Ruckus, Federated Wireless and Syniverse announced a collaboration that aims to provide enterprises with the ability to deploy secure private LTE networks in lieu of Wi-Fi, using the Citizens Broadband Radio Service spectrum at 3.5 GHz.
All three of the companies bring their own piece to the puzzle of putting together a private LTE network: Syniverse — which earlier this year launched its Secure Global Access Network, provides a network core and management; CBRS cheerleader Federated Wireless enables CBRS spectrum sharing through its spectrum controller; and Ruckus, provides CBRS spectrum support on its small cell access points. The three companies set up such a network at Syniverse’s Innovation Lab center in Tampa, Florida, which opened last July.
“The network offers service to companies that need to take advantage of an LTE network with in-building and outdoor coverage and capacity expansion on a massive scale,” said Michael O’Brien, group VP for corporate development and strategy at Syniverse, in a statement. “The network offers an alternative to unsecured Wi-Fi connectivity that is easy to deploy and offers cost-efficient local network capabilities.”
The partners said that enterprises “often offer subpar Wi-Fi access” for guests and employees, and said that utilizing CBRS will enable them to offer a higher quality user experience — as well as better security. The three-tiered spectrum sharing model that CBRS uses includes some spectrum that is available under General Authorized Access with no need for a spectrum license, as well as the Priority Access Licenses which will be auctioned.
Iyad Tarazi, president and CEO of Federated, said that CBRS “[opens] up endless possibilities through new private LTE and industrial IoT applications” and that the joint solution offers a private LTE network that is easy to set up and combined high security and good coverage.
“CBRS marks a new era in mobile services, which makes it easier and less expensive for businesses to meet demanding application requirements,” said Joel Lindholm, VP of Ruckus’ LTE business. “A private LTE network enables secure applications, including tablets and handhelds in healthcare environments, transmission of user data in smart meters, and IoT-connected devices in remote areas. Together, we’re opening up compelling new use cases that only private LTE networks can effectively address.”
