How CBRS Is a Model for Spectrum Management
As digital habits continue to change and adapt to new realities, consumers are using more wireless devices. This growth means there is a need to ensure access to ample wireless spectrum to power these emerging technologies. As policymakers consider how to squeeze more spectrum from an already crowded spectral landscape, new and innovative solutions can enable more efficient use of the finite amount of wireless spectrum available. One such solution lies in the band of spectrum known as Citizens Broadband Radio Service, or CBRS. What Is CBRS? CBRS refers to an innovative spectrum-sharing regime
Broadband Stats: Wi-Fi Loves Smart Homes
Constant connectivity and smart devices have transformed the American home. Robust and reliable broadband networks that deliver gigabit Wi-Fi speeds are powering these digital hubs.
Q&A: A Big Year For Wireless Spectrum
The continued growth of wireless connectivity and IoT, spurred on by post-pandemic digital habits, has resulted in a renewed need for more wireless spectrum and new rules surrounding its management. NCTA spectrum expert, Vice President & Associate General Counsel Becky Tangren, shares a glimpse into what the coming year holds for the future of the airwaves. To learn even more about wireless spectrum, visit the NCTA website. 1. What wireless issues will be front and center in 2023? Mobile wireless has evolved from simple phone calls into things like Wi-Fi, augmented and virtual reality, smart
Broadband Stats: Cable Brings Competition to Mobile Marketplace
With America’s cable broadband providers now offering highly competitive mobile service plans, Americans have more choices than ever before. Today, Comcast and Charter are the fastest growing retail wireless companies in the marketplace, each with over five million mobile subscribers, and more providers are entering the space.
Meeting America's Needs Through a Balanced Spectrum Policy
As today's digital society demands next-generation technologies, seamless connectivity and immersive applications, the demand for new wireless spectrum – the resource that makes these experiences possible – remains critically important. Setting the Stage: At a U.S. House hearing on Friday that will explore how America can maintain its spectrum leadership, NCTA will urge policymakers to strive for a smart spectrum sharing approach – including opening up more unlicensed spectrum – to foster tremendous technological growth, innovation, and healthy competition. How Spectrum Impacts America's
How Cable Is Shaking Up the Mobile Marketplace
Cable providers have long sought to expand the types of services they provide, starting with television, then broadband, and further expanding to home phone service. In recent years, America’s connectivity leaders have again extended their offerings to include mobile service, giving Americans more choices than ever before. By leasing capacity from existing mobile networks, cable ISPs offer service as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and millions of American consumers are taking advantage of the competitive alternative that is now available. In recent years, Charter and Comcast have
What’s Next For Wi-Fi?
Over the past few years, more and more devices with Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E certification have started hitting the market. That means better security, faster speeds, better energy efficiency, and lower latency when these devices are paired with a router that also bears a Wi-Fi 6 or 6E certification. As those devices continue to fill our lives, the next generation of Wi-Fi technology is already under way. Under development now, Wi-Fi 7 will improve upon the updates that come with Wi-Fi 6E as well as incorporate new developments since the last certifications. These updates will facilitate the next
The Future of Using (and Reusing) Spectrum
From laptops to cell phones to tablets to smart home technology, it's hard to escape the sea of devices that people depend on every day to keep themselves informed, entertained and connected to others. While consumers have a huge appetite for wireless devices, they may not give much thought to the essential resource that makes it possible – spectrum. At the beginning of the 20th Century, there was hardly a need for spectrum regulation, as the use of radio frequencies for mass communications was the exception rather than the rule. But as the use of the airwaves became more popular, the Federal
Broadband Stats: Celebrating World Wi-Fi Day 2022
Monday marked World Wi-Fi Day, and there’s a lot to celebrate about this revolutionary technology. Most people use Wi-Fi to access the internet on a regular basis. Though it may not be as talked about as some technologies, it continues to play a vital role in how we live our modern digital lives. With new updates like Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, there’s a lot of innovation happening to get excited about. Here are some key stats about this powerful technology platform.
Broadband Stats: The Power of Wi-Fi
Over the past decade, the United States and the rest of the world has seen a boon in the growth of connected devices. From smart lights to speakers to internet-connected refrigerators and washing machines, new technology is powering the growth of the smart home. These technologies all have one thing in common—they rely on fast Wi-Fi. With more devices utilizing the power of Wi-Fi, the FCC recently opened up more wireless spectrum to ensure these technologies continue to work efficiently and smoothly. The latest report from Cisco estimates that the average home will gain over five connected
