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Austin, TX – October 21, 2021 – Wi-Fi CERTIFIED QoS Management™ is a certification program from Wi-Fi Alliance^®that allows more granular Quality of Service (QoS) management in home, public, and enterprise environments to further improve the user experience with latency-sensitive, real-time applications, and to help ensure consistent QoS treatment across Wi-Fi^®and 5G networks. Standardized mechanisms in Wi-Fi QoS Management^™ allow for differentiated traffic prioritization between Wi-Fi and cellular networks to deliver an enhanced user experience with applications requiring low latency and low jitter. Wi-Fi QoS Management enhances voice-over-IP, videoconferencing, interactive gaming, X Reality (XR), Internet of Things (IoT) and healthcare monitoring.

“Wi-Fi has a powerful role today in delivering essential use cases in home and enterprise environments,” said Kevin Robinson, SVP of Marketing, Wi-Fi Alliance. “There is unprecedented growth of real-time, bidirectional communication applications over Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi QoS Management delivers deterministic connectivity that allows enterprises, service providers, and users to enjoy latency-sensitive applications even in dense or challenging environments. Additionally, as more 5G networks are deployed, Wi-Fi QoS Management will help ensure consistent traffic management across Wi-Fi and cellular networks.”

Wi-Fi QoS Management includes four core features including:

Stream Classification Service (SCS): enables classification and Wi-Fi QoS treatment of specific IP flows, including flows to and from 5G core networks, allowing sensitive traffic such as gaming, voice, and video to be prioritized over bulk data traffic.
Mirrored Stream Classification Service (MSCS): enables a client device to request that the access point apply specific QoS treatment of downlink IP data flows using QoS mirroring.
Differentiated Service Code Point (DSCP) mapping: aligns QoS treatment across Wi-Fi and wired networks help enable end-to-end consistency and also allow network managers to configure specific QoS policies.
Differentiated Service Code Point (DSCP) Policy: enables dynamic configuration of clients with DSCP policies for specific uplink IP traffic flows, allowing them to be marked with different DSCP values and further improving the experience with applications requiring low latency such as XR.

Hybrid workforces are becoming increasingly more common and have given renewed importance to collaboration technologies which rely on high quality Wi-Fi to deliver the best user experience with tools including video conferencing or voice-over-IP. Additionally, XR technologies are poised to bridge gaps between real and virtual worlds by improving education, onboarding, healthcare, and other advanced use cases with richer experiences. Consistent QoS treatment policies are necessary to meet the demands of these advanced use cases – most of which require data traffic to traverse multiple networks – including Wi-Fi, wired, and cellular. Wi-Fi QoS Management provides mechanisms that allow client applications to request QoS treatment, and for network managers to implement QoS policies. These mechanisms allow user devices and access points to perform differentiated prioritization, depending on the type of traffic. The result is robust service delivery and higher quality Wi-Fi, including better experiences with real-time and immersive applications, and reduced latency and jitter when online gaming or accessing interactive cloud and edge services.

For more information, please visit our website and download our technology overview and/or highlights sheet.

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 65,000 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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October 21, 2021

[Resources]

Key Considerations for Wi-Fi 6E Testing

Learn how to validate 802.11 WLAN AP and device performance, ensure network security, maximize service coverage.

Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing Access (OFDMA) introduced in Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) is one of the most important features in this generation of Wi-Fi technology. However, testing Wi-Fi 6E OFDMA can be a challenging task due to the complex nature of features defined in 802.11ax standard.This white paper provides an overview of 802.11ax, OFDMA triggering mechanisms, info exchange protocol, and MU PPDU transmission. It also offers an in-depth look at the essentials for OFDMA testing with a special focus on OFDMA operational scenarios. The latest industry-leading solutions will be shared for testing Wi-Fi 6E enhancements in a controlled environment and creating realistic, meaningful traffic models for OFDMA use cases.

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October 19, 2021

[Press Release]

Wi-Fi Alliance® accelerates Wi-Fi 6E development with Automated Frequency Coordination

Austin, Texas and Washington, D.C. – October 19, 2021 – Wi-Fi Alliance^® continues to advance development of the Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) system that maximizes spectrum access in the 6 GHz frequency band. Wi-Fi Alliance is announcing the release of an additional element necessary for AFC system implementation: the AFC System Compliance Test Plan. Wi-Fi Alliance development efforts on this innovative AFC system aim to ensure worldwide adoption, interoperability, security, and reliability expected of Wi-Fi^®.

Wi-Fi 6E leverages the 6 GHz band to unleash capacity, speed, and reduced latency benefits. The AFC system, already adopted into 6 GHz regulatory framework in Canada and U.S., is also being considered by regulators in other countries. Development of this AFC system framework demonstrates the commitment by Wi-Fi Alliance to maximizing 6 GHz spectrum opportunity and accelerating delivery of Wi-Fi 6E benefits.

AFC documents now available from Wi-Fi Alliance include:

AFC System Compliance Test Plan: allows AFC system operators to ensure that AFC systems are receiving information from AFC Devices, checking spectrum and location against NRA database, and communicating back to AFC Devices
AFC System Reference Model: describes the overall end-to-end AFC system architecture, covering the topology and related elements that make up the entire system
AFC Device Compliance Test Plan: describes a compliance test program for communication of an AFC device under test (DUT) to the AFC system, including the format of information it must report to the AFC system
AFC System to AFC Device Interface Specification: provides interface specifications for communication between an AFC system and an AFC device

For more information on countries enabling Wi-Fi 6E, please visit: https://www.wi-fi.org/countries-enabling-wi-fi-6e. To download the full package of Wi-Fi Alliance AFC documents, please visit: https://www.wi-fi.org/file/afc-specification-and-test-plans.

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 65,000 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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October 18, 2021

[Press Release]

Broadband Service Providers Can Chart a Path To Deliver Community Coverage With Revenue EDGE Wi-Fi On the Go From Calix

Revenue EDGE Wi-Fi On the Go will deliver seamless Wi-Fi access, single sign-on, and secure roaming throughout neighborhoods and public spaces, enabling BSPs to differentiate their brand, grow their contribution to their community and create new revenue streams.

SAN JOSE, CA – October 18, 2021 – Building on a decade of investment in the Intelligent Access EDGE and Revenue EDGE platforms to deliver an unrivalled pace of broadband service provider innovation, Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) announced Revenue EDGE Wi-Fi On the Go (Wi-Fi On the Go) at its ConneXions conference in Las Vegas. Wi-Fi On the Go will enable broadband service providers (BSPs) to grow their value to their communities and drive revenue by meeting subscriber demand for solutions that extend beyond the home. Through the CommandIQ® mobile app, subscribers will be able to use the new MyCommunityIQ Revenue EDGE Suite to access secure Wi-Fi roaming—with single sign-on—throughout entire neighborhoods. The new Wi-Fi On the Go capabilities will play a key role in building a broader ecosystem by connecting subscribers across neighborhoods, towns, and cities.

Once again, Calix is embracing industry standards to deliver Wi-Fi On the Go. The Wi-Fi Alliance Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Passpoint® protocol will be a core element of the solution that BSPs will leverage to deliver multiple benefits for subscribers, first responders, and public institutions including:

For subscribers: Wi-Fi On the Go will enable mobile-like services—such as Wi-Fi calling and mobile data offload—without the need for a mobile network and the monthly bandwidth limitations often associated with such plans. Through CommunityIQ, subscribers will be able to simply sign on once and securely roam across participating access points.
For first responders: Wi-Fi On the Go will support critical communications, as a BSP will now be able to offer high-speed and secure Wi-Fi Alliance WPA3™ network access over a single, common network that extends throughout the communities first responders serve. Safety and medical personnel on the road and in proximity to powerful Wi-Fi 6 GigaSpire® BLAST systems can leverage Wi-Fi On the Go to shift from slow, cellular data plans to high-speed Wi-Fi.
For public institutions: Wi-Fi On the Go will enable BSPs to offer E-rate services for eligible schools and libraries so they can obtain affordable internet access under the FCC E-Rate program—and keep pace with evolving models for virtual learning.

“We are very excited about Wi-Fi On the Go and are looking forward to the positive impact it will have on our communities,” said Brad Moline, president and chief executive officer of ALLO Communications. “The new Revenue EDGE offering builds on our existing investment in Calix platforms and will play a vital role in optimizing the learning experience, eliminating the digital divide, and supporting public safety service by delivering connectivity over an available network that is fast, reliable and secure. And, best of all, the Revenue EDGE will help to power ALLO’s Gigabit society.”

This latest Revenue EDGE announcement demonstrates the Calix commitment to extend innovation to new use cases that will allow BSPs to continually grow their value.

“With the new Revenue EDGE Wi-Fi On the Go solution, broadband service providers can be sure their subscribers only need to sign in once to access the same ultimate Wi-Fi experience they enjoy at home. It represents an exciting first step that could open up longer term opportunities for an alliance of Calix Customers to extend the ultimate subscriber experiences among communities,” said Shane Eleniak, executive vice president of products for Calix. “Built around Wi-Fi Alliance Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Passpoint technology, MyCommunityIQ delivers seamless network access and roaming between GigaSpire BLAST hotspots. It underscores our active and continued commitment to building first-class solutions with industry standards and protocols such as Wi-Fi Alliance Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Data Elements™ and Wi-Fi Alliance Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Passpoint to enable BSPs to simplify their business, excite subscribers, and grow value.”

Register for the ConneXions 2021 Learning Experience, which takes place virtually November 16-18 at Calix.com to learn more about Revenue EDGE Wi-Fi On the Go for BSPs.

About Calix
Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) – Calix cloud and software platforms enable service providers of all types and sizes to innovate and transform. Our customers utilize the real-time data and insights from Calix platforms to simplify their businesses and deliver experiences that excite their subscribers. The resulting growth in subscriber acquisition, loyalty, and revenue creates more value for their businesses and communities. This is the Calix mission; to enable broadband service providers of all sizes to simplify, excite, and grow.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements that are based upon management’s current expectations and are inherently uncertain. Forward-looking statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this release, and we assume no obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking statement to reflect any event or circumstance after the date of this release, except as required by law. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from current expectations based on risks and uncertainties affecting Calix’s business. The reader is cautioned not to rely on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Additional information on potential factors that could affect Calix’s results and other risks and uncertainties are detailed in its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov.

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October 18, 2021

[Press Release]

Calix Raises the Bar Again by Announcing The World’s First Carrier-Class Wi-Fi 6E GigaSpire BLAST Systems, Including Power Over Ethernet, Mesh, and Temperature-Hardened Systems

Revolutionary new Revenue EDGE systems will enable broadband service providers to excite their subscribers with a simple upgrade to any GigaSpire Wi-Fi experience, delivering unmatched performance and breakthrough flexibility to address the most demanding use cases and extreme environments for both residential and small business subscribers

SAN JOSE, CA – October 18, 2021 – Building on a decade of investment in the Intelligent Access EDGE and Revenue EDGE platforms to deliver an unrivalled pace of broadband innovation, (NYSE: CALX) announced new carrier-class Wi-Fi 6E systems, including a hardened system that can withstand even severe outdoor conditions. These new systems mark a major milestone for Calix, its Revenue EDGE platform, and its customers. By incorporating cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6E technology into the GigaSpire® family, Calix is enabling broadband service providers (BSPs) to take full advantage of the newly available 6 GHz band. That means higher throughput and lower latency, less interference, and better performance in dense environments. It also offers increased network efficiency and robust support for the next generation of bandwidth-intensive consumer and business applications. Powered by the Calix Experience Innovation Platform, these new Wi-Fi 6E systems can be leveraged for new deployments or seamlessly added to existing GigaSpire deployments to instantly upgrade that experience to address an ever-expanding set of subscriber use cases—including outdoor use. These new systems will extend the value of the Revenue EDGE platform so BSPs can simplify operations, excite subscribers, and grow the value of their business.

The new GigaSpire BLAST Wi-Fi 6E systems are a foundational component of the Revenue EDGE solution, which includes Calix Support Cloud, Calix Marketing Cloud, the CommandIQ® mobile app, and Revenue EDGE Suites. They enable BSPs to deliver the interactive bandwidth-intensive applications and services subscribers want. Every system in the GigaSpire BLAST portfolio delivers carrier-class reliability and performance that ensures BSPs can provide their subscribers with an exceptional managed experience. These systems will be included in the expanded portfolio.

GigaSpire BLAST u6e premises systems are tri-band (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) premises systems that are designed to maximize the power of the newly available 6GHz band. The GigaSpire BLAST u6e can also operate as a mesh satellite. To ensure optimal placement and coverage, they can be wall mounted, ceiling mounted, and powered either traditionally or with an Ethernet cable. These systems offer BSPs the broadest set of options for residential and small business use cases that require ultimate performance and deployment flexibility.

GigaSpire BLAST u6me is a tri-band mesh satellite. Like other Calix mesh systems (e.g., the GigaSpire BLAST u4m), it can be used to extend coverage in larger premises and premises that feature signal-blocking construction materials. Unlike existing Calix mesh systems, however, the GigaSpire BLAST u6me provides dedicated connectivity to new Wi-Fi 6E-compatible devices. This enables BSPs to quickly and cost-effectively enable their subscribers to adopt cutting-edge technology and the latest and greatest devices without the requirement to replace existing Wi-Fi 6 systems.
GigaSpire BLAST u6he is an innovative tri-band system and mesh satellite that is hardened to withstand outdoor conditions including rain, snow, sleet, and temperatures of –4° Fahrenheit (–20° Celsius). Like the GigaSpire BLAST u6e, this system leverages the 6GHz spectrum to open up a new world of use cases as BSPs can bring high-bandwidth services outdoors to the barn, patio, pool, restaurant patio, campground and more. This also makes the BLAST u6he an integral part of the new Revenue EDGE Small Business Solution.
GigaSpire BLAST u8xe is a tri-band Wi-Fi 6E system that can operate as a gateway or a mesh satellite. Like the GigaSpire BLAST u6x, this new system will leverage an SFP module to provide BSPs with a single system deployment model for the subscriber premises that support everything from GPON, 10 Gig E (copper), XGS PON, and 10 Gig E (Active Ethernet).

“We’re excited to partner with Calix to take the next big step in delivering amazing Wi-Fi experiences to our residential and small business subscribers. The GigaSpire BLAST systems are enabling us to deploy and deliver the new services that our customers are adopting every day,” said Troy Mack, network operations manager at West Carolina Tel. “Wi-Fi 6E will unlock tremendous possibilities. The fact that we can simply add these new systems to our existing Revenue EDGE portfolio and existing deployments without missing a beat will ensure that we keep ahead of the competition. The fact that we can also offer our subscribers a Wi-Fi system that can withstand outdoor conditions is a huge step forward. This will allow us to deliver high-bandwidth services to every area of our customers’ properties, enabling Wi-Fi to the barn, backyard patio, and small businesses that require more powerful systems.”

The Experience Innovation Platform, which powers all GigaSpire BLAST systems, enables BSPs to adopt and deploy new systems and services with unprecedented speed and efficiency. GigaSpire BLAST systems can be incorporated into a BSP’s operating model in mere days rather than weeks or months. With the accelerating investment in broadband, driven by U.S. federal and state-level funding as well as private investment, the GigaSpire BLAST family enables critical speed-to-market and flexibility.

“The GigaSpire BLAST portfolio offers the broadest range of systems in the market to enable broadband service providers to succeed,” said Shane Eleniak, executive vice president of products for Calix. “We invest in innovation that helps them grow their brand and build deep, lasting relationships with subscribers. We were the first technology provider in the market with Wi-Fi 6 systems designed exclusively for service providers, and with the announcement of our Wi-Fi 6E and hardened capabilities, we will give our customers the agility and flexibility needed to outpace any market competitor—even the consumer giants. These GigaSpire BLAST systems will enable BSPs of any type and size to be first in their market and easily meet the needs of today’s subscribers.”

To learn more, download the white paper, “Expanding Wi-Fi into the 6 GHz Spectrum,” and register for the ConneXions 2021 Learning Experience, which takes place virtually November 16-18 at Calix.com.

About Calix
Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) – Calix cloud and software platforms enable service providers of all types and sizes to innovate and transform. Our customers utilize the real-time data and insights from Calix platforms to simplify their businesses and deliver experiences that excite their subscribers. The resulting growth in subscriber acquisition, loyalty, and revenue creates more value for their businesses and communities. This is the Calix mission; to enable broadband service providers of all sizes to simplify, excite, and grow.

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October 14, 2021

[Blog]

Resident satisfaction and senior living technology

As the Baby Boomer generation ages, senior living facilities must improve their technology systems to accommodate changing resident needs. The most technologically savvy group of seniors, Baby Boomers are likely to adopt technology that advances their lifestyle and improves their level of care. Accessibility, connectivity, and communication are all modern-day conveniences seniors expect today.

Comfortable Accessibility
One of the greatest innovations is the IoT, the connected home. With customizable technology solutions such as smart lighting, window treatments, and lock/access controls, seniors can relax and change their environment with ease. Empower seniors with remote door locks, eliminating any unnecessary movement but giving them privacy and comfortability in their own space. World Cinema’s ImpruviX NetworX brings peace of mind to seniors and their families through simple solutions that keep their loved ones’ (and their data) safe and secure. Residents can also connect to their space through Amazon Alexa using their voice to request changes to their room. Systems like voice-controlled searching enhance senior technology experiences.

Community Involvement
Recent studies indicate the importance of community involvement on senior living happiness and mental health. With WorldVue, you can alert guests when an event is approaching, and let them know the details through their screen. Digitize resident information through your own in-house channel and inform residents when they have appointments or upcoming visits. Keep residents in the loop by displaying your location amenities through text, photos, and looping videos played on each in-room television screen. WorldVue also provides a live stream option to keep your residents connected from inside their rooms. This feature enables mobility-impaired guests to interact and engage with their environment, boosting levels of happiness and comfortability. Communication is increasingly important and staying connected with your residents ensures they are comfortable, safe, and empowered to age gracefully in your facility.

Enhanced Communication
Finally, the World Cinema Wi-Fi platform ensures senior living residents are constantly connected with friends and family. Reduce feelings of isolation by simplifying their internet and cellular service, empowering residents to use their devices for video conferencing, social media networking, and long-distance phone calls. With OpticalHome, seniors can move in and plug in, without hassling with local internet providers. Additionally, erase the stigma associated with Wi-Fi connectivity by creating a seamless InstaOn™ experience. This system allows residents to move in, plug in, and start streaming their favorite shows, connecting devices with ease.

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October 13, 2021

[Press Release]

LitePoint and Microchip Collaborate to Simplify Manufacturing Test of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi IoT Systems

LitePoint releases turnkey manufacturing test solution for Microchip’s next generation wireless ICs

SAN JOSE, California – October 13, 2021 – LitePoint, a leading provider of wireless test solutions, today announced a collaboration with Microchip Technology Inc. to deliver simplified design validation and turnkey manufacturing test solutions for next-generation Internet of Things (IoT) systems, based on Microchip’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chipsets.

As part of the collaboration, LitePoint has released a version of its IQfact+TM test automation software tailored for Microchip’s new WFI32E01 series of Wi-Fi MCU modules.

LitePoint’s IQfact+ is a turnkey, chipset-specific test development software that enables rapid-volume manufacturing with minimal engineering effort. With IQfact+, wireless system developers get access to proven software that enables control of devices under test and the test system with calibration routines that are uniquely optimized to reduce time and maximize throughput.

Microchip Technology is a leading provider of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi ICs, modules and reference designs that ensure robust, reliable and safe connections. Microchip’s comprehensive wireless connectivity portfolio meets the range, data rate, interoperability, frequency and topology needs of many IoT applications.

“The rapid growth of IoT is driving the deployment of billions of wirelessly-connected products, making the wireless connection quality of these devices paramount,” said Adam Smith, Director of Product Marketing at LitePoint. “We’re excited to work with Microchip to bring a simplified wireless test solution that will ensure their customers are able setup and test the wireless quality of Microchip-based devices in a matter of hours, compared to traditional test development, where set up and deployment can take weeks, or even months.”

“LitePoint provides a wireless test system that offers significant time-to-market advantages which are critical to our customers who want to integrate our chip-down reference designs into their applications,” said Steve Caldwell, VP of Microchip’s wireless solutions group. “Combining our innovation with LitePoint’s high volume production test technology provides our customers the tools they need to meet their customer’s demand for increasingly complex products, delivered at the highest quality.”

Technical Details
LitePoint’s IQxel flly integrated test platforms include signal generation and analysis for Wi-Fi connectivity, meeting the needs of product development and high-volume manufacturing. The IQxel product family includes support for WLAN IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be, as well as a full range of connectivity standards (Bluetooth 5.x, Zigbee, Z-Wave), with a frequency range from 400 to 6000 MHz and upgradable to support up to 7300 MHz for 6 GHz band.

For faster time to market, turnkey IQfact+ software solutions offer customized testing of leading chipsets and enable thorough design verification and rapid volume manufacturing with minimal engineering effort.
All trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

About LitePoint
LitePoint creates wireless test solutions and services for the world’s most innovative wireless device makers, helping them to ensure their products perform for today’s demanding consumers. A leading innovator in wireless testing, LitePoint products come out of the box ready to test the most widely used wireless chipsets in the world. LitePoint works with the leading makers of smartphones, tablets, PCs, wireless access points and chipsets. LitePoint is also at the forefront of testing the burgeoning world of connected devices…the Internet of Things. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, California and with offices around the world, LitePoint is a wholly owned subsidiary of Teradyne (NASDAQ:TER), a leading supplier of automation equipment for test and industrial applications. In 2020, Teradyne had revenue of $3.1 billion and today employs 5,700 people worldwide.For more information, visit www.teradyne.com.

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October 7, 2021

[Press Release]

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Data Elements™ delivers enhanced Wi-Fi® analytics

Wi-Fi Alliance^®adds Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E support to help service providers manage complex networks

Austin, Texas – October 7, 2021 – Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Data Elements™, the standardized approach to facilitating important key performance indicators for Wi-Fi^® network health, now supports advanced Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E networks. The latest generation of Wi-Fi is quickly gaining traction in residential networks, bringing a variety of features, capabilities, and advanced use cases that make network management more complex. Service providers deploying Wi-Fi Data Elements^™can more efficiently gather metrics to manage the complexity of multi-generation networks and provide the best user experience to their customers. Wi-Fi Data Elements effectively scales to support more devices operating on Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E networks, delivering detailed operating parameters and real-world performance indicators – such as PHY rates, airtime, and retry rates – that inform management decisions in dense and dynamic networks.

In addition to providing greater understanding into Wi-Fi networks – such as how many devices are on the network, use of bandwidth, signal strength measurements, and free airtime – Wi-Fi Data Elements also aligns diagnostic elements with Wi-Fi CERTIFIED EasyMesh™, supporting traffic prioritization and channel scanning in multi-access point (AP) networks. Support for Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E enables Wi-Fi Data Elements to provide key performance indicators associated with advanced use cases, maximizing service providers’ ability to deliver Quality of Service (QoS) for 4K video streaming, cloud gaming, AR/VR, and more over a larger service area. Support call frequency, support call duration, network interference, and congestion are also minimized because network administrators can proactively and more effectively resolve network issues even in very dense network environments.

“There are more than 250 key performance indicators offered by Wi-Fi Data Elements that service providers can use to recognize and resolve Wi-Fi network issues,” said Kevin Robinson, SVP of Marketing, Wi-Fi Alliance^®. “Wi-Fi Data Elements delivers those important performance markers in a standardized way, allowing service providers to respond better to the dynamic nature of advanced Wi-Fi networks and deliver the best experience to their customers.”

Deploying Wi-Fi Data Elements benefits the full managed network ecosystem. Network operators gain timely visibility into Wi-Fi performance within a customer’s network and diagnostic or analytics tool vendors benefit through use of standardized key performance indicators—specific to Wi-Fi networks—to create more effective tools.

For more information, please visit our website and download our technology overview and/or highlights sheet.

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 65,000 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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October 7, 2021

[Press Release]

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED EasyMesh™ enhances Wi-Fi® performance in multiple AP networks

Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E support allows service providers to ensure state-of-the-art Wi-Fi network coverage

Austin, TX – October 7, 2021 – Wi-Fi CERTIFIED EasyMesh^™ now incorporates the latest technologies from Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, improving Wi-Fi^® connectivity, performance, and efficiency in multiple access point (AP) networks. New capabilities enable service providers deploying Wi-Fi EasyMesh^™ to deliver higher data rates, increase network capacity, and reduce spectral congestion in home networks. Support for Wi-Fi 6E allows Wi-Fi EasyMesh networks to utilize less congested spectrum in the 6 GHz band to deliver the best experience with high bandwidth, low-latency services and applications. Added support for these advanced technologies allows Wi-Fi EasyMesh networks to self-monitor and intelligently manage an extended footprint while providing reliable, uniform whole-home coverage.

The expectations for the connected home have changed, and home networks must now support extended coverage areas – such as garages and basements that now serve as work and education areas – higher bandwidth applications, and up to 20 active devices at once¹. Home networks now present new challenges for service providers as they address a greater number of speed, latency, and connectivity concerns. Wi-Fi EasyMesh allows service providers to better support their customers’ growing networks and deliver more reliable and consistent quality of service, even with demanding applications

“Wi-Fi Alliance^® is continually improving the quality of experience and consistency of performance in Wi-Fi networks,” said Kevin Robinson, SVP of Marketing, Wi-Fi Alliance. “Wi-Fi EasyMesh is part of a compelling collection of Wi-Fi Alliance certification programs that provide foundational tools that enable service providers to intelligently manage the connected home experience.”

Benefits for service providers and product vendors

Wi-Fi EasyMesh incorporates the latest technologies that enhance performance between access points and client devices on the network. The combination of these capabilities improves spectral efficiency of the network and supports higher bandwidth and lower latency requirements. Service providers deploying Wi-Fi EasyMesh can provide more extensive coverage and can more efficiently manage network resources, providing their customers a more consistent experience. Additionally, new techniques to communicate Wi-Fi 6 capabilities in Wi-Fi EasyMesh networks can also be utilized by Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Data Elements^™ to provide analytics to operators for greater insight into multiple AP network health. Product vendors also benefit from improved certification efficiency and cost savings when bringing interoperable Wi-Fi EasyMesh devices to market.

Advanced Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E features now supported in Wi-Fi EasyMesh networks include:

BSS Coloring: reduces spectral congestion and ensures consistent service to multiple access points in dense environments.
Multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO): allows more downlink data to be transferred at one time, increasing network capacity by enabling access points to concurrently handle more devices.
OFDMA: enables access points to simultaneously communicate with multiple devices, implements scheduling techniques to help mitigate network interference, and effectively shares channels to increase network efficiency and provide lower latency.
Superwide, 160 MHz channels: support for up to seven, superwide channels enables higher data rates, while also further meeting lower latency requirements.
1024-QAM: increases data rates and incorporates more data into each transmission to improve spectral efficiency.

“CableLabs is excited about the new Wi-Fi CERTIFIED EasyMesh capabilities, with support for Wi-Fi 6 features such as Spatial Reuse Groups, BSS coloring, OFDMA and others,” said John Bahr, Principal Architect at CableLabs. “These features will allow Wi-Fi EasyMesh networks to more efficiently reuse RF spectrum making it a great option for cable operators to deliver the next generation of home Wi-Fi, with lower latency and better speeds.”

For more information, please visit our website and download our technology overview and/or highlights sheet.

¹ Consumer Expectations for Wi-Fi in 2021, AirTies

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October 7, 2021

[Blog]

Qualcomm Unleashes Wi-Fi Gaming Performance for Windows 11 PCs

Microsoft Windows 11 native support for Wi-Fi Dual Station, coupled with Qualcomm FastConnect 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous and broad industry support, enables Gaming and PC OEMs to effortlessly deliver ethernet-like reliability and latency.

Ecosystem support from Acer, AMD, Lenovo, Microsoft, Snapdragon Compute Platforms and Valve

Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., together with ecosystem leaders spanning key platforms and OEMs, is set to redefine wireless expectations for latency-sensitive gaming, productivity and learning applications on Window’s 11 PCs with Qualcomm® FastConnect™ systems. Wi-Fi Dual Station designed using Qualcomm® 4-Stream Dual Band Simultaneous, harnesses multiple Wi-Fi bands and antennas concurrently, to outperform traditional single band connections. By simultaneously utilizing the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band (or 6 GHz where available), latency issues in one band can be easily resolved at a system-level both quickly and transparently to the end user.

Qualcomm 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous

“Microsoft is pleased to bring ‘Wi-Fi Dual Station’ to the Windows 11 ecosystem, enabling our Windows OEMs and ecosystem leaders to deliver low-latency performance on the latest Wi-Fi hardware. Games and other latency-sensitive applications can now leverage two concurrent Wi-Fi connections providing best-in-class user experiences,” said Ian LeGrow, vice president, program management for windows platforms and services, Microsoft.

“More so now than ever before, high-performance, robust and low-latency wireless connectivity is the critical factor in delivering compelling, engaging and immersive experiences,” said Dino Bekis, vice president and general manager, mobile and compute connectivity, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “This unique collaboration with Microsoft was essential in realizing the promise of Windows 11 with Qualcomm Technologies’ latest Wi-Fi 6E 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous devices. Through focused collaboration, we address today’s unprecedented wireless challenges and dramatically extend these premium capabilities to the entire ecosystem.”

Valve has added initial support for Wi-Fi Dual Station to the Steamworks SDK to deliver low latency and jitter-free online play for the millions playing games that utilize the Steamworks SDK for networking. This includes Valve’s popular online titles Dota 2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), which will now benefit from the improved and sustained responsiveness when played on a Windows 11 gaming device with supporting FastConnect connectivity systems.

Even occasional high latency (jitter) events significantly deteriorate online game play which has historically caused PC gamers to stay tethered to Ethernet. Wi-Fi Dual Station with Qualcomm 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous addresses the need for sustained low latency over extended periods of time, unleashing gaming experiences with wire-class responsiveness.

“We’re seeing considerable reductions in jitter and packet loss with Wi-Fi Dual Station enabled, especially when the AP is heavily loaded,” said Fletcher Dunn at Valve. “This is important for any online title, and especially beneficial for competitive online titles such as CS:GO and Dota 2. Games using the Steamworks SDK for networking will experience these same benefits with no added development time.”

In testing conducted by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. with off-the-shelf retail Wi-Fi 6 Access Points, Wi-Fi Dual Station with Qualcomm 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous consistently delivered sustained jitter free wireless gameplay similar to Ethernet latency under the same conditions. Further, in head-to-head wireless comparisons with Single Station Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Dual Station yielded 4x lower latency and sustained jitter-free gameplay, underscoring the immediate value to online gamers.

Qualcomm 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous 2-in-1 performance

“Acer’s new gaming notebooks that feature FastConnect 6900 connectivity will provide ethernet-grade Wi-Fi,” said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, IT Products Business, Acer Inc. “With responsiveness offered by the Qualcomm 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous, gamers will be able to enjoy a low-latency gaming experience without the wires.”

Beyond gaming, these technology advancements and capabilities provide material improvements for the ever-increasing demands of the enterprise PC industry. The combination of superior Wi-Fi 6 feature implementation (such as Wi-Fi Dual Station) and the extension of those capabilities to new 6 GHz spectrum (Wi-Fi 6E), are at the heart of addressing the exponentially growing demand for intense two-way data traffic (video calls, collaboration tools, remote management) and ensuring sustained productivity whether in a centralized office or decentralized remote work environment.

“We are excited to work with Qualcomm Technologies to deliver best-in-class connectivity solutions on AMD enterprise platforms,” said Jason Banta, Corporate Vice President and General Manager, Client OEM, AMD. “Leadership connectivity performance is critical, and together, FastConnect, Microsoft Windows and AMD raise the bar for speed, capacity and latency performance to bring exceptional hybrid-work experiences to a demanding workforce.”

“Working, learning, collaborating have all become distributed beyond what we could have imagined even two years ago, and connectivity must rise to the occasion to deliver the speed, capacity and reliable low latency needed to handle modern computing applications and environments. Wi-Fi Dual Station with Qualcomm 4-stream Dual Band Simultaneous, together with 6 GHz operation (Wi-Fi 6E) have enormous potential, and we applaud all involved in bringing these advanced wireless technologies to fruition. Lenovo is committed to delivering game-changing technology solutions and we look forward to harnessing these next gen features for a better customer experience in the future.” Luis Hernandez, vice president, PC and Smart Solutions Development, Lenovo Intelligent Devices Group.

Qualcomm FastConnect

For more information about FastConnect please visit https://www.qualcomm.com/products/wi-fi/fastconnect.

About Qualcomm
Qualcomm is the world’s leading wireless technology innovator and the driving force behind the development, launch, and expansion of 5G. When we connected the phone to the internet, the mobile revolution was born. Today, our foundational technologies enable the mobile ecosystem and are found in every 3G, 4G and 5G smartphone. We bring the benefits of mobile to new industries, including automotive, the internet of things, and computing, and are leading the way to a world where everything and everyone can communicate and interact seamlessly.

Qualcomm Incorporated includes our licensing business, QTL, and the vast majority of our patent portfolio. Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, operates, along with its subsidiaries, substantially all of our engineering, research and development functions, and substantially all of our products and services businesses, including our QCT semiconductor business.

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