Sector Intelligence: Enterprise LAN and Campus NaaS Developments

This brief highlights significant developments in enterprise wired and wireless LAN and Campus NaaS vendors over the past month.

This brief covers recent announcements from various companies, including launches of new solutions, enhancements in connectivity technologies, and partnerships aimed at improving services across multiple sectors.

Calix Recognition for Community-Focused Innovation

Calix, Inc. secured the 11th position on Fast Company's 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies within the enterprise sector. This recognition underscores Calix's focus on empowering broadband service providers (BSPs) to enhance their profitability in community broadband services.

In recent years, Calix has transitioned from a hardware provider to a comprehensive cloud and software platform, investing $1.3 billion over 13 years. This shift allows customers to differentiate themselves in the broadband market. The Calix Broadband Platform and SmartLife managed services enable BSPs to evolve into broadband experience providers (BXPs), thereby expanding their offerings beyond residential broadband.

ALE's Private 5G Solution Advancement

Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise (ALE) announced a new Private 5G solution, developed in partnership with Celona. This solution aims to improve connectivity in complex environments while integrating with existing networking offerings for high-speed, secure connections across industrial settings.

The Private 5G solution targets industries including manufacturing and logistics, providing reliable service for applications demanding low latency and robust security. Features include Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) authentication and MicroSlicing technology, focusing on optimal performance based on user needs.

Semtech Enhances AirLink Router

Semtech Corporation announced the enhancement of its AirLink XR60 5G Router by adding support for Anterix’s 900 Megahertz (MHz) private spectrum. This aims to improve connectivity specifically for energy and utility sectors, crucial for maintaining grid stability and operational continuity.

The router now operates on Anterix's standardized Band 106, facilitating security and efficiency in utility communication networks. Semtech plans to offer trial units by mid-2025, with a commercial launch expected in the fall.

Digi International's Device Management Updates

Digi International has introduced updated versions of Digi Navigator alongside the Digi Connect EZ device equipped with Power over Ethernet (PoE). These updates simplify deployment and management processes for IT teams overseeing various devices.

The enhancements include faster setup and broader compatibility, while Digi Connect EZ allows power and data to flow over a single cable. Brian Kirkendall, Vice President and General Manager of Infrastructure Management at Digi International, emphasized the role of customer feedback in shaping these updates.

Auvik Expands IT Management Features

Auvik announced new capabilities prioritizing automation and monitoring tailored for IT teams. These updates focus on Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) management and endpoint visibility, aiming to streamline operations.

New features include SaaS Automation and License Optimization, which strengthen security while managing applications like Google Workspace and Microsoft O365. Auvik also enhances visibility into end-user devices across distributed networks, aiming to provide comprehensive insights into service performance.

Huawei Collaborates with UNESCO on Educational Connectivity

Huawei, in collaboration with UNESCO and the Kenyan government, completed Phase II of the DigiSchool project, connecting 21 schools to the Internet. This project aligns with Kenya’s Digital Superhighway Agenda to enhance connectivity across schools.

At the recent announcement event, officials highlighted the importance of internet access in promoting educational outcomes, particularly for special educational needs schools. The initiative has implications for remote learning and enriches educational management in the affected areas.

Nokia's Launch of the DAC Marketplace

Nokia introduced the Discretionary Access Control (DAC) Marketplace, which allows industrial enterprises to access a range of digital solutions, including offerings from third-party merchants. The platform aims to simplify the integration of Industry 4.0 solutions.

Seven new merchants joined the DAC Marketplace, thereby enhancing the solutions available to support private wireless networks. Nokia plans to showcase the marketplace at Hannover Messe 2025.

GIGABYTE Introduces B760 GEN5 Motherboards

GIGABYTE has launched its B760 GEN5 series motherboards featuring PCI Express (PCIe) 5.0 support. These motherboards are designed to enhance gaming performance and support the latest NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards.

Key features include a focus on thermal management and user-friendly installation processes. The motherboards are set to be available in mid-April 2025.

Boingo Wireless Recognized for Airport Connectivity

Boingo Wireless received recognition from Ookla for its airport connectivity solutions, particularly at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The analysis highlighted the effectiveness of combined 5G and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) technologies for improving wireless performance.

Boingo's network supports over 130 major airports, ensuring fast connectivity for both travelers and operational needs. Key figures from Boingo emphasized their commitment to maintaining quality and efficiency in airport wireless solutions.

Conclusion

This brief reflects key updates and strategic advancements made by notable vendors in the enterprise wired and wireless Local Area Network (LAN) and Campus Network as a Service (NaaS) sectors over the past month. Readers are encouraged to explore the linked sources for more detailed information on each development.

1. Calix ranks 11th on Fast Company's 2025 list of innovative companies
   CEO Michael Weening highlighted Calix's commitment to innovation in broadband services contributing to community growth.
2. ALE introduces Private 5G solution powered by Celona for enhanced connectivity
   Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise launched a Private 5G solution with Celona to enhance connectivity across complex environments and industries.
3. Semtech enhances AirLink XR60 router with Anterix's private spectrum
   Semtech's AirLink XR60 5G router now supports Anterix’s 900 MHz private spectrum, enhancing connectivity for energy networks.
4. Digi International announces upgrades to Digi Navigator and Digi Connect EZ with PoE
   Digi International has released an upgraded Digi Navigator and Digi Connect EZ with PoE, focusing on simplifying device management.
5. Auvik enhances IT automation and monitoring capabilities for teams and MSPs
   Auvik enhances automation and monitoring tools for IT teams, focusing on SaaS management and endpoint visibility.
6. Auvik announces new capabilities in IT automation and monitoring
   Auvik adds SaaS automation, endpoint network monitoring, and server monitoring to enhance visibility and control for IT teams.
7. Huawei and UNESCO complete Kenya DigiSchool Project
   Huawei, UNESCO, and the Kenyan government completed Phase II of the DigiSchool project, connecting 21 schools to the Internet.
8. Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise launches Private 5G solution powered by Celona for enterprise connectivity
   ALE's integration of Private 5G enhances performance and reliability for enterprise-grade connectivity in outdoor and industrial spaces.
9. Lantronix launches Open-Q 8550CS System-on-Module for Edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications
   Lantronix launches the Open-Q 8550CS System-on-Module for industrial Edge AI applications, featuring Qualcomm's QCS8550 processor.
10. Lantronix launches new Open-Q 8550CS System-On-Module designed to meet the needs of Edge AI computing
    Lantronix expands its offerings with the Open-Q 8550CS, designed for various industrial applications in AI and Edge computing.
11. Nokia launches DAC Marketplace for industrial enterprises
    Nokia enhances industrial solutions access with the launch of the DAC Marketplace.
12. Nokia launches DAC Marketplace for industrial enterprises
    Nokia aims to foster an open ecosystem with its DAC Marketplace, providing a range of ready-to-deploy industrial solutions.
13. GIGABYTE launches B760 GEN5 series motherboards with PCIe 5.0 support
    GIGABYTE launches B760 GEN5 motherboards with PCIe 5.0 support for enhanced gaming performance featuring NVIDIA and AMD card compatibility.
14. Boingo Wireless receives recognition for airport connectivity from Ookla
    Boingo Wireless receives recognition from Ookla for its airport connectivity, particularly at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
15. Nokia launches DAC Marketplace to support industrial enterprises
    Nokia has launched the DAC Marketplace, allowing industrial enterprises access to diverse digital transformation solutions.
16. Calix ranked 11th on Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies list
    Calix empowered broadband service providers to succeed, making significant strides in community impact and innovation.
17. ALE launches Private 5G solution powered by Celona to expand Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity
    Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise has introduced a Private 5G solution powered by Celona to enhance industrial connectivity.