No Overage Plans are Here! Tips for choosing the right wireless data plan.

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Pervasive wireless access is now a must-have for businesses. And, no matter what type of business you run, wireless connectivity and networking are at the heart of your success. That might include having multiple offices or retail locations that require secure branch networks and connectivity to business-critical apps, such as a point-of-sale system. Or, your business may have several remote employees or sales executives that travel frequently. Mobile data plans might also support a mobile workforce, which includes first responders, public transit, or mobile health professionals.

What are your wireless plans missing?

To meet the growing demand for wireless data, most companies follow a ‘build your own’ model, selecting the best carriers for their region. But the problem is, for most businesses no single carrier can deliver adequate coverage for every single location. So, in order to keep employees productive and always-connected, companies are often purchasing multiple wireless data plans from several top-tier carriers. While this approach can work, it can also present other problems. Challenges might include gaps in coverage, overbuying data services, or choosing between expensive ‘unlimited plans’ or those that have strict caps on data. On top of that, having several wireless providers also means companies have to contend with managing multiple invoices and carriers, which can be a pain.

Is there a better way?

So how do you make the right decision when it comes to wireless connectivity? How can you help your customers feel confident that their wireless data plans will grow with them?

It all starts with finding the right partner. Broad Sky Networks now offers managed wireless solutions, based on advanced engineering and cross-carrier pooling and provisioning capabilities. Broad Sky’s mobility solutions are unique because they provide reliable nationwide coverage by combining service from the most trusted carriers – AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Our multi-site wireless solutions meet always-on wireless data needs, giving customers access to cross-carrier pooling without the headaches of managing the services internally. Companies can choose from ‘no overage’ plans and others – always getting the very best wireless data connection at each business location, or when teams are on the go.

Let’s review of highlights of Broad Sky’s wireless data plans:

  • Simplified and managed cross-carrier pooling of wireless data plans – cross-carrier pooling delivers nationwide coverage anywhere, anytime, with a unified single-source solution. Companies with multiple offices can share single plans across various providers, guaranteeing the best possible wireless performance and access at each given location.
  • Zero surprises with ‘no overage’ plans – With ‘no overage’ plans, customers benefit from predictable monthly charge for wireless data. By partnering with top carriers and providing advanced routers, organizations can also spend more time focused on their business instead of dealing with wireless bills and issues.
  • Adapt plans as needed – Managed plans from Broad Sky Networks empower customers by sending notifications when data usage is trending over the allotted usage pool. Monitoring and alerting capabilities help businesses adapt to changing conditions, even mid-month. Greater insight and control also gives teams the ability to find optimal plans on an on-going basis.
  • No ‘one size fits all’ – The Broad Sky managed wireless service is ideal for large enterprises with dozens of retail locations or SMBs with one office and remote employees.
  • Simplified billing – The solution also streamlines billing so that businesses receive a single monthly bill, rather than individual invoices from multiple providers. Unified billing saves tremendous time and gives organizations a better handle on their monthly wireless bills for cost analysis.
Move forward with confidence

Need help understanding the nuances of various wireless data plans and options? Talk to Broad Sky Networks! We know the ins and outs of wireless connectivity and network infrastructures, plus we manage data and connectivity for customers! That means your customers are always getting the best possible deal at the best possible prices, protecting them from inadequate coverage or costly wireless bill surprises. Email us to learn more!

Broad Sky Named in The Top Third on Inc. 5000’s 2019 List of Nation’s Fastest Growing Private Companies

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 Managed Wireless Internet Provider Broad Sky Networks ranked for the third consecutive year on Inc. 5000 at 1717 with a three-year growth rate of 301 percent.

For the third year, Broad Sky Networks, a business-class wireless provider helping businesses to deploy managed cellular LTE wireless solutions for primary Internet, business continuity, and IoT connectivity, was named on the Inc. 5000 list. This year, Broad Sky ranked No. 1717, placing them in the top third of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The Inc. List represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment—its independent small businesses. Microsoft, Dell, Domino’s Pizza, Pandora, Timberland, LinkedIn, Yelp, Zillow, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“Broad Sky Networks is proud to be named to the Inc. 5000 list for the third year in a row and honored to work with dedicated employees and partners focused on our vision and sustained revenue growth,” says Mike Mudd, Broad Sky, Founder and CEO. “We value the Inc. 5000 award as a testament to our passion for customer service and our commitment to delivering the best in Managed Wireless Solutions. We’re also excited that TechLink Services https://www.techlinksvc.net, a Broad Sky sister company, ranked in the Inc. 5000 for the last five years. Our team work, customer-first, and nothing-is-impossible cultures continue to accelerate our momentum and excitement for future growth.”

Not only have the companies on the 2019 Inc. 5000 (which are listed online at Inc.com, with the top 500 companies featured in the September issue of Inc., available on newsstands August 20) been very competitive within their markets, but the list as a whole shows staggering growth compared with prior lists. The 2019 Inc. 5000 achieved an astounding three-year average growth of 454 percent, and a median rate of 157 percent. The Inc. 5000’s aggregate revenue was $237.7 billion in 2018, accounting for 1,216,308 jobs over the past three years. Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at https://www.inc.com/inc5000.

“The companies on this year’s Inc. 5000 have followed so many different paths to success,” says Inc. editor in chief James Ledbetter. “There’s no single course you can follow or investment you can take that will guarantee this kind of spectacular growth. But what they have in common is persistence and seizing opportunities.” The annual Inc. 5000 event honoring the companies on the list will be held October 10 to 12, 2019, at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. As always, speakers include some of the greatest innovators and business leaders of our generation.

About Broad Sky Networks

Founded in 2003, Broad Sky Networks is a single source for Business Class Wireless Internet Solutions, specializing in 4G LTE and future 5G wireless solutions for Business Continuity, Primary Internet, Temporary Connectivity, Machine to Machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) as well as VSAT Solutions. Broad Sky offers a multi-carrier solution that is seamless to the customer to provide the best service at each location in a single source solution. Broad Sky offers bundled services with the best in breed hardware for a $0 CAPEX package that enables the best technology and performance for any budget. Broad Sky’s M2M platform provides secure, reliable wireless connectivity to mobile and fixed devices with the greatest coverage in the United States and Canada. Broad Sky is a proven leader in Wireless solutions earning them a spot on the Inc 5000 list in 2017, 2018, and 2019 and ranked on the MSP 501 list in 2019. To reach Broad Sky call (877) 291-9575, e-mail sales(at)broadskynetworks(dot)net or follow us on linked in at https://www.linkedin.com/company/broad-sky-networks.

More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000 Methodology

The 2019 Inc. 5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2015 and 2018. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2015. They had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2018. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2015 is $100,000; the minimum for 2018 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Companies on the Inc. 500 are featured in Inc.’s September issue. They represent the top tier of the Inc. 5000, which can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000. About Inc. Media Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures, Inc. is the only major brand dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies, with the aim to deliver real solutions for today’s innovative company builders. Inc. took home the National Magazine Award for General Excellence in both 2014 and 2012. The total monthly audience reach for the brand has been growing significantly, from 2,000,000 in 2010 to more than 20,000,000 today. For more information, visit www.inc.com. The Inc. 5000 is a list of the fastest-growing private companies in the nation. Started in 1982, this prestigious list has become the hallmark of entrepreneurial success. The Inc. 5000 Conference & Awards Ceremony is an annual event that celebrates the remarkable achievements of these companies. The event also offers informative workshops, celebrated keynote speakers, and evening functions.

Want ‘everywhere internet’? Get Bandwidth Aggregation – Dedicated-as-a-Service (BaDaaS)

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In today’s world, high-speed internet connectivity – especially wireless internet – is no longer the exception, it’s the rule. Businesses require ultra-fast, reliable broadband services for running point-of-sale, digital signage, and other critical cloud-based apps. On top of being central to daily operations, think about the last time you were in a retail store, corporate event, or even a dentist office? They probably had ‘guest Wi-Fi’ available. People now expect guest wireless internet just about everywhere they go. It’s part of companies’ broader strategies to build loyalty and deliver exceptional customer experiences. One recent study by iGR suggests that small retail businesses offering guest Wi-Fi see increases in foot traffic, time spent on-premise, and an increase in the amount customers spend. Sounds great, right?

Challenges with ‘everywhere internet’

So, what’s the downside? The growing trend on ‘everywhere internet’ is putting pressure on businesses to rethink how they address bandwidth needs. For example, when it comes to procuring and managing the internet, having multiple store locations or temporary internet needs each present their own set of unique challenges. Companies often have to work with numerous regional internet carriers to procure coverage, and it can take weeks or months to set up and deploy. From an administrative and management standpoint, having multiple carriers means there are several vendors, invoices, and schedules to juggle as well. Companies also have to aggregate several internet connections together for reliability, which requires specialized skills and bandwidth aggregation equipment. These factors add complexity, which can cause delays and unexpected downtime for businesses.

The solution? Bandwidth Dedication-as-a-Service (BaDaaS)

Luckily deploying reliable, secure high-speed internet is getting simpler and less costly with innovative as-a-service options from Broad Sky Networks. Broad Sky is now offering an internet service that uses channel bonding of multiple wireless frequencies to create one high-speed internet connection. No matter the location, Broady Sky’s managed BaDaaS solution uses bonded technology across carriers for temporary deployments, or for high-speed primary or failover connections. Let’s review the biggest benefits of as-a-service bandwidth aggregation:

 

  • Dedicated connections – Broad Sky leverages dedicated connections because they offer a high and predictable rate of data throughput and provide low delays in data transmission or latency.

 

  • Available anywhere – Often remote or off-site events – concerts, festivals, airplane hangers, construction sites, food trucks, etc. – can’t get fast enough dedicated internet speeds from a single provider. As-a-service channel bonding takes the headache out of bringing together multiple connections. The bonded technology can use connections from up to four carriers, for ultimate reliability virtually anywhere.

 

  • Ultra-fast business-grade – By bringing together multiple internet frequencies gives users access to fast and highly-stable internet at all times. An example includes bonding one Verizon LTE-A circuit (25/15) to one AT&T LTE-A circuit (32/12) delivering speeds of 50 to 200 MB at each internet site. User often source the fastest available unlimited wired circuit and use LTE-A to augment speeds.

 

  • Immediate deployment – Whether it is an event deadline or a company is opening a new retail location, businesses need reliable internet from day one. Broady Sky Network’s BaDaaS solution can be deployed in less than two weeks and installed using a single box on-premise.

  • Built for business

  • Are your customers facing unique internet connectivity challenges? Talk to Broad Sky Networks! We can help you speak to your customers about how one high-speed internet connection, using channel bonding and BaDaaS, can meet their goals. With BaDaaS, you’ll be the hero and they’ll have peace of mind knowing they have dedicated, secure internet to support all their cloud applications – when and wherever they need it. Let’s do this!

Business continuity and failover – Can you afford to get it wrong?

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Today’s enterprise networks are being pushed way beyond their intended limits. Mobility capabilities are now a must with more remote workers requiring always-on access to cloud-based applications. Broadband connectivity and network infrastructure also need to support a growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and to handle the constant flow of data between sensors, corporate data centers, and big data applications. Branch offices, digital signage, and fleet vehicles also require constant connectivity. In short, MPLS, traditional virtual private networks (VPNs), and other wired legacy network infrastructures can’t keep pace with the demands of the modern business.

 

The pathway to 5G – Introducing Gigabit LTE

In this environment, how can businesses connect people, places, and things in a way that’s simplified and cost-effective? Today, the answer is clear with Gigabit LTE. Gigabit LTE provides more than just blistering speeds – it’s the evolution of mobile connectivity and it’s an ideal counterpart to next-gen WAN networks. Because 5G is currently available only available in a small number of cities, Gigabit LTE is a new router technology and service that makes wireless WANs a reality for businesses today, while 5G networks are being built.

 

It is ideal for startups, growing SMBs, and large enterprises because it has more than enough bandwidth to support unified communications, video conferencing, collaboration tools, and the other data-hungry applications users demand. Checkout Gigabit LTE benefits:

  • Faster speeds and low latency – Gigabit LTE provides a new level of speed, delivering ultra-low latency and peak upload/download speeds of up to 150Mbits/sec and 1.0Gbits/sec
  • Simplified branch connectivity at a lower cost – Organizations with multiple branches across several regions can deploy a nationwide network, relying on cellular carriers partnerships, instead of procuring wired internet from dozens of ISPs
  • Seamless access to cloud-based apps – Gigabit LTE provides pervasive connectivity and reliability for branch offices and mobile employees, giving them blazing fast, no-wait access to critical cloud-based apps
  • Shorter setup time – Instead of waiting weeks or months for providers to procure wired broadband, cellular-based connectivity is available very quickly
  • Business continuity – Used as a secondary network source, Gigabit LTE protects against flood, cut fiber or cable lines, or other issues. Down wired connections won’t impact workers on mobile devices connected via Gigabit LTE

Exploring Gigabit LTE routers

WAN networking provider Cradlepoint is already offering Gigabit LTE routers as a  critical component to the pathway to 5G. The router is targeted at enterprises using AT&T services and is designed to fill the gap until the full-scale build-out of 5G. 5G, gigabit-class LTE routers work by using multiple new technologies including carrier aggregation, 4X4 multiple-input and multiple output (MIMO), and 256 Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM). (Source: Trusted Reviews).

  • Carrier aggregation – This Gigabit LTE technology enables mobile networks to ‘widen the number of lanes’ for sending data from a cell tower to the LTE-enabled devices to deliver more speed
  • 256-QAM – This tech essentially enables more data to the device from the cell tower at a single time, relieving congestion on the network and enabling up to 33% faster data connection speeds
  • 4X4 MIMO – This capability improves the efficiency of the network by stacking ‘new lanes’ on top ‘widened data traffic lanes.’ With double the number of antennas, it can also lock on to the strongest and fastest signal available at all times

If you’d like to learn more about Gigabit LTE routers and services, talk to Broad Sky Networks! We can help you make a case for Gigabit LTE today, as a stepping stone to 5G tomorrow. Wow your customers with blazing fast speeds and get help positioning Gigabit LTE as the must-have mobile connectivity source for the modern WAN. Your customers will benefit from a wireless WAN that delivers faster connection speeds, lower latency, and the flexibility to thrive in today’s always-connected, mobile world.  Don’t wait!




Why you should be thinking about Gigabit LTE

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Today’s enterprise networks are being pushed way beyond their intended limits. Mobility capabilities are now a must with more remote workers requiring always-on access to cloud-based applications. Broadband connectivity and network infrastructure also need to support a growing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and to handle the constant flow of data between sensors, corporate data centers, and big data applications. Branch offices, digital signage, and fleet vehicles also require constant connectivity. In short, MPLS, traditional virtual private networks (VPNs), and other wired legacy network infrastructures can’t keep pace with the demands of the modern business.

 

The pathway to 5G – Introducing Gigabit LTE

In this environment, how can businesses connect people, places, and things in a way that’s simplified and cost-effective? Today, the answer is clear with Gigabit LTE. Gigabit LTE provides more than just blistering speeds – it’s the evolution of mobile connectivity and it’s an ideal counterpart to next-gen WAN networks. Because 5G is currently available only available in a small number of cities, Gigabit LTE is a new router technology and service that makes wireless WANs a reality for businesses today, while 5G networks are being built.

 

It is ideal for startups, growing SMBs, and large enterprises because it has more than enough bandwidth to support unified communications, video conferencing, collaboration tools, and the other data-hungry applications users demand. Checkout Gigabit LTE benefits:

 

  • Faster speeds and low latency – Gigabit LTE provides a new level of speed, delivering ultra-low latency and peak upload/download speeds of up to 150Mbits/sec and 1.0Gbits/sec

  • Simplified branch connectivity at a lower cost – Organizations with multiple branches across several regions can deploy a nationwide network, relying on cellular carriers partnerships, instead of procuring wired internet from dozens of ISPs

  • Seamless access to cloud-based apps – Gigabit LTE provides pervasive connectivity and reliability for branch offices and mobile employees, giving them blazing fast, no-wait access to critical cloud-based apps

  • Shorter setup time – Instead of waiting weeks or months for providers to procure wired broadband, cellular-based connectivity is available very quickly

  • Business continuity – Used as a secondary network source, Gigabit LTE protects against flood, cut fiber or cable lines, or other issues. Down wired connections won’t impact workers on mobile devices connected via Gigabit LTE

 

Exploring Gigabit LTE routers

WAN networking provider Cradlepoint is already offering Gigabit LTE routers as a  critical component to the pathway to 5G. The router is targeted at enterprises using AT&T services and is designed to fill the gap until the full-scale build-out of 5G. 5G, gigabit-class LTE routers work by using multiple new technologies including carrier aggregation, 4X4 multiple-input and multiple output (MIMO), and 256 Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM). (Source: Trusted Reviews).

 

  • Carrier aggregation – This Gigabit LTE technology enables mobile networks to ‘widen the number of lanes’ for sending data from a cell tower to the LTE-enabled devices to deliver more speed

  • 256-QAM – This tech essentially enables more data to the device from the cell tower at a single time, relieving congestion on the network and enabling up to 33% faster data connection speeds

  • 4X4 MIMO – This capability improves the efficiency of the network by stacking ‘new lanes’ on top ‘widened data traffic lanes.’ With double the number of antennas, it can also lock on to the strongest and fastest signal available at all times

 

The future of the enterprise network starts today

If you’d like to learn more about Gigabit LTE routers and services, talk to Broad Sky Networks! We can help you make a case for Gigabit LTE today, as a stepping stone to 5G tomorrow. Wow your customers with blazing fast speeds and get help positioning Gigabit LTE as the must-have mobile connectivity source for the modern WAN. Your customers will benefit from a wireless WAN that delivers faster connection speeds, lower latency, and the flexibility to thrive in today’s always-connected, mobile world.  Don’t wait!




Why Wireless? Why Now?

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As 4G LTE wireless connectivity – and now 5G – continues to get faster and more reliable, wireless services have evolved from trusty sidekick to full-on superhero status. CradlePoint’s 2019 State of WAN Study hits this point home: 52% of respondents report using LTE for primary connectivity and 48% use LTE for backup solutions. (Source: CradlePoint). Part of the reason for the greater adoption of wireless comes from the fact that employees are now more mobile than ever. Not only that, cloud-based apps and Internet of Things (IoT) devices are proliferating to the point where enterprises require constant connectivity. There’s increased pressure to deliver reliable 24/7 connections on more flexible and adaptable networks. Regardless of the industry they’re in, organizations need the ability to easily connect people, places, and things in a way that’s cost-effective and flexible, even in challenging environments – and 4G LTE wireless is delivering in a big way.

4G LTE in action

Today, 4G LTE is seamlessly providing connectivity for the branch, mobile, and IoT deployments. Wireless LTE is fast becoming a trusted WAN source, providing high-performing and reliable connections that are also scalable. Let’s look at innovative ways businesses are leveraging wireless services and how partners can help their clients succeed.

  • Backup connections – It used to be that companies relied on DSL or ISDN connections for failover protection at primary and branch offices. Now for MPLS failover, wireless WAN backup is outperforming old analog copper lines as a trusted backup network solution. As a backup solution, a wireless WAN generally includes a second network interface for remote routers to access if the primary link is down or unavailable. Branch offices are turning to 4G LTE as a backup solution to run critical Point of Sale (POS) applications, ATMs, digital signage, security cameras, laptops, and more. And, wireless as backup continues to grow in popularity. In fact, the CradlePoint WAN study tells us that 62% of survey respondents plan to increase their LTE usage in the deployment of WAN solutions in the next three years. Most predict this trend to accelerate as Gigabit LTE and 5G and mobile services expand as well.

  • Primary connections –  In addition to serving as a rock-solid backup solution, 4G networks are also gaining traction as a primary connectivity source. For mobile deployments such as emergency vehicles, police cruisers, fire trucks, buses, and service trucks, 4G wireless is an ideal choice for highly-reliable and cost-effective internet access. The cellular-based services are providing constant connectivity needed for GPS, sensors, telematics, surveillance cameras, WiFi, and other mission-critical applications. Always-on 4G powered WAN links are also running large-scale IoT deployments, giving organizations the ability to collect critical sensor data from remote sites and streamlining operations to reduce costs across.

For companies that require internet at remote locations, or temporary sites, 4G is an attractive option as well because businesses don’t have to run cable or other wiring. Unlike conventional primary WAN links from service providers that can take months to provision and deploy at times, 4G LTE can be ‘switched on’ almost immediately. It’s also a much cleaner and simpler solution when dealing with multi-tenant spaces, where it’s challenging to gain permission from landlords or others to install conventional T1 lines, for example.

Hold tight! It’s going to be a wild ride

The accelerated pace of wireless adoption shows no signs of slowing down. As business agility becomes a must-have for enterprises, businesses need smarter ways to keep people, places, and things connected at all times. Unfortunately, MPLS and legacy wired networks just can’t keep pace. Wireless WANs and enterprise-grade LTE solutions, on the other hand, are an obvious choice for companies that want to meet their ‘always connected’ goals while keeping cost and complexity down.

Want to learn more about managed wireless services? Or learn how you can help your customers get the optimal wireless solutions for their business? Talk to Broad Sky Networks! We’re ready to help you sell premium wireless LTE solutions and prepare for the rapid growth in the LTE market: Gigabit LTE – 5G. Let’s do this!




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!

Getting Ready for 5G – What you Need to Know

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5G is no longer future tech. Commercial 5G phone networks and 5G-enabled smartphones will be rolling out in 2019. (Source: ZDNet). But with 4G wireless still getting faster, why is the industry already jumping into the 5G fire? In a word, data. Research from IDC tells us that currently, more than 5 billion consumers interact with data every day. By 2025, analysts predict that number will be 6 billion, or 75 percent of the world’s population. (Source: IDC). 5G mobile data connectivity promises to keep up with our insatiable demand for data. 5G and fiber-based connectivity promise unbelievably faster broadband speeds, but even more importantly this next-gen mobile connectivity will have enough capacity to support users, regardless of how many people are connecting at the same time. Commercial 5G networks will run on a new high-spectrum band, which uses higher frequency signals than 4G. The previously inaccessible high-frequency band was dormant, prior, because of high costs and government regulations. The newly opened 5G band consists of millimeter radio waves between 30 and 300 GHz. The new band means that 5G networks will be much less congested than current 4G networks, which is critical. In some major cities today, users are already experiencing slowdowns during the busiest times of day (mainly during evening hours).

In addition to increased capacity on the network, 5G signals will also deliver much faster broadband speeds, reaching multi-gigabit level speeds. In metropolitan areas, those numbers would equate to 5G speeds that are consistently above 750 Mbps. For those businesses and individuals that reside in the city that’s great, but it’s also good news for users in rural areas in the US. Carriers predict that even those in remote locations should expect faster internet service with 5G. For example, with 5G even ‘one-bar signals’ would be faster than traditional 4G services showing ‘four bars.’ If these breakthroughs sound exciting to you, check out these additional benefits and network characteristics expected in the 5G era.

  • Ending the battle between Wi-Fi vs. LTE – ‘Always connected’ is here. Even more, than supercharging broadband speeds and increasing data capacity, another 5G contribution is that it will unite wireless, wireline, and satellite services under a common structure – ending the battle between Wi-Fi or cellular connections. Imagine a world where we no longer hunt for a Wi-Fi signal in a coffee shop or restaurant to ‘save our data’ and then switching over to our LTE cellular signals when no Wi-Fi is available? Instead, we’ll seek 5G always. Eventually, all devices will run on the 5G ‘new radio’ or NR standard, opening up an era of truly always-connected mobility.
  • A growing opportunity for resellers and VARs – 5G signals can’t travel as far as current 4G signals, so there’s a need to establish a higher number of access points closer together, which will add to the complexity of designing and constructing 5G networks. So when it comes to providing dedicated indoor coverage for buildings, there will be significant opportunities opening up in the market for VARs and systems integrators to meet this demand. Building owners and businesses will be turning to these technology partners to develop networks which are cost-effective and can support multiple operators. Large venues, like stadiums and airports, will make moves to create their own networks, which will be designed to be shared by various operators. Sometimes called a ‘neutral host’ the idea is these networks will enable a venue to own the network, and open it up to many different operators to supply connectivity.
  • Realizing Internet of Things (IoT) potential – 5G is expected to slash data delays from an average of about 100-200 milliseconds with 4G, to 1 millisecond or less. Because of these latency improvements, mobile connectivity becomes always-on, ultra-reliable, and ultra-secure. As a result, devices and sensors that need instant connections, such as IoT deployments, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication or Industrial IoT (IIoT) will thrive in a 5G world. This might include sites with a high volume of connected devices like manufacturing plants, mining and oil operations, or shipping ports. Further, 5G can also be configured to manage different types of devices, applications, and traffic in specific ways. For example, 5G networks can push through mission-critical devices so that they keep operating, being prioritized ahead of others, even if there’s a network disruption.

Your future looks bright

The gradual shift to 5G in 2019 and beyond is expected to forever change the way we interact with technology. Lightning-fast speeds, incredibly low latency, and the capacity to carry massive numbers of connections simultaneously will engrain technology into our daily lives even more. More than that, the shift to 5G is also an absolute necessity if we want to continue to rely on mobile connectivity. Carriers are essentially running out of LTE capacity in many metro areas, and 5G opens up new routes and capacity to carry that data, adding vast amounts of spectrum in bands that have not been used for commercial broadband traffic previously.

As we get closer to full-scale 5G development and adoption the buzz around its potential to drive business transformation will continue to expand. If you want help demystifying the 5G hype from reality, and you’d like to learn more about what 5G services are available today, and what’s coming, talk to Broad Sky Networks! We can help you map out a smart and sustainable 5G wireless plan and position you to take advantage of new profitable opportunities available. Don’t wait!

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.