installed base of more than 350 wireless chipsets. For companies unfamiliar with RF or constrained by timelines, LitePoint’s controlled test environment offers:

  • Out-of-the-box automation software tailored for chipsets and modules
  • Test coverage for several wireless technologies including but not limited to 4G/5G, Wi-Fi 6/6E/7, Bluetooth Classic and Bluetooth Low Energy
  • Scalable solutions, including over-the-air and multi-device testing
  • Testing that extends beyond Pass/Fail to deliver insights on transmit quality analysis
  • Industry-leading customer support that shortens debug and validation cycle

LitePoint enables medical device companies to focus on clinical performance while ensuring wireless quality and compliance. Whether choosing CoB, module integration or a mix of both, LitePoint simplifies testing and accelerates time to market by delivering faster testing speeds to expedite production throughput and reduces test errors to improve yields.

The choice between chip-on-board and modules in medical electronics isn’t binary. It depends on form factor, engineering bandwidth, time-to-market goals and regulatory obligations. What is consistent, however, is the need for reliable, robust, flexible and scalable testing.

Read full release
September 1, 2025
[Blog]

Battling Wi-Fi Interference: Why you’re showing connected, but the data’s not getting through

Battling Wi-Fi Interference: Why you’re showing connected, but the data's not getting through

Key Takeaways:

  • 75% of home Wi-Fi suffers interference and slowdowns during peak usage periods.
  • MediaTek Anti-Interference can mitigate >95% Wi-Fi interference.
  • The result? Up to 30% faster throughput and 60% lower latency during peak use.

Wi-Fi has become the invisible lifeline of modern life, powering how we work, stream, game, shop, browse, and connect with one another. But as Wi-Fi has become ever-present in almost every device, it’s also continually fighting the problem of interference.

Think about a multi-story apartment building. Each family installs its own Wi-Fi router or mesh of routers, separated from the next only by a wall or a floor. Before long, dozens of signals overlap, competing for space on the same channels. The result? Slower speeds, dropped connections, and frustrating lag. The same issue appears in neighborhoods, offices, public spaces, and increasingly even in vehicles that offer in-car Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, where passengers are exposed to waves of competing signals.

Meanwhile, temporary peer-to-peer connections, like sharing files or casting videos, can also clash with local networks, hurting performance on both sides.

Engineers categorize these problems into two types: Co-Channel Interference (CCI), which occurs when networks fight over the same channel, and Adjacent-Channel Interference (ACI), which occurs when nearby channels bleed into each other. Both cause slower speeds, higher latency, and unstable connections.

While solutions like band steering and channel switching help reduce congestion, they’re not perfect and can sometimes cause devices to disconnect or stop responding. That’s why next-generation anti-interference technologies are becoming so important. By intelligently managing channel use in real time, they promise faster, more reliable Wi-Fi in crowded environments without causing the headaches of connection drops or slowdowns.

In short: as our reliance on Wi-Fi keeps growing, smarter ways to fight interference are key to keeping our digital lives connected. Read our white paper to discover MediaTek’s proposals for a series of effective Wi-Fi anti-interference technologies, including Universal Bandwidth Adaptation (UBA), Customized Preamble Puncture (CPP), Enhanced Spatial Reuse (ESR), and Coordinated Spatial Reuse (CSR).

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September 1, 2025
[Blog]

Why Smart Home Technology Wins: Multifamily’s Competitive Edge

Multifamily housing faces unprecedented competitive pressure. With hundreds of thousands of new units entering the market and residents increasingly dissatisfied with existing amenities, property owners need strategic advantages that deliver measurable returns. A report from Apartment Guide found that 36% of multifamily housing residents are unhappy with their current amenities, with fast, reliable Wi-Fi being one of the top desired amenities (even more so for Gen Z and millennial residents). At the same time, new apartment supply has been pressuring rent growth.

The solution isn’t just more amenities – it’s smarter infrastructure. For example, residents say that managed Wi-Fi is a deal-maker, ranking above parking and an on-site gym combined. Property owners who invest strategically in technology for multifamily properties create competitive advantages that attract residents, streamline operations, and generate new revenue streams. The key lies in focusing on infrastructure-level solutions that deliver measurable returns rather than trendy gadgets that quickly become outdated.

What Residents Actually Want: Data-Driven Insights

Recent surveys reveal clear patterns in resident priorities. A large study by NMHC/Grace Hill indicates that 87% of renters view the availability of internet access immediately on move-in as either very important or absolutely essential. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about eliminating friction during the critical move-in period when resident satisfaction forms.

Smart access control technology also shows strong demand, with renters saying they would pay a premium for smart locks and other access control features. The vast majority of renters surveyed want at least one smart device in their home, with smart locks being one of the top choices.

Residents are also seeking improved security, including access controls and common area security cameras. Of residents living in security camera-monitored complexes, 70% of those surveyed said they felt the cameras were effective in preventing crime.

This trend toward technology-enabled convenience reflects broader lifestyle changes. Home office spaces, high-speed internet connectivity, and communal areas designed for collaboration have become key selling points for multifamily communities. Remote work has fundamentally shifted what residents expect from their living spaces.

example of a multifamily property

Three Strategic Technology Investments That Transform Properties

1. Enterprise-Grade Internet Infrastructure and Managed Services

Internet connectivity isn’t truly an amenity anymore – it’s essential infrastructure that guests expect along with their standard utilities. Surveys indicate that apartment renters and condo owners increasingly expect a seamless connectivity experience both within their individual unit and throughout the community. Multifamily properties can meet this expectation effectively with managed Wi-Fi, a system that provides residents with reliable internet service throughout the property. And in fact, according to NMHC, renters are increasingly interested in managed Wi-Fi.

WorldVue’s approach goes beyond providing basic internet. Our enterprise-grade networking solutions create the foundation for smart building capabilities while delivering managed services that reduce operational headaches for property managers. When residents experience connectivity issues, they contact WorldVue’s 24/7 support team rather than the overwhelmed leasing staff.

This infrastructure investment pays dividends across multiple areas. Reliable connectivity enables other smart technologies to function, including climate control, lighting, access controls, and security camera solutions. It supports the growing demand for home office and entertainment capabilities. Most importantly, it eliminates one of the most common sources of resident complaints and maintenance requests.

The managed service model also provides predictable revenue streams for properties while offering residents premium connectivity and support without the hassle of coordinating individual internet installations.

2. Comprehensive Access Control Systems

Traditional key management creates ongoing operational burdens. Lost keys require expensive lock changes. Key tracking becomes increasingly complex as properties scale. While multifamily properties haven’t been rushing to implement smart access controls, properties that lag on this are missing significant operational and revenue opportunities.

WorldVue’s access control solutions address multiple pain points simultaneously. Our systems integrate smart door locks with comprehensive visitor management, allowing property managers to control doors across properties from any mobile device and manage vendor access efficiently. Residents can open doors, control smart apartment features, pay rent, and submit work orders via one mobile app, creating a unified experience that increases satisfaction and retention.

The technology enables prospects to run their own tours while the property stays secure, reducing staff time while improving the leasing experience. Property managers can set access control schedules, manage permissions, and receive alerts for important access events, providing both operational efficiency and enhanced security.

Smart access control also creates new revenue opportunities. Properties can charge premium rents for units with smart access features while reducing operational costs by eliminating key replacement expenses and minimizing locksmith visits.

3. Integrated Security and Common Area Monitoring

Common areas represent a significant investment in multifamily properties. Still, many owners struggle to maximize their value while ensuring resident safety. WorldVue’s cloud-based video surveillance solutions provide reliable remote monitoring, allowing staff to address issues before they escalate while creating a safe and comfortable environment for residents.

Our surveillance systems offer video monitoring with remote access and the ability to navigate quickly between views across multiple locations. The technology works with over 3000 compatible devices, accommodating new equipment or integrating existing analog systems. AI-based remote monitoring provides alerts if a camera is blocked, someone is in an unauthorized area, or unusual loitering occurs.

Integration with access control systems provides comprehensive security for sensitive locations while giving property teams complete visibility into common area usage patterns. This data drives decisions about amenity placement, operating hours, and space allocation while reducing liability concerns for owners.

Smart cameras and monitoring systems also help property managers understand how residents use shared spaces, enabling data-driven improvements that increase satisfaction and property value.

The Revenue Impact of Strategic Investment in Technology for Multifamily Properties

Technology investments in multifamily properties generate measurable returns through multiple channels. Properties that implement smart home technology see a 3-5% rise in valuation and a remarkable 30% average ROI, as well as increased rent rates. This makes smart home technology one of the best ways to achieve leasing success.

Recent research indicates that renters are willing to pay premiums for smart features and improved security. Beyond premium rents, operational cost savings prove substantial by decreasing or eliminating the need for staff intervention for basic tasks like internet troubleshooting, lockouts, and vendor access.

Properties that invest in comprehensive technology infrastructure position themselves to meet evolving resident expectations while generating quantifiable returns. The key lies in selecting technology partners who understand the unique operational requirements of multifamily housing and can deliver enterprise-grade reliability.

WorldVue’s experience serving over 8000 properties worldwide provides a deep understanding of how technology infrastructure supports property operations at scale. Our 24/7/365 multilingual support team ensures that technology systems remain functional when residents need them most, eliminating the burden on property staff for routine technology issues. Our focus on enterprise-grade solutions means investments in technology for multifamily properties continue delivering value as properties scale and evolve.

The WorldVue advantage extends beyond design and installation to comprehensive management. Our unified platform approach integrates with existing property management systems, providing property teams with centralized control across connectivity, access, and security systems. This integration reduces complexity while enabling data-driven decision-making through comprehensive analytics and reporting.

Implementation Strategy: Infrastructure-First Approach for Scalable Results

Successful multifamily technology implementation begins with robust infrastructure rather than flashy consumer-facing features. This infrastructure-first approach delivers immediate operational benefits while creating the foundation for future technology expansion. Properties typically see initial returns within six months, with full ROI realized within three years.

Reliable internet connectivity enables all other smart building capabilities while reducing resident service calls. Managed Wi-Fi adds additional benefits by improving service and reducing the burden on property staff. Comprehensive access control systems provide both operational benefits and resident convenience. Strategic security and monitoring technology creates environments that support modern lifestyle preferences while providing measurable safety improvements.

WorldVue’s integrated approach combines enterprise-grade connectivity, smart access control, and cloud-based surveillance into cohesive systems that work together seamlessly. This integration reduces complexity for property teams and creates unified experiences for residents. The scalability built into WorldVue solutions means a 50-unit property can achieve the same benefits of enterprise-grade infrastructure as a 500-unit development, with systems that grow alongside property portfolios.

The multifamily market continues to evolve as residents seek technology-enabled convenience and property managers require operational efficiency. Properties that invest strategically in infrastructure-level technology solutions create sustainable competitive advantages that attract residents, reduce costs, and generate premium rents.

Transform Your Property with Infrastructure That Delivers Results

Smart multifamily properties don’t just install technology – they implement strategic infrastructure that drives measurable results. The technology and managed services provided by WorldVue yield higher occupancy rates, reduced operational costs, increased resident satisfaction, and the ability to command premium rents that justify investments in technology for multifamily properties.

WorldVue’s comprehensive multifamily solutions combine 50 years of property technology expertise with enterprise-grade infrastructure, intelligent access control, and advanced common area security camera systems. Our infrastructure-first approach ensures properties see immediate operational improvements while building long-term competitive advantages through technology that residents value and prefer.

The difference lies in choosing a technology advisor that understands multifamily operations, provides reliable 24/7 support, and delivers solutions that scale with your business goals. Properties that invest strategically in WorldVue’s integrated infrastructure see sustained improvements in both resident satisfaction and property performance.

Ready to see how strategic technology infrastructure can transform your multifamily property’s operational efficiency and resident experience? Contact WorldVue to explore solutions designed specifically for your property’s unique needs and growth objectives.

Read full release
August 20, 2025
[Press Release]

From Smart Farms to Smart Cities: AsiaRF Launches HaLowFly USB Wireless Network Card for Seamless IoT Connectivity in 10 Seconds.

As dawn breaks over a smart farm, automated irrigation systems deliver precise hydration to each crop. At nightfall in the city, intelligent streetlights adjust their brightness to match the flow of pedestrians and traffic. Inside modern factories, robotic arms and sensors work in perfect harmony, driving production efficiency to new heights.Taipei, Taiwan – AsiaRF officially launched the HaLowFly USB wireless network card today, allowing various devices to connect to Wi-Fi HaLow networks in just a few seconds without the need for driver installation or complicated settings. Simply plug it in and use it, revolutionizing the complexity and slowness of traditional IoT deployments.

Behind these seamless scenes lies the backbone of modern innovation — stable, long-range, low-power IoT connectivity. Now, AsiaRF is setting a new benchmark with the launch of the HaLowFly USB Wi-Fi adapter.

Plug-and-Play Wi-Fi HaLow: IoT Without the Wait
Unveiled today, the HaLowFly USB Wi-Fi dongle lets devices connect to Wi-Fi HaLow networks in just seconds — with no driver installation, no complex configuration, and no technical headaches. Simply plug it in, and it’s ready to work.

Its standout feature: true cross-platform compatibility. HaLowFly supports Windows, Linux, Unix, macOS, iOS, and Android. Whether for PCs, tablets, or embedded systems and mobile phones, any device with a USB port can instantly join a long-range IoT network.With kilometer- level wireless coverage, HaLowFly delivers seamless audio and video streaming across vast distances.

Built for Harsh Environments
Inside, an industrial-grade HaLow radio module powers ultra-low-energy, high-stability connections. On the outside, a durable housing shields it from demanding conditions. Optional high-gain external antennas extend performance even further.

From open-air farm monitoring stations to factory automation lines, and from urban safety surveillance to emergency response systems, HaLowFly maintains a secure, stable link — even in heat, humidity, dust, or interference-heavy settings.

10-Second Connection: Efficiency at Its Core
First-time setup takes about 10 seconds. Unplug-and-reconnect takes the same. Connection settings can be managed through any web browser — no extra software needed. In contrast to competing solutions requiring special drivers or custom firmware, HaLowFly’s instant-connect design reduces deployment time, minimizes maintenance needs, and lowers operational costs.

Key Advantages
• Cross-Platform Compatibility – Works across all major operating systems with one
device.
• True Plug-and-Play – No drivers, no delays, online in seconds.
• Industrial Reliability – Continuous operation in harsh conditions.
• Long-Range + Low Power – Broad IoT coverage with minimal energy usage.

Pricing & Availability
Officially priced at US$139, HaLowFly is now available at a limited-time introductory pre-order price of US$99.

AsiaRF’s Vision
As a pioneer in IoT connectivity, AsiaRF continues to break barriers with innovative technology. The HaLowFly USB Wi-Fi adapter is poised to accelerate global adoption of cross-platform, long- range IoT — powering the future of smart cities, precision agriculture, industrial automation, and beyond.

For more information about the product or Wi-Fi HaLow solution, please contact AsiaRF.

media contact
Paul Lai
AsiaRF Co., Ltd.
Tel: +886 2 2940 7880
Email: [email protected]

Read full release
August 19, 2025
[Blog]

How Aprecomm Made PETCOM’s Network Work Smarter, Not Harder

About PETCOM:

Petcom Eletrônica e Comunicações (PETCOM), founded in 1990, is a leading provider of comprehensive optical network solutions in Brazil. With over three decades of experience, PETCOM has established itself as a key player in the telecommunications infrastructure sector, specializing in optical networks, structured cabling, electronic security systems, and fiber optic communication systems.

The company holds a unique market position as the primary government partner in the Digital Cities initiative, serving telecommunications operators, internet service providers (ISPs), optical equipment manufacturers, federal, state and municipal governments, integrators, banks, and data centers. PETCOM’s commitment to innovation drives them to continuously introduce new products and expand their cloud and ISP services across residential, enterprise, and government customer segments.

Situation: 

PETCOM was facing mounting pressure to modernize its network management capabilities given the expanding customer base and rising service expectations.

This mirrored industry trends towards greater adoption of advanced sophisticated tools for network infrastructure management, driven by the accelerating pace of digital transformation among telecoms.

As a government partner in the Digital Cities project, PETCOM also needed to ensure rapid response times and minimal service disruptions across their extensive network. The company acknowledged that traditional manual approaches to network management were becoming increasingly unsustainable as they scaled their operations to meet growing demand from diverse customer segments.

The challenge became particularly acute as PETCOM’s reputation for reliability and innovation was at stake. Their customers expected seamless service delivery, and any delays in issue resolution could significantly impact critical government services and business operations across their client base.

Industry Landscape:

The telecommunications infrastructure sector was also experiencing key trends that directly impacted PETCOM’s operational requirements:

  • Increased demand for network automation driven by the complexity of modern optical networks
  • Rising customer expectations for faster resolution times and proactive service management
  • Government digital transformation initiatives requiring enhanced reliability and rapid deployment capabilities
  • Growing operational costs associated with traditional truck roll dispatches and manual troubleshooting
  • Industry shift toward remote network management and self-healing network capabilities

Pain Points:

The traditional network management system at PETCOM created operational bottlenecks that adversely impacted the customer experience. It was also limiting their competitiveness and restricting their ability to achieve greater growth.

Specific operational challenges included:

  • Slow response times to customer network issues affecting service quality
  • High operational expenses due to frequent truck rolls for on-site troubleshooting
  • Limited automation capabilities resulting in reactive rather than proactive network management
  • Inefficient resource allocation with technical staff spending excessive time on routine issues
  • Lack of real-time visibility into network performance and customer equipment status

Solution: 

Aprecomm implemented their Vyom Configuration server (VCS) a TR-069 auto configuration server (ACS) solution to address PETCOM’s automation and customer support challenges. The solution was deployed on-premises, providing PETCOM with complete control over their network management infrastructure while ensuring compliance with government security requirements.

The VCS deployment and implementation process was remarkably efficient, with fully functional operations restored shortly after the deployment. Aprecomm’s streamlined implementation methodology and the strong, collaborative relationship existing between the two companies made the rapid deployment possible.

The VCS solution leveraged TR-069 protocol standards to enable automated device management and remote troubleshooting capabilities, transforming PETCOM’s network operations from reactive to proactive management.

Outcome:

The VCS implementation delivered significant technical enhancements to PETCOM’s network management capabilities:

  • Automated network device management enabling remote configuration and troubleshooting of customer premises equipment (CPE)
  • Real-time network visibility providing comprehensive insights into network performance and device status
  • Proactive issue detection allowing PETCOM to identify and resolve problems before they impact customers
  • Intuitive management interface enabling technicians to efficiently manage endcustomer ONT devices
  • Rich feature set providing comprehensive tools for network monitoring and device management
  • Streamlined customer support processes reducing the time required to diagnose and resolve network issues
  • Enhanced operational efficiency through automated routine maintenance and configuration tasks

Business Impact:

PETCOM achieved measurable operational improvements and strategic advantages:

  • Significant reduction in response times to customer network issues through faster issue identification and resolution capabilities
  • Substantial decrease in operational expenses through reduced truck roll requirements
  • Improved resource utilization allowing technical staff to focus on strategic initiatives
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction resulting from reduced service interruption times, proactive support and improved service quality.
  • Strengthened competitive position in the government and enterprise markets
  • Foundation for future growth with scalable automation capabilities supporting business expansion

 

Mr. Bruno Moreira, CTO, PETCOM ELETRONICA E COMUNICACOES

“We selected Aprecomm’s VCS platform for its robust feature set, intuitive user experience, and Aprecomm’s proven track record in broadband network management. Their solution directly supports our strategic priorities: enhancing customer experience through automation, improving service quality, and reducing operational costs. With VCS, we’re better positioned to manage and optimize our broadband infrastructure — delivering greater performance, reliability, and satisfaction to our customers.”

Read full release
August 19, 2025
[Blog]

Wi-Fi HaLow: Top 20 Questions Explained in Detail

What is Wi-Fi HaLow (IEEE 802.11ah)?

Explanation:

Wi-Fi HaLow is a wireless communication standard specifically designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It’s an extension of the familiar Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) family of standards but operates in the sub-1 GHz frequency band (typically 900 MHz, though it varies by region). This lower frequency allows for longer range, better penetration through obstacles, and lower power consumption compared to traditional Wi-Fi operating at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. It aims to provide a robust and power-efficient way to connect a large number of IoT devices over relatively long distances.

Example:

Imagine a smart farm where numerous sensors monitor soil moisture, temperature, and livestock location across a large area. Wi-Fi HaLow can connect all these sensors to a central gateway, even if they are hundreds of meters or even a kilometer away and powered by small batteries.

How is Wi-Fi HaLow different from traditional Wi-Fi (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, Wi-Fi 6/6E/7)?

Explanation:

  • Frequency: Traditional Wi-Fi uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (and now 6 GHz for Wi-Fi 6E/7), which are suitable for high data rates but have shorter ranges and poorer object penetration. Wi-Fi HaLow uses sub-1 GHz frequencies (e.g., 902-928 MHz in the US, 863-868 MHz in Europe).
  • Range: HaLow offers significantly longer range (up to 1 km or more) compared to the tens of meters typical for traditional Wi-Fi.
  • Data Rate: Traditional Wi-Fi offers much higher data rates (hundreds of Mbps to several Gbps) suitable for streaming video, web Browse, and large file transfers. HaLow offers lower data rates (tens of kbps to tens of Mbps), optimized for sending small packets of sensor data, not high-bandwidth applications.
  • Power Consumption: HaLow is designed for ultra-low power consumption, allowing devices to run on batteries for years. Traditional Wi-Fi is more power-hungry.
  • Device Density: HaLow access points are designed to handle thousands of connected devices, whereas traditional Wi-Fi access points typically support a few dozen to a couple of hundred clients efficiently.

Example:

Your home Wi-Fi router (traditional Wi-Fi) is great for streaming Netflix on your TV (high data rate, shorter range). A Wi-Fi HaLow gateway, on the other hand, might be used in a large warehouse to connect hundreds of small inventory tracking tags, each sending only a tiny amount of location data periodically and needing to conserve battery.

What are the main advantages of Wi-Fi HaLow?

Explanation:

  • Extended Range: Signals travel further due to the lower frequency.
  • Lower Power Consumption: Enables battery-operated devices to last for months or years.
  • Better Material Penetration: Sub-GHz signals pass through walls, floors, and other obstacles more effectively than 2.4/5 GHz signals.
  • High Device Capacity: Can support thousands of devices per access point.
  • IP-Based: Native IP support simplifies integration with existing internet infrastructure and cloud platforms.
  • Standardized Technology: Being part of the IEEE 802.11 family offers potential for interoperability and leveraging existing Wi-Fi knowledge.
  • Robust Security: Can leverage established Wi-Fi security mechanisms like WPA3.

Example: A smart city might deploy Wi-Fi HaLow for its public lighting system. Thousands of streetlights can be individually controlled and monitored for faults over a wide area. The signals can reliably reach controllers inside metal streetlight poles, and the low power consumption means backup batteries for the controllers can last a long time during outages.

In which frequency band does Wi-Fi HaLow operate, and why is it significant?

Explanation: Wi-Fi HaLow operates in the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) radio bands below 1 Gigahertz (Sub-1 GHz). The exact frequencies vary by region: for instance, 902-928 MHz in North America, 863-868 MHz in Europe, and other bands in Asia. This is significant because lower frequencies inherently have physical properties that allow radio waves to travel longer distances and penetrate objects like walls and foliage more effectively than higher frequencies (like 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). There’s also generally less congestion in these sub-GHz bands compared to the crowded 2.4 GHz band.

Example: Imagine trying to connect a sensor in a basement or deep within a concrete building. A traditional 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal might struggle to reach it. A Wi-Fi HaLow signal, operating around 900 MHz, has a much better chance of penetrating the concrete and establishing a reliable connection.

What kind of data speeds or throughput can be expected from Wi-Fi HaLow?

Explanation: Wi-Fi HaLow is not designed for high-speed data transfer like streaming video. Its data rates are optimized for the small, infrequent bursts of data typical of IoT devices. Speeds can range from as low as a few hundred kilobits per second (kbps) for very long-range and robust links, up to several tens of megabits per second (Mbps) for shorter ranges and wider channel bandwidths. The actual throughput depends on factors like distance, channel width (1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 MHz), modulation scheme, and environmental interference.

Example: A remote weather station using Wi-Fi HaLow might send a small packet of data (temperature, humidity, wind speed) every 10 minutes. For this, a data rate of 150 kbps is more than sufficient and helps maximize range and power efficiency. It wouldn’t be suitable for live-streaming video from that station.

What is the effective range of Wi-Fi HaLow? Can it truly reach 1 kilometer or more?

Explanation: Yes, Wi-Fi HaLow is designed for ranges significantly exceeding traditional Wi-Fi, often cited as up to 1 kilometer or even further in ideal line-of-sight (LoS) conditions. In non-LoS environments (e.g., urban areas, indoors with many walls), the range will be less but still substantially better than 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi. The achievable range depends on factors like transmit power, antenna gain, receiver sensitivity, environmental obstructions, and the required data rate (lower data rates typically achieve longer ranges).

Example: An agricultural application could use a Wi-Fi HaLow access point on a farmhouse to connect to irrigation controllers and soil sensors spread across fields up to a kilometer away, eliminating the need for complex wiring or multiple short-range repeaters.

How does Wi-Fi HaLow achieve its low power consumption?

Explanation: Wi-Fi HaLow incorporates several mechanisms to minimize power consumption:

  • Long Sleep Cycles: Devices can enter deep sleep modes for extended periods, waking up only briefly to transmit or receive data.
  • Efficient Data Transmission: Optimized protocols for sending small data packets.
  • Target Wake Time (TWT): Allows the access point to schedule specific times for devices to wake up, reducing idle listening.
  • Narrower Bandwidths: Using narrower channel bandwidths (e.g., 1 or 2 MHz) requires less power for transmission and reception compared to the wider channels of traditional Wi-Fi.
  • Simplified MAC Layer: The Medium Access Control layer is streamlined for IoT traffic patterns.

Example: A battery-powered door lock using Wi-Fi HaLow might wake up for only a few milliseconds to report its status (locked/unlocked) or when it receives a command to unlock. For the vast majority of the time, it remains in a deep sleep state, allowing its batteries to last for years.

How many devices can connect to a single Wi-Fi HaLow access point?

Explanation: Wi-Fi HaLow is designed to support a significantly larger number of connected devices per access point (AP) compared to traditional Wi-Fi APs. While traditional APs might struggle with more than a few dozen active clients, HaLow APs are designed to handle thousands of connections (specifically, an 802.11ah AP can associate with up to 8,191 devices). This is achieved through features like efficient handling of small data packets, longer beacon intervals, and improved addressing and resource allocation mechanisms.

Example: In a large industrial facility, a single Wi-Fi HaLow access point could connect to thousands of sensors monitoring machinery health, environmental conditions, and asset locations throughout the plant.

How does Wi-Fi HaLow compare to other Low-Power Wide-Area Network (LPWAN) technologies like LoRaWAN, Sigfox, or NB-IoT?

Explanation:

  • Data Rate: HaLow generally offers higher data rates (kbps to Mbps) than LoRaWAN or Sigfox (bps to kbps). NB-IoT falls in between, typically offering tens to hundreds of kbps.
  • Range: LoRaWAN and Sigfox can achieve longer ranges (several kilometers in rural areas) than HaLow (up to ~1 km). NB-IoT’s range is comparable to or slightly better than HaLow, leveraging cellular infrastructure.
  • Power Consumption: All are designed for low power, but specifics vary. LoRaWAN and Sigfox are often champions of ultra-low power for very infrequent, small data.
  • Network Topology & Cost: HaLow uses a star topology similar to traditional Wi-Fi and can be deployed as private networks. LoRaWAN and Sigfox often rely on public or private network operators. NB-IoT uses existing cellular infrastructure, which usually involves carrier subscriptions.
  • IP Support: HaLow has native IP support, simplifying integration. LoRaWAN and Sigfox often require gateways to translate to IP. NB-IoT is IP-based.
  • Bandwidth: HaLow uses wider bandwidths (MHz) than LoRaWAN/Sigfox (kHz), allowing for higher data rates but potentially more power per bit transmitted.

Example: For a smart city needing to collect infrequent, tiny data packets (like a parking spot status) from tens of thousands of sensors spread over many square kilometers, LoRaWAN or Sigfox might be suitable due to extreme range and power efficiency. If the city needs higher data rates for, say, low-resolution image snapshots from security sensors or firmware updates over the air within a 1 km radius per access point, Wi-Fi HaLow or NB-IoT would be more appropriate. HaLow offers the advantage of private network ownership and no recurring carrier fees compared to NB-IoT.

How does Wi-Fi HaLow compare to short-range wireless technologies like Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)?

Explanation:

  • Range: HaLow offers significantly longer range (kilometers) compared to Zigbee, Z-Wave, and BLE (tens to a hundred meters).
  • Data Rate: HaLow’s peak data rates can be higher than those of Zigbee, Z-Wave, and typical BLE applications.
  • Network Topology: Zigbee and Z-Wave often use mesh networking to extend range, while HaLow primarily uses a star topology (though mesh is technically possible). BLE is often point-to-point or broadcast.
  • IP Support: HaLow has native IP support. Zigbee, Z-Wave, and BLE typically require gateways for IP connectivity.
  • Power Consumption: All are designed for low power, but the specific profiles and use cases differ. BLE is very effective for very short bursts and proximity applications.

Example: In a smart home, BLE might be used for communication between your smartphone and a fitness tracker (very short range, low power). Zigbee or Z-Wave might control lights and switches throughout the house using a mesh network. Wi-Fi HaLow could be used to connect outdoor security cameras, gate controllers, or sensors in a detached garage that are too far for Zigbee/Z-Wave/BLE or even traditional Wi-Fi to reliably reach from the main house router.

Is Wi-Fi HaLow meant to replace traditional Wi-Fi or other IoT technologies?

Explanation:

No, Wi-Fi HaLow is not intended to replace traditional Wi-Fi (like Wi-Fi 6/7) or all other IoT technologies. It’s designed to be a complementary technology that fills a specific gap. Traditional Wi-Fi excels at high-speed data transfer over shorter ranges. Other IoT technologies like LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, Zigbee, and BLE each have their own strengths for particular use cases (e.g., extreme range, ultra-low power for tiny data, mesh networking). Wi-Fi HaLow provides a standardized, IP-based solution for medium to long-range IoT applications that require more data throughput than some LPWANs but still need good power efficiency and range.

Example:

You’ll still use your traditional Wi-Fi router for Browse the web on your laptop and streaming movies. Your Bluetooth earbuds will still connect to your phone. However, a new industrial monitoring system might use Wi-Fi HaLow to connect sensors across a factory floor because it offers a better balance of range, throughput for sensor data, and power efficiency than either traditional Wi-Fi or other short-range IoT technologies for that specific application.

What are the primary applications and use cases for Wi-Fi HaLow?

Explanation:

Wi-Fi HaLow is well-suited for a wide range of IoT applications that require a combination of longer range, good penetration, reasonable data rates (for IoT), and power efficiency. Key areas include:

  • Smart Buildings/Homes: Security systems, HVAC control, appliance monitoring, access control over larger properties.
  • Industrial IoT (IIoT): Process monitoring and control, asset tracking, predictive maintenance sensors in factories, warehouses, and logistics.
  • Smart Cities: Smart lighting, waste management, environmental monitoring, smart parking, utility metering.
  • Agriculture: Soil sensors, livestock tracking, irrigation control, drone communication.
  • Retail: Electronic shelf labels, asset tracking in large stores, inventory management.
  • Healthcare: Remote patient monitoring (within a campus or large facility), asset tracking for medical equipment.

Example:

A large retail chain could use Wi-Fi HaLow for its electronic shelf labels across sprawling superstores. The system can update prices on thousands of labels simultaneously, reaching shelves deep within aisles, with the labels running on batteries for several years. This is difficult to achieve reliably and cost-effectively with traditional Wi-Fi or BLE.

Do I need new hardware (routers, devices) to use Wi-Fi HaLow?

Explanation:

Yes, you generally need new hardware. Wi-Fi HaLow operates on different frequencies and uses a different physical layer (PHY) and MAC layer design than traditional Wi-Fi. Therefore, existing Wi-Fi routers and devices (e.g., smartphones, laptops designed for 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi) are not compatible with Wi-Fi HaLow. You will need Wi-Fi HaLow-specific access points (or gateways) and Wi-Fi HaLow-enabled end devices (sensors, actuators, etc.) that contain the appropriate chipsets. Some multi-band chipsets or devices might emerge that support both traditional Wi-Fi and HaLow, but dedicated HaLow hardware is the norm.

Example:

To set up a Wi-Fi HaLow network for your farm sensors, you would need to purchase a Wi-Fi HaLow gateway (which acts like a specialized router) and ensure that the soil moisture sensors, weather station, and livestock trackers you buy are all explicitly “Wi-Fi HaLow certified” or “802.11ah compatible.” Your existing home Wi-Fi router will not be able to communicate with these HaLow devices.

Is Wi-Fi HaLow available globally? Are there regional differences in its deployment or regulations?

Explanation:

Wi-Fi HaLow is designed for global deployment, but the exact sub-1 GHz frequencies it uses are subject to regional regulations. Different countries and regions have allocated different parts of the sub-GHz spectrum for ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) use or license-exempt operation. For example:

  • North America: Typically 902-928 MHz.
  • Europe: Typically 863-868 MHz.
  • China: Around 779-787 MHz.
  • Other regions (e.g., Australia, Japan, Korea): Have their own specific allocations. This means that Wi-Fi HaLow chipsets and devices need to be configurable or specifically designed for the regulatory domain in which they will operate. The Wi-Fi Alliance certification program helps ensure compliance and interoperability within these regional parameters.

Example:

A company manufacturing Wi-Fi HaLow-enabled environmental sensors would need to produce different versions of their product (or have firmware adaptable) for the US market (using the 902-928 MHz band) versus the European market (using the 863-868 MHz band) to comply with local radio regulations.

How is security handled in Wi-Fi HaLow? Does it support modern Wi-Fi security protocols like WPA3?

Explanation:

Security is a critical aspect of Wi-Fi HaLow, just as it is for any Wi-Fi technology. Wi-Fi HaLow leverages the robust security features established in the IEEE 802.11 standards. It supports the latest generation of Wi-Fi security, including WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3). WPA3 offers stronger encryption, protection against brute-force attacks, and enhanced authentication mechanisms, which are essential for securing IoT devices that might be deployed in vulnerable locations or handle sensitive data.

Example:

A Wi-Fi HaLow-enabled security camera installed outdoors will use WPA3 encryption to secure the video feed and control commands transmitted to and from the network. This prevents unauthorized viewing of the footage or malicious attempts to disable the camera, providing a similar level of security to what you’d expect from a modern WPA3-secured traditional Wi-Fi network.

How well does the Wi-Fi HaLow signal penetrate through walls and other obstacles?

Explanation:

Wi-Fi HaLow signals, operating in the sub-1 GHz band, have significantly better penetration capabilities through common building materials (like walls, concrete, and foliage) compared to higher-frequency signals from traditional Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). This is a fundamental property of lower-frequency radio waves – they experience less attenuation (signal loss) when passing through dense objects. This makes HaLow particularly suitable for applications requiring coverage within complex indoor environments or through moderate outdoor obstructions.

Example:

If you need to connect a sensor in a utility closet deep inside a large commercial building with multiple concrete walls, a traditional Wi-Fi signal might be completely blocked. A Wi-Fi HaLow signal has a much higher probability of successfully penetrating those walls and establishing a reliable connection with an access point located further away.

What is the current state of Wi-Fi HaLow adoption and market availability of products?

Explanation:

As of early 2025, Wi-Fi HaLow adoption is steadily growing, though it’s still in an earlier phase compared to mature technologies like traditional Wi-Fi or BLE. Chipset availability from various silicon vendors has increased, leading to a growing ecosystem of modules, development kits, access points, and end devices. It’s gaining traction in specific IoT verticals like industrial automation, smart agriculture, logistics, and smart building solutions where its unique benefits are most apparent. While not yet as ubiquitous as traditional Wi-Fi, the market is expanding, and more products are becoming commercially available.

Example:

You can now find several companies offering Wi-Fi HaLow gateways and modules for developers and system integrators. There are also initial deployments in areas like industrial sensor networks for machinery monitoring or in smart agriculture for connecting remote environmental sensors. You might not yet find consumer-grade HaLow routers in every electronics store, but the building blocks and specialized solutions are increasingly present.

What are the potential costs associated with implementing a Wi-Fi HaLow network?

Explanation:

The costs can be broken down into several components:

  • Hardware Costs: This includes Wi-Fi HaLow access points/gateways and the end devices (sensors, actuators). Initially, as with any newer technology, the per-unit cost of HaLow chipsets and devices might be higher than for very high-volume traditional Wi-Fi or BLE components, but this is expected to decrease with wider adoption.
  • Deployment Costs: This involves installation, configuration, and potentially site surveys, especially for larger or more complex deployments.
  • Network Management: While HaLow can simplify some aspects due to its range, managing a large IoT network still requires software and potentially expertise.
  • Integration Costs: Connecting the HaLow network and its data into existing enterprise systems or cloud platforms. Overall, for applications where HaLow’s range and penetration reduce the number of access points needed compared to traditional Wi-Fi, or where it eliminates the need for cellular subscriptions (unlike NB-IoT for some use cases), it can offer a lower total cost of ownership despite potentially higher initial hardware costs for individual components.

Example:

A warehouse looking to track 5,000 assets might find that using Wi-Fi HaLow requires only 5 gateways due to its range and penetration, compared to potentially 30 traditional Wi-Fi APs or a costly mesh network. While each HaLow gateway and tag might be more expensive initially, the overall infrastructure and installation cost could be lower, and there would be no ongoing cellular data fees.

Can Wi-Fi HaLow coexist with other wireless technologies operating in nearby frequencies without interference?

Explanation:

Yes, Wi-Fi HaLow is designed with coexistence in mind, but like any wireless technology, it’s not immune to interference if nearby bands are heavily used by powerful transmitters. The sub-1 GHz bands are used by various services, including other LPWANs, amateur radio, and some industrial equipment. Wi-Fi HaLow incorporates features from the IEEE 802.11 standard, such as “listen before talk” (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance – CSMA/CA), adaptive channel selection, and robust modulation techniques to mitigate interference and share the spectrum efficiently. The specific levels of interference and coexistence performance will depend on the local RF environment and the density of other nearby transmitters.

Example:

If a factory is already using a proprietary wireless sensor network in the 915 MHz band, deploying a new Wi-Fi HaLow system in the same 902-928 MHz band will require careful planning. The HaLow system’s ability to sense channel activity and select less congested channels will help, but an RF site survey would be advisable to ensure both systems can operate effectively without degrading each other’s performance.

What are the limitations or potential downsides of using Wi-Fi HaLow?

Explanation:

While offering significant advantages, Wi-Fi HaLow also has limitations:

  • Lower Data Rates: Compared to traditional Wi-Fi, its data throughput is significantly lower, making it unsuitable for bandwidth-intensive applications like video streaming or large file transfers.
  • Ecosystem Maturity: While growing, the ecosystem of HaLow devices and readily available consumer products is still less mature than for technologies like traditional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
  • Regional Frequency Variations: The need for region-specific hardware or configurations due to different sub-GHz band allocations can add complexity for global product rollouts.
  • Potential for Interference: Although designed for coexistence, the sub-GHz bands are used by other services, and localized interference can still be a concern in some environments.
  • Not a Replacement for All IoT: It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution; technologies like LoRaWAN might be better for extreme range with tiny data, or BLE for very low power, short-range applications.

Example:

A company wants to deploy very high-resolution video surveillance cameras across a large campus. While Wi-Fi HaLow could provide the range, its data rate limitations (tens of Mbps at best) would likely be insufficient for streaming multiple HD or 4K video feeds. In this case, traditional Wi-Fi with strategically placed access points, or even wired Ethernet or fiber, would be a more appropriate choice for the cameras, even if HaLow is used for other, lower-bandwidth sensor data on the same campus.

Read full release
August 19, 2025
[Blog]

Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 8: Key Features, Differences and What They Mean for Product Development

Wi-Fi 7 is reshaping how devices communicate, and Wi-Fi 8, with even more advanced capabilities, is on the horizon. Businesses building connected devices need to understand how next-generation Wi-Fi impacts design decisions, user expectations and product viability.

Whether you’re developing smart home devices, industrial systems or enterprise-grade solutions, staying ahead of these evolving standards helps you deliver reliable and future-ready products.

Discover the key feature differences between Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 8, use cases and what this all means for product development.

What Is Wi-Fi 7?

Wi-Fi 7, or standard IEEE 802.11be, is the latest generation of wireless technology with extended capabilities of Wi-Fi 6 and 6E. The standard offers precise coordination, better use of spectrum and enhanced flexibility. Wi-Fi 7 delivers speeds of up to 46 Gbps.

The technology is commercially available in chipsets, routers, access points and adapters. Wi-Fi 7 maintains backward compatibility with Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, making it easier to transition without overhauling existing infrastructure.

Key Features of Wi-Fi 7

Wi-Fi 7 redefines wireless connectivity with robust capabilities that boost efficiency. The features of Wi-Fi 7 include:

320 MHz Channel

Wi-Fi 7 has a channel bandwidth of 320 megahertz (MHz). This additional bandwidth is primarily available in the 6 GHz spectrum and is beneficial in large data load settings, where faster data transfers reduce latency and streamline user experiences.

4096 QAM

Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) determines how much data can be encoded into a signal. Wi-Fi 7 moves from 1024 QAM of Wi-Fi 6 to 4096 QAM, meaning more bits are transmitted per signal burst. For product developers, this means less time spent on data handoffs, which improves responsiveness and frees up network resources.

Multi-Link Operation 

Multi-link operation (MLO) allows devices to operate across the 2.4 GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz bands simultaneously or dynamically. This flexibility reduces congestion, balances traffic and adds redundancy for stable connections.

MLO modes include:

  • Multi-link single radio: Allows a user to alternate bands but receive only one frequency spectrum at a time.
  • Multi-link multi-radio: Allows for simultaneous and non-simultaneous transmission using two or more radios to operate across bands.
  • Enhanced multi-link single radio: Allows transmission on only one band at a time but adds more intelligence to how the device switches between frequency ranges.

Multiple Resource Units 

Wi-Fi 7 introduces flexible ways to allocate spectrum through multiple resource units (MRUs). These resource units allow a single device to pull together fragmented portions of the channel to form a usable transmission path. For environments with mixed traffic or partial interference, MRUs help maintain efficient operation and minimize wasted spectrum.

Preamble Puncturing

Preamble puncturing enables devices and clients to avoid portions of a channel experiencing interference while still using the rest of the bandwidth. This technique increases bandwidth availability in spectrum-dense areas. For developers building products for offices or industrial zones, this feature better supports multiple devices on the same network.

Restricted Target Wake Time

Wi-Fi 7 enhances the target wake time feature in Wi-Fi 6. With restricted target wake time (R-TWT), devices schedule times to wake and communicate, reducing overlap and saving energy. This has direct implications for battery-powered smart devices, where predictable, energy-efficient operation is essential.

Improved Power Efficiency and Low Latency

Improved Power Efficiency and Low Latency

With better control over how and when devices communicate, Wi-Fi 7 improves energy use. Lower latency allows time-sensitive applications to respond more quickly, which translates to smoother operation and more reliable communication for industrial automation and health care products.

Enhanced MU-MIMO and OFDMA

Wi-Fi 7 extends the multiple-user (MU) multiple input multiple output (MIMO) — MU-MIMO — and orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) techniques from Wi-Fi 6. These features allow more devices to transmit data simultaneously, improving overall network efficiency. It’s useful in high-density environments like offices and stadiums.

What Is Wi-Fi 8?

Wi-Fi 8 technology, known as IEEE 802.11bn, is currently in development. Compatible devices are expected to launch in early 2028, and early drafts suggest a shift toward reliability, coordination and resource efficiency.

The standard is being designed for future-forward use cases, such as autonomous systems, immersive computing and dense Internet of Things (IoT) environments. IEEE 802.11bn will maintain backward compatibility with Wi-Fi 7, 6 and 6E, and is anticipated to exceed 46 Gbps.

Key Features of Wi-Fi 8

While still in early development, Wi-Fi 8 will expand wireless capabilities. Here are some features that support next-gen applications.

Ultra-High Reliability

Wi-Fi 8 aims to reduce jitter and packet loss by improving scheduling, redundancy and error correction. This shift prioritizes consistency over peak throughput and supports applications where dropped signals impact performance or safety.

Multiple Access Point Coordination

The standard aims to create a more seamless experience for devices moving across spaces, improve load balancing and help avoid signal conflicts. For businesses managing high-density deployments, wireless networks may behave like well-managed wired ones.

Advanced Power Management

Wi-Fi 8 refines device wake cycles and energy scheduling to extend battery life further in ultra-low-power devices. These refinements support long-lifespan IoT devices in industrial and outdoor settings where frequent battery replacement isn’t practical.

Enhanced Spectrum Utilization

IEEE 802.11bn will introduce smarter spectrum management through predictive traffic scheduling and adaptive channel use. This reduces interference and increases network performance as the number of connected devices increases. For developers, this means more-reliable performance in real-world conditions.

Integrated mmWave Support

Millimeter wave (mmWave) communication has already been employed in 5G for high-density urban environments and fixed wireless access solutions to provide high-speed, low-latency communication. Millimeter wave will become more native in Wi-Fi 8 and offer fast, short-range communication ideal for virtual reality (VR) headsets, docking stations and local data transfer between machines. Built-in mmWave support allows product designers to target these use cases without relying on separate radio systems.

Read full release
August 19, 2025
[Blog]

Wi-Fi 7 MRU OFDMA: Turning Rush Hour into Easy Street for Wireless Traffic

Even in demanding, high-density environments, Wi-Fi 7 delivers speed, efficiency, and rock-solid reliability. At the crux of this breakthrough in wireless connectivity is the Multiple Resource Unit (MRU) feature and the way that Wi-Fi 7 integrates MRU to augment the Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) framework.

Originally introduced in Wi-Fi 6, OFDMA enables dynamic allocation and independent modulation of subcarriers across frequency resources, facilitating concurrent transmissions to multiple client devices. In this blog, we illustrate how MRU advances this methodology by implementing refined interference suppression mechanisms and optimizing multi-user scheduling.

Chart with Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 7 RU support comparison
Figure 1: Wi-Fi 6 vs. Wi-Fi 7 RU support comparison

How does Multiple Resource Unit (MRU) impact efficiency in wireless connectivity?

By selectively excising interfered spectral segments, MRU ensures that transmissions are confined to interference-free subchannels, thereby maximizing effective throughput and link reliability in congested radio frequency (RF) environments. One way to visualize this is to imagine a busy freeway where each vehicle represents a data packet. OFDMA, as introduced in Wi-Fi 6, is like redesigning the highway with multiple lanes that allow many cars to travel side by side, each heading to its own destination. Now, with MRU in Wi-Fi 7, it’s as if the highway can intelligently guide vehicles into express lanes to further reduce congestion and ensure a smooth journey for all—even in heavy traffic.

This optimization is accomplished through punctured resource units (RUs), which are structured aggregations of 78.125 kHz-wide subcarriers. These individual RUs are assigned to different stations, allowing wireless access points to serve each of them simultaneously during uplink and downlink transmissions. MRU is in effect when many RUs are assigned to a single user. This allows for the aggregation of RUs of varying sizes to better match data transmission needs.

Chart with Sample RU allocations per station in Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7
Figure 2: Sample RU allocations per station in Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7

MRU configurations are classified into small (< 242) and large (> 242). Small MRU configurations include 52+26-tone and 106+26-tone groupings, wherein “tone” denotes the subcarrier or small frequency segment into which the available spectrum is divided. Large MRU configurations comprise combinations such as 484+242-tone, 996+484-tone, 996+484+242-tone, 2×996+484-tone, 3×996-tone, and 2×996+484-tone.

This results in more efficient user allocation and bandwidth utilization. For instance, in 11ax with a 20 MHz channel (totaling 242 tones), when two clients each use 106 tones, the total utilization is (106×2)/242 = ~88%. In contrast with Wi-Fi 7, if one client is assigned RU106 and another is allocated MRU106+26, the total utilization increases to (106×2+26)/242 = ~98%.

Chart with allowed 106+26-tone MRUs in an OFDMA 20 MHz PPDU
Figure 3: Allowed 106+26-tone MRUs in an OFDMA 20 MHz PPDU

Evaluating Wi-Fi 7’s MRU feature

To conduct this evaluation, we used a Cisco Wireless 9178I Access Point connected to a Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) running firmware version 17.15.2. The 9800 Series provides centralized control and greater visibility over traffic segmentation, user access, and security. The test environment consists of 4x Wi-Fi 7 and 4x Wi-Fi 5 stations (STAs). This diverse mix allows us to assess how different wireless standards handle congestion and latency.

Chart with system overview and test infrastructure
Figure 4: System overview and test infrastructure

To put MRU to the test, we simulate a high-traffic scenario on each bandwidth.

We generate user datagram protocol (UDP) full buffer traffic, creating network congestion by continuously pushing data to the access point on Wi-Fi 5 STAs. This replicates a real-world environment where multiple devices compete for bandwidth, allowing us to analyze the impact of MRU on latency. We then generate 750 Kbps real-time transport protocol (RTP) downlink and uplink traffic streams, mimicking real-time applications like voice and video streaming.

Measuring latency: OFDMA vs. OFDMA+MRU performance

To quantify performance improvements, we measure latency in milliseconds (ms) across three different configurations or combinations of channel bandwidth:

  • Non-OFDMA mode: Traditional Wi-Fi scheduling without frequency partitioning
  • Wi-Fi 6 OFDMA: Optimizes resource allocation
  • Wi-Fi 7 OFDMA+MRU: Allows flexible frequency allocation
Chart with downlink latency (ms) for different bandwidths
Figure 5: Downlink latency (ms) for different bandwidths

Even with just four MRU-capable STAs, we consistently observe lower latency in both downlink and uplink directions. The improvements reach approximately 55% in downlink and 48% in uplink when using a 320 MHz channel.

Figure 6: Uplink latency (ms) for different bandwidths

Enhancing connectivity and eliminating blind spots with MRU

MRU revolutionizes next-generation wireless connectivity by boosting efficiency, increasing speed, and ensuring enhanced reliability—even in high-density environments such as offices, airports, and stadiums, as well as IoT networks with cameras and sensors. By complementing 5G, it strengthens indoor wireless connectivity where 5G signals may be weaker. Additionally, MRU unlocks seamless experiences for applications requiring ultra-low latency, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming.

All Cisco Wi-Fi 7 access points, including CW9178I and CW9176I, along with Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers, fully support multi-RU functionality starting with the IOS XE 17.15.2 release—and provide centralized control for greater visibility, faster troubleshooting, and ease of management.

Read full release
August 19, 2025
[Press Release]

DNSFilter Research Finds Bad Actors Using Fake CAPTCHAs for Malware Attempts

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Aug. 14, 2025 – DNSFilter released new research today that showcases how bad actors are taking advantage of fake CAPTCHA pages to attempt to scam unsuspecting individuals.

One of DNSFilter’s managed service provider (MSP) customers discovered what first appeared to be an ordinary CAPTCHA prompt, but it turned out to be an attempt to deliver fileless malware known as Lumma Stealer. DNSFilter’s content filtering was able to stop it in its tracks, but researchers took a deeper look at the attempt to glean more detail.

Researchers discovered that:

  • This particular fake CAPTCHA was interacted with 23 times on the DNSFilter network over a three-day period.

  • 17% of people who encountered the fake CAPTCHA completed the steps on the screen to copy and paste it, resulting in an attempted malware payload delivery.

  • The fake CAPTCHA was first observed on a Greek banking site. Two other domains were associated with the malicious CAPTCHA: a brand-new Cloudflare Pages site (Human-verify-7u.pages.dev) that loads with an error message after clicking “I’m not a robot,” and Recaptcha-manual.shop, which loads outside of the browser after following the prompted commands.

When users encountered the fake CAPTCHAs, this is the prompt that popped up.

As bad actors continue to evolve their tactics, users need to remember that if something seems fishy, they shouldn’t click it. However, not all threats are obvious. Organizations need to ensure they’re providing solid cyber hygiene training for employees regularly, but they also need to have a strong strategy in place for blocking suspicious domains and using content filtering to help avoid potential malware and phishing attempts.

Read more about how DNSFilter helped an MSP stop fake CAPTCHAs from luring their customers into inadvertent security scams in this case study.

Will Strafach, Senior Director, Security Intelligence & Solutions, DNSFilter, said: “It’s important for users to think and look carefully before they click on anything or take an action on an untrusted site, but human error is inevitable. That’s why modern enterprises need protective DNS. DNSFilter identifies emergent and newly malicious sites, providing cybersecurity teams with detailed visibility and tighter control of their network, no matter where their end users happen to be.”

About the company:

DNSFilter is a cybersecurity company that protects every click, leveraging AI-driven content filtering and threat protection to block threats 10 days earlier than competitors. DNSFilter’s solution secures workers anywhere they are, helping to boost productivity, minimize compliance risk, and protect corporate brands on public Wi-Fi networks. Unlike traditional filtering solutions, DNSFilter deploys in minutes instead of days and is trusted by more than 43,000 organizations worldwide. Learn more about how DNSFilter is the first and last line of defense for corporate and hybrid networks at dnsfilter.com.

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