Introducing Installation-as-a-Service

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A sister company of Broad Sky Networks, TechLink Services is a trusted partner for technology infrastructure projects and wireless networks across North America. The company has a robust team of project managers, engineers, and software developers who design, deploy, and manage a variety of IT related projects for customers. The company’s installation-as-a-service portfolio includes everything from structured cabling, Demarc extension, site survey, wireless networks, digital menu boards, digital signage, security camera installation, and much more.

Why TechLink?

Now Broad Sky Networks’ partners can benefit by offering installation-as-a-service options from TechLink. Services are billed through Broad Sky Networks and partners earn commissions while helping their customers meet their installation goals! Whether customers need a single site install or a rollout with thousands of sites and multiple hardware components, TechLink has a national network of professionals installers ready to work.

  • Nationwide reach – TechLink has a nationwide reach and can provide services and installation for multi-site deployments
  • A track record for success – TechLink has completed 120,000 successful installations and projects have a 99% success rate
  • Best-in-class technology –  TechLink leverages a sophisticated web portal, where all work orders are created and monitored as work progresses. All project details are tracked in the portal to ensure maximum accountability and to keep everyone engaged. TechLink technicians also use a mobile app to support collaborative communication and to facilitate instant document and photo sharing – so projects stay on track 24 X 7.
‘A white glove approach’

TechLink takes a different approach than most managed service providers, which makes working with them a breeze. They provide top tier, ‘white glove treatment’ to all customers starting with how they plan, design, and deploy IT solutions. Senior TechLink project managers review the requirements of every project and then hand-select the best suited technical resources for the job. The project management team pays attention to every project detail for full transparency and accountability – from initial conversations during pre-deployment until the installation is complete. After installation, PMs continue to stay engaged to facilitate repairs, technical upgrades, or provide any ongoing services supporting the installation.

What TechLink customers are saying . . .

TechLink has a long track record of success, completing thousands of successful field installation projects. The company has a network of 3000-plus highly certified technicians, meaning they can meet any field services installation challenge head-on. Here’s what customers are saying:

“Another great implementation. Being new to the company I am really impressed with your group so far. The project updates are great, the techs are arriving on time, are knowledgable and professional. Keep up the great work and I truly appreciate your group’s efforts.”

–  Datacom customer

“Thank you for your help with this project, overall it was a success! The clients have reached out praising your tech and his ability to go above and beyond, which is exactly what my team would have done and what we are looking for with an install team!…”

–  Digital signage customer

“Thanks a billion, guys. I think I will tell my leadership working with you all was the best decision they made since hiring me.”

– Digital signage customer

What’s next? Start earning!

If you’d like to learn more about how you can offer complete installation services to your customers leveraging TechLink’s network of professional installers, talk to us! We can help your customers meet their goals for achieving seamless installation, while you earn a healthy commission! All services are billed through Broad Sky Networks and you get paid on installs. Start now!

Don’t Freak Out, But We Need to Talk About Security and Wireless

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It has been said that ‘you can’t have a picnic without a few ants.’ Well, the same can be said for wireless technologies like 4G and now 5G. Users of 4G/5G services get the advantage of superior, uninterrupted connectivity, and the ultimate flexibility for communication and mobile internet. The adoption of 5G will bring even more benefits like reduced latency, energy savings, cost reductions, and higher data capacity. The downside is that mobile wireless services also present security challenges at the hardware and network level. As carriers continue to deploy extensive 4G/5G wireless networks, IT leaders need to be aware of vulnerabilities and security concerns associated with each. This is particularly a concern as 4G/5G is becoming the infrastructure of choice for the Internet of Things (IoT) and business communication applications.

Think about how security issues could play out in a ‘smart city’ IoT application. Potential risks in 5G networks could pose a threat to smart traffic lights and street lighting, or electronic road signs – causing potentially dangerous situations. A recent study by Positive Technologies highlights flaws found in wireless’s GTP protocol (General Tunneling Protocol). With no built-in encryption included in GTP, security and authentication are left to be managed elsewhere in the applications. The report goes on to explain that exploiting these issues doesn’t require super hacker skills either. Instead, it only takes a laptop, a free software installer for ‘testing,’ and basic programming skills. (Source: Positive Technologies).

Don’t forget about AKA

Another issue is that 5G security is built around AKA (Authentication and Key Agreement). This authentication protocol is supposed to address the issue of devices using fake base stations known as IMSI catchers (International Mobile Subscriber Identity-catcher) also sometimes called ‘StingRays.’ However, there are some holes. (Source: Naked Security). Why is this a problem you might ask? By luring a smartphone to connect to a fake base, the protocol permits traceability attacks. Attackers can potentially identify the device’s owner and track their physical location. Although this scenario is harder with 5G, setting up fake base stations is still possible – however, the subscriber’s identity would be hidden using public key encryption managed by the mobile network.

How can security risks affect real users

Even if your business isn’t building a smart city, designing self-driving cars, or launching an enterprise-wide IoT project, organizations should still take notice. Not addressing security holes could lead to data breaches giving bad actors access to your network, Denial of Service (DoS), or a complete takeover. Ordinary mobile users are also vulnerable – would-be attackers can spy on mobile subscribers or potentially intercept internet traffic. If that’s not scary enough, these types of threats could allow for attacks on autonomous vehicles, medical identity, and more.  The good news is that understanding wireless security issues more clearly can help organizations take the proper precautions around their adoption and dependence on mobile wireless networks.

  • 5G offers some security enhancements – Experts tell us setting ISMI StingRays for 5G devices requires a lot more time and sophisticated hacking skills, compared to 4G. This fact buys defenders much needed time to close critical security gaps.
  • Firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and advanced malware – Minimizing security risks are all about reducing issues that account for most security incidents. These tools can help block primary 5G security threats. Malware that goes going beyond signature-based tools can better identify attacks designed to evade basic filters.
  • Network switches and routers should leverage big data and machine learning – For multi-stage threats that avoid basis filters, big data and machine learning tools embedded into network switches and routers can offer advanced protection. Most believe these add-on technologies are ideal because they turn the devices into 5G security sensors.

Security is one of the fastest growing concerns when it comes to the enterprise network. If you want help better understanding security challenges your customers may be facing with 4G/5G connectivity, talk to Broad Sky Networks! We can show you the best practices and steps for keeping data secure at the network’s edge and in transit. We can help! Visit our video library to learn more!

Rapid Deploy Internet: Get Day-One Connectivity with 4G LTE

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It’s no surprise that businesses in nearly every industry have become more dependent on networking technologies and internet connectivity over the past decade. Companies require connectivity for things such as credit card transactions, VoIP, access to centralized and cloud-based systems, databases, and applications, plus internet access for kiosks, digital signage, and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices. For all these applications, in the past, the predominant choice for introducing connectivity was Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), DSL, or cable. Downsides to fixed-line connections include limited accessibility, frequent repair issues, outages, and long deployment windows – ranging from 30 days to six months. Even when pre-ordered months in advance, customers often report delays in getting connectivity going – leaving businesses ‘out in the cold’ with zero internet.

Delays in procuring connectivity can mean that locations cannot operate at full capacity and productivity can suffer. Imagine if a construction site cannot access CAD design files they need? Or if a new food truck can’t take orders at the biggest event of the year? Or if a retail location cannot process transactions for customers? A lack of reliable business-class connectivity can be detrimental to the business. Not only that, if you’re the telecom or technology partner responsible for helping customers, missed deadlines by carriers or delayed installations can also hurt your reputation.

In today’s ‘always-connected’ world, what should businesses do? Just get in line and suffer through missed deadlines? Not any more! 4G LTE connectivity is internet delivered via a cellular connection, and it’s transforming how businesses connect. With the right 4G LTE mobile networking solution, a company’s new location won’t be left ‘out in the cold.’ Instead, organizations can get connected from day one.

At Broad Sky Networks, we deliver a powerful, immediately-deployable solution for temporary or full-time connectivity. Our solution is fully configured, static IP-enabled, and enterprise-grade ready – it’s perfectly matched for today’s modern business. It offers speed and reliability required for VoIP solutions, IPsec, VPN, VDT, and Citrix support. If you’re a managed service provider (MSP) or technology partner we can help your customers get connected quickly, avoiding the headaches and disappointments of fixed-line deployments. Let’s look at common scenarios ideal for 4G LTE connectivity.

  • ‘Pop up’ connectivity or temporary or remote connections – On top of providing rapid connectivity for sites where a fixed-line installation is delayed, 4G LTE connection can also provide ‘pop-up’ or temporary connectivity at locations where conventional fixed-lines aren’t readily available. This might include mobile access for emergency service vehicles or stations, retail pop-up stores, outdoor events, or remote work sites such as construction trailers. A mobile networking solution from Broad Sky can instantly deliver fast, secure and reliable connectivity to nearly any location. Teams can run business-critical applications such as Point of Sale and provide connectivity service to employees and customers to drive productivity. Another benefit? On top of day-one connectivity, the service is also portable, so it can move to where it’s needed most.
  • Failover connectivity – Rapid deploy 4G LTE internet can also serve as a failover connection for corporate sites or branch offices once fixed lines are up and running. The cellular-backed solution can integrate with wired connectivity solutions for greater resiliency, keeping businesses connected even if their primary connection fails. This capability extends the value of 4G LTE solution and gives companies peace of mind knowing they’ll have connectivity, no matter what.
  • ‘Cutting the wire’ – Advancements in speed and reliability make 4G LTE connectivity a true alternative to ‘fixed line’ solutions. 4G LTE networking technologies use multiple operators, combining cellular signals within a single solution. Built-in redundancy makes it possible for organizations to ‘cut the wire’ to their primary connectivity solutions. Another benefit is that 4G networking solutions are cloud managed. Teams can manage and monitor all devices remotely, even extending the policies of ‘corporate network’ to the network edge.

Waiting on carriers and delayed fixed-line internet deployments can be devastating to a business. Missed deadlines can result in inefficient operations, lagging customer service, and huge costs to the organization. Stop the cycle! At Broad Sky Networks, we deliver a truly rapid deploy internet solution. Give us a call and let us help you start ‘wowing’ customers from day one.

Business-class Satellite Internet and Why It’s Brilliant!

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For those of us living and working in developed and densely populated areas, we sometimes take for granted the fact the broadband internet is as ubiquitous as a Starbucks on every corner. But the truth remains that for many businesses operating in remote or rural areas, broadband internet options may be few and far between. Slow and unreliable internet or even providers that promise the delivery of DSL, cable, or 4G/LTE often fail to come through within required timelines. These missed deadlines by providers can wreak havoc on project timelines and client deliverables. For those opening branch offices, remote retail locations, or temporary work sites like a construction job site, broadband internet is critical for everyday activities.

Whether your organization requires access to business-critical SaaS applications, VoIP, VPN, Point of Sale (PoS) applications, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication or Internet of Things (IoT) device connectivity, reliable broadband has evolved from a nice-to-have to a must-have. Fast, dependable broadband connectivity is also the lifeblood of the business, bringing teams together to support better decision making and to drive new levels of customer service delivery.

Business-grade satellite – reaching where other broadband can’t

The beauty of enterprise-grade satellite broadband solutions today is that there are flexible plans available with top satellite service carriers. The trick is to find a technology partner that can help build a customized satellite internet solution and service that fits specific business needs− without overpaying, getting locked into a long contract or signing up for services that can’t meet demands for speed and usage. When looking for a high-quality satellite broadband solution, look for partners and technology that can deliver fast speeds and path diversity with continuous coverage across the US. Let’s take a closer look at what options to consider when evaluating business-grade satellite services.

  • Reliable mobile broadband or backup solutions- Whether the organization requires highly-reliable primary connectivity, mobile broadband, internet at a remote location, or a comprehensive backup solution for business continuity or disaster recovery, business satellite services can meet these demands. Satellite internet with 4G LTE connections can keep employees and equipment connected in challenging terrains or environments. Brilliant Broadband Satellite options from Broad Sky Networks, for instance, have built-in path diversity to ensure a reliable connection that can handle spikes in traffic, wherever work is getting done. Be sure to ask providers if they can deliver uncongested, low-latency data transmission, for optimal speed, performance, and reliability.
  • Fast speeds and high-usage options- Unlike satellite options of the past, next-generation business-grade satellite solutions can reach speeds up to 25Mbps x 3Mbps. High usage plans are also now available allowing for 500GB and over per month. Together, these speeds, usage plans and bandwidth delivered with satellite provide enough capacity for users to connect into collaboration apps, share video or easily share large data files. Also, be sure to avoid expensive overage fees by asking providers about data limits. Broad Sky Networks offers ‘anytime data’ and no hard data limits on usage. Instead of incurring huge, unexpected costs due to high internet usage for a particular month, with Broad Sky Networks satellite, internet access remains available at reduced speeds until the next billing cycle. Look for these smarter satellite features and capabilities to efficiently bring together distant teams for frictionless collaboration, instead of spending time worrying about exceeding data caps.
  • Reliable M2M and IoT connectivity- The right satellite broadband solution can keep users connected to their internet-powered devices and can provide access to real-time data exchange from machine-to-machine, to equipment or other applications. The extensive coverage and high-speed of satellite-delivered by Broad Sky Networks can help organizations ensure consistent connectivity and maintain tighter control over assets. This might include monitoring solutions at a construction site, solar farm, or an oil and gas drilling site or another power-generation facility that relies on SCADA solutions to monitor industrial processes and equipment.
  • Look for built-in Wi-Fi– Depending on business requirements, and it may be important to look for satellite options with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities. Broad Sky’s Brilliant Broadband solution comes with an integrated Wi-Fi Modem that includes a modem Wi-Fi router. Dual-band 802.11ac technology delivers a stable and secure wireless connection across the business so users can use smartphones and mobile devices to access the applications they need most, wherever they are working. Ask providers for those devices that include integrated business-grade modems which are designed to provide the highest level of performance, reliability, and security for 24×7 business-critical applications.

Talk to BroadSky Networks today about how Brilliant Broadband advanced satellite options can keep your organization connected and thriving with reliable internet connectivity. Advanced satellite technology offered from Broad Sky Networks can help businesses with mobile connectivity, remote office deployments, temporary job sites, and much more. If you’d like to learn more about how Broad Sky Networks can help take your business to the next level, email us or give us a call at (877) 291-9575.

SD-WAN and Wireless Coverage

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A network infrastructure that’s agile and more efficient than a traditional network environment is worth its weight in gold for modern businesses. That’s because in today’s Software-as-a-service (SaaS) world, anytime anywhere connectivity is a must for remote workers and branch offices alike. The old way of backhauling traffic from branch offices back to headquarters to the internet and back is no longer desirable or manageable for network managers.

As SaaS skyrockets and branch offices become the norm, Software-Defined Wide-Area Networking (SD-WAN) has emerged as a winning strategy for today’s leading businesses. SDN-WAN has forever changed how networks are built and are managed. SDN extracts network services from the underlying infrastructure by decoupling network controls. SDN allows for programmatic control over the network from a central location, generally a cloud-based console. As more users rely on the cloud to access business-critical applications (i.e., Salesforce, Office 365, G-suite, etc.), SD-WAN enables organizations to adjust their networks to match application needs. Without increasing reliance on manual controls or expensive multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) links, SD-WAN aggregates multiple access technologies, like cable, broadband, 4G/LTE, and routes traffic across the best line depending on real-time availability, application requirements and policies.

Software-defined WAN routers also dramatically streamline and automate traditionally tedious network tasks, like provisioning, orchestration, and management. In doing so, SD-WAN routes lower WAN operating and capital costs significantly, improve application performance and help businesses become more agile and productive, particularly in managing remote branch networks.

Linking SD-WAN and wireless

With the adoption of SD-WAN continuing to grow in leaps and bounds, the technology is also being coupled with wireless capabilities to give businesses even more functionality.  Cloud-based applications are driving the need for bandwidth along with the need for a truly redundant connection at every location. SD-WAN and wireless offer a simpler rollout of these new network deployments.  This ‘branch in a box’ concept brings simplified wireless connectivity to local area networks (LANs). Let’s take a closer look at why is wireless an essential component to a successful SD-WAN deployment.

  1.    A MORE complete SD-WAN solution- For small and medium-sized businesses with several branch locations, SD-WAN coupled with wireless is a comprehensive solution that previously required additional vendor support. Cloud connectivity demands an always-on connection driving the need for truly diverse redundancy.   Look for SD-WAN solutions that offer wireless connectivity as a component as well as wired connectivity and include centralized, cloud-based management capabilities for a more efficient branch network configuration and simplified management.
  1.    Branch-in-a-box- These coupled SD-WAN/wireless solutions require minimal manual set up and provisioning. Look for software-based WANs that tout zero-touch deployments and automatic configuration so branch offices only need power and network connectivity to start operation. SD-WAN and wireless solutions enable the single source of orchestration for the branch network, meaning Wi-Fi connects branch offices and allows for the management of movement of traffic remotely from a cloud-based console.
  1.    Intelligent traffic management and software-defined policy management- The added visibility and insight into the network with SD-WAN saves times and lets network managers centrally control bandwidth, applications, and usage remotely by the click of a button through a cloud-based interface. SD-WAN routers can also automatically adjust applications flows and implement software-defined algorithms to optimize application performance, based on application-centric rules (i.e., VoIP, video, etc.) and user-defined policies. Teams can prioritize critical applications, control traffic by restricting application usage and designate permissions to non-mission critical applications, as needed.

Chances are, your business is relying on the enterprise network to extend connectivity to the cloud, data center, WAN, and wired and wireless LANs, from the corporate office to distributed branch offices. To meet the increasing demands placed on the network today, look to SD-WAN services coupled with wireless to simplify and automate branch deployments and centralize management across the board. Talk to Broad Sky Networks about how 4G LTE and  Brilliant Broadband and key components to a diverse, flexible and easy to deploy SD-WAN solution for unprecedented network visibility and control. Contact us today to learn more!

Temporary Deployments and the Construction Industry

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For contractors and others in the civil engineering and construction industry, high-speed broadband has become as routine as using a hard hat on the job site. Contractors and builders require reliable, fast internet access to file project status reports, access and share 3D models, share designs with machine control equipment, other Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The challenge is, construction job sites often require short-term broadband access which can get expensive. Not only that, construction job sites are often remote or are in new undeveloped areas where traditional DSL or cable carrier access is not yet available. Even when carriers promise service by a specific date, circuits often don’t turn up in time. Or they are delays in the carrier buildout or plans change at the last minute. This can be a serious problem because any lag in broadband service on a construction site can lead to costly delays and massive schedule disruptions that can impact the project timeline.

What’s the solution for temporary deployments? Today’s leading companies in the construction industry are turning to wireless services that harness the power of 4G LTE and LTE-A networks, instead of traditional wired networks. By moving away from the wired internet, business owners, project managers, and other users can get streamlined and reliable access to all the business-critical applications they depend on every day. This includes software-as-a-service applications and intense bandwidth applications. Wireless broadband services supported by 4G LTE networks can deliver lightning-fast Internet connectivity no matter where the offices or job site are located. Let’s take a closer look at the biggest benefits and what to look for when selecting wireless broadband for temporary deployments.

  1. Quick deployment- A wireless router that leverages 4G LTE and LTE-A networks is an easy, affordable way for construction crews and others working at remote sites to share a single Wi-Fi connection. Not only that, instead of needing to lay down the actual carrier lines, which can take months, 4G LTE wireless services can be up and running in just days. When evaluating wireless routers and providers, look for ‘enterprise-grade’ options that are pre-provisioned, with a plug-and-play modem/router for simplified and faster installation.
  2. Fast broadband speed- One of the biggest advantages to 4G LTE wireless services is that it offers fast enough internet speeds to support all business applications and multiple users at the same time. These solutions offer mobile broadband speeds that are comparable to those of fixed-line access technologies. Taking advantage of the latest technology upgrades by the wireless carriers, LTE Advanced areas offer increased speeds and carrier aggregation for superior performance.
  3. Flexible plans to fit all needs and changing requirements- In some cases, a construction site has dozens of contractors and subcontractors that require reliable internet access to share project design files or collaborate using VoIP. Or perhaps it’s a small operation that’s compiling as-built data after the completion of a large warehouse. Either way, there’s a 4G/LTE broadband package that can fit those needs. Unlike traditional broadband access that can be costly with rigid offerings with long commitments, 4G/LTE services can deliver flexible, usage-based data plans that can be customized to meet the needs and price points of the customer.

New enterprise-grade wireless routers that leverage 4G LTE and LTE-A networks are a breakthrough for those in the construction industry and those requiring reliable, temporary internet deployments. Talk to Broad Sky Networks today about our flexible 4G/LTE plans and premium support services. Combined with our exclusive white glove service our wireless routers are rapidly deployable, highly available, combining internet access and wireless services all in a single device that is easy to deploy for almost-instant connectivity. Broad Sky is an expert for connectivity in the construction industry, we make wireless work.  Contact us today to learn more!

Enterprise Satellite Internet Reinvented with 4G LTE!

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A closer look at Brilliant Broadband from Broad Sky Networks

Whether you’re a small business, you have several remote facilities in rural areas, or you have temporary internet needs like at a construction site, highly reliable internet access has never been more important. Businesses require fast, secure and reliable internet to keep machines connected, to fulfill customer orders, to run payroll, VoIP applications, VPNs and other critical SaaS applications like Office 365. Broadband internet is today’s business lifeline, and it’s needed anywhere business gets done.

It used to be that satellite internet services were often seen as the ‘last resort’ option for businesses in remote or rural areas. Due to line-of-site requirements and simply the orbit of the earth, enterprise satellite internet was slow and had significant latency issues. Providers would also set strict ‘bandwidth limits’ of data allowed per month. Those limitations meant business with streaming needs, VPN requirements, VoIP services or just those that had several users, couldn’t rely on it.

A new FAST and RELIABLE option for internet

Luckily, satellite services have improved significantly over the years, and businesses should take a closer look at service options that combine enterprise satellite, and 4G wireless.

Combining satellite with 4G/LTE – Due to the high cost of running cable and configuring wired connections, wireless broadband is an attractive option for many businesses and applications. Businesses who move into underserved wired areas need high-speed internet at a reasonable cost to run projects or support events.

Advanced 4G/LTE mobile broadband routers and satellite internet service combined delivers the best of both worlds. They bring together the low cost of satellite internet with a 4G/LTE router/modem to route and manage the most latency-sensitive traffic. This keeps business-critical VoIP and VPN traffic running smoothly, securely and reliably over LTE, while running all other internet traffic use over satellite for a more efficient and cost-friendly option. Combining enterprise satellite internet with 4G/ LTE also allows users access to bigger data plans such as 500GB and over.

Speeds are up to 25 Mbps download, and 3 Mbps upload- Satellite service speeds are faster than ever before, and they offer more bandwidth capacity and throughput to satisfy customers wherever they’re doing business. Look for solutions that combine the synergy of satellite and 4G wireless internet into one service. These options will deliver the best experience in terms of speed, price, and performance.

Reach anywhere in the US- When high-speed internet is a necessity to get the job done, an internet option that combines satellite internet with a 4G/ LTE router gives users the ultimate flexibility and reliability. Look for a solution that can be up and running quickly and can be provisioned anywhere in the country.

If your organization is expanding or starting a project in a rural area where traditional wired internet isn’t an option, talk to Broad Sky Networks. Broad Sky Networks’ new Enterprise Satellite 4G LTE Brilliant Broadband service is the only service that bundles low-cost satellite internet with a 4G LTE router for the best internet experience possible. The bundled service pricing begins at $200/month for 40GB of combined internet traffic. Email sales@broadskynetworks.net us or give us a call at (877) 291-9575.