Waves with Wireless Nerd
Join me for a weekly look into what's making waves in tech and the wireless industry! What's new? What's now? What's next?
Episodes
The wireless world never stops evolving, and in this episode, Drew Lentz takes us on a journey through the latest developments across multiple technology frontiers. Starting with Apple's intriguing N1 chip introduction, Drew explores what this means for wireless communications and sparks a fascinating discussion about whether Apple might resurrect their once-popular Airport routers. Could this custom silicon be t...
The telecommunications landscape is undergoing a seismic shift as major players consolidate their hold on crucial spectrum assets. AT&T's stunning $23 billion acquisition of Echo Star's spectrum holdings grants them control of valuable 600 MHz low-band frequencies—airwaves that travel farther and penetrate buildings better than higher frequencies. Meanwhile, SpaceX's $17 billion purchase of Echo Sta...
Ever wonder what happens when you need to provide Wi-Fi for half a million surfing fans? Drew Lentz returns to the Waves Podcast after an exhilarating stint deploying 27 access points at the World Surf League's US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach. Between coordinating connectivity for food trucks, security teams, merchants, and celebrity appearances, the wireless challenges were as massive as the waves.
Fresh from his first trip to Australia, Drew Lentz dives into the evolving landscape of wireless networking with observations that span from down under to the stratosphere. The Melbourne adventure yielded more than just kangaroo sightings and chicken "parmies" – it showcased how different regions approach connectivity challenges with innovative solutions.
The industry continues its dramatic reshuffl...
The wireless networking landscape is witnessing a dramatic shift as revealed in the newly released 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure. Juniper Networks has emerged as the clear frontrunner, claiming the coveted top-right position with superior marks for both execution capability and strategic vision. Meanwhile, longtime industry leader Cisco shows signs of strategic drift ...
The future of networking isn't about whether AI will transform our industry—it's about how quickly professionals will adapt to these inevitable changes. In this candid discussion, Drew Lentz unpacks the major developments from recent industry events, particularly Cisco Live, where AI dominated conversations across the vendor landscape.
AI Canvas, Cisco's entry into agentic AI, signals a pivotal...
The wireless landscape is transforming before our eyes as major players consolidate, edge computing pushes boundaries, and questions of affordability continue to challenge our assumptions about connectivity. Charter's $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications is reshaping the competitive landscape, combining Charter's 10+ million mobile subscribers with Cox's commercial fiber and managed IT operat...
Recent funding cuts to digital equity programs threaten to deepen the digital divide in America, just as communities were preparing for infrastructure improvements that would bring connectivity to underserved areas. These decisions impact rural residents, small ISPs, and equipment manufacturers who were counting on these opportunities.
• $2.5 billion in digital equity funding labeled "racist and illegal&...
The Wi-Fi Now Conference in Mountain View showcased innovations in wireless technology while revealing insights about Wi-Fi 7's enterprise adoption challenges. AT&T's partnership with Helium Network for Wi-Fi offload utilizing Hotspot 2.0 and Passpoint technology marks a significant advancement in carrier-independent network collaboration.Â
• Helium Network and AT&T partnering to provide Wi-...
The digital world demands our attention as both wireless professionals and responsible individuals navigating increasingly complex technology landscapes. Drew Lentz dives into this fascinating territory, balancing nostalgic wireless technologies with cutting-edge innovations that challenge how we think about connectivity.
The episode kicks off with exciting news about upcoming giveaways, including a professio...
After a brief hiatus to recalibrate and refocus, Waves makes its triumphant return with fresh energy and a clear vision for the future of wireless networking coverage. This restart episode lays the groundwork for an exciting year ahead, powered by new sponsorships and a commitment to delivering the most valuable wireless industry insights to our community.
The podcast welcomes two major sponsors who are trans...
WLPC 2025 prepares to welcome wireless professionals for an exciting week of learning, networking, and technological exploration. Attendees will engage in bootcamps, insightful sessions, and community-building activities, making it a must-attend conference in the industry.Â
• Overview of WLPC and its significance in the wireless communityÂ
• Details on immersive bootcamps offered at the conferenceÂ
• ...
The latest episode dives into the technological highlights and insights from CES and NRF, revealing how innovations in wireless technology and AI are shaping the future. Listeners can expect discussions on groundbreaking products, the impact of AI on retail, and the upcoming role of Wi-Fi HaLow technology.
• Recap of key highlights from CES and NRF - What I saw and why I think it matters!
• Introduction o...
CES is a massive showcase of technology that can be intimidating for first-time attendees - luckily I've been going for over a decade! This episode dives into navigating the event with practical tips, insights on the layout, strategies for exploring various halls, and how to discover both big brands and innovative startups.
• Exploring the CES layout and its main areasÂ
• Importance of the South Hall...
Ready to witness the wireless revolution of 2024? Join me, Drew Lentz, as I navigate through a year brimming with technological breakthroughs and pivotal industry shifts. You'll uncover how CBRS has transformed into a linchpin for full-stack solutions and the unstoppable rise of private wireless networks. This year, the tech world was buzzing with excitement at events like CES and the National Retail Federation, ...
Is the future of wireless technology at risk of over-the-air hackers, or are we on the brink of a revolution that will outsmart them? Join us as we uncover how Wi-Fi is transforming communities, with a firsthand account of deploying network solutions in Occidental, California, to boost connectivity for first responders. As we look towards CES and NRF, explore how these innovations are setting the stage for a safer, mo...
Stepping into new roles always comes with a mix of excitement and challenges, and I'm thrilled to share my latest adventure as a Senior Solutions Architect with Amazon's Eero. You'll catch a glimpse of my journey into the vibrant world of wireless access points and mesh networks and get a sneak peek at the tech events like AWS re:Invent and CES that I can’t wait to be part of. Let’s not forget a nod to ...
Unlock the secrets of decentralized connectivity with Mario Di Dio, the General Manager of Network at Nova Labs / Helium, as we explore the groundbreaking journey of the Helium Network. Discover how Helium's innovative approach to creating a decentralized wireless network allows individuals to share their internet connections and earn Helium tokens. Starting from a focus on IoT innovation with LoRaWAN technology,...
Ever wondered how a court ruling could reshape the landscape of technology in education? Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, as I unpack the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision that shakes the foundations of the Universal Service Fund. This isn't just a legal matter—it's a critical issue for K-12 schools and libraries nationwide who depend on affordable tech access through the E-rate program. We reflect ...
Does your smartphone rely on Mobile Coverage or Wi-Fi for almost all of its data needs? Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, on a journey through a week packed with family fun and cutting-edge tech insights. From DJing at a kids' party to crafting a homecoming float, my week was about more than just entertainment—it was also about bridging the gap between Wi-Fi and carrier networks with exciting innovations at...
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