Making the most of your XG Firewall

5G

Article | May 18, 2023

Despite the COVID-induced interruptions in the first half of 2020, 5G preparations and deployment continued in earnest in the second half of 2020 and now the market – vendors, CSPS, OEMs – are ready to bring 5G to the masses of users. The arrival of Apple’s first 5G devices in 4Q20 marked the tipping point of global consumer readiness, now extending from early-adopters. After the initial phase of network launches that saw coverage built-out in major urban centres, 5G service providers should now focus on expanding coverage to as many areas of high-data demand as possible. At the same time, as CSPs gauge their 5G roll-out strategies, they shouldn’t ignore rural areas with limited-to-no high-speed broadband coverage. In many markets, particularly developing ones, CSPs should carefully assess network-sharing as a way to cost-effectively tap pent-up demand, especially given the accelerating remote working trend.

Enterprise Mobility, Mobile Infrastructure

Article | June 16, 2023

Blockchain technology has the potential to transform the way businessesoperate.As a result, it has gained tremendous momentum and is no longer the utopian dream of a few crypto enthusiasts. According to a Deloitte report that surveyed more than 1300 senior executives worldwide, 53% said blockchainin businessis a priority. Also, PwC highlights thatblockchain alone can add $407 billion to the GDP of the USA by 2030. Blockchain is cementing its position in the market and is expected to be worth $163 billion by 2027, according to Statista. The time has come for digital businesses to harness the power of decentralization and incorporate it into their everyday processes. You simplycan’t lose out on the business opportunities that this technology has tooffer simply because you are living under a rock. In this article, we will discuss how using blockchain for business can make a huge difference in your business process. Let’s first begin by looking at the challenges faced by traditional business models. Challenges Traditional Business Models Face A growing business encounters several challenges, and different problems demand different solutions. Mentioned below are some of the challenges that traditional business models often encounter. Time-Consuming Processes In a business operation, all processes function as separate entities. Teams often find themselves looking for, gathering, and analyzing the same data to make decisions. As a result, the teams must rely on a lot of third-party intermediaries to runtheir business processes smoothly. This adds to the time and complexity of the processes.Use of blockchain technology can help to effectively do away with this challenge. Lack of Security Data security is another area of concern that can be taken care ofby storing data on the blockchain. Data that is storedin the cloud or a centralized storage facility, is vulnerable to security breaches. The traditional business ecosystem, data, and stakeholders are unprepared for the considerably more intelligent and ever-changing hackingtechniques. As a result, important and confidential data can get breached and compromised. Payment Barriers Payment transactions are often more complicated, time-consuming, and costly due to the diversity of currencies and parties involved. Blockchain technology promises to make processing payments and other transactions around the world faster, safer, and cheaper by getting rid of the need for mediators like correspondent banks and clearing institutions. Payment barriers are another problem that the adoption of blockchain business models can ease. Shoot-up Your Business Growth with Blockchain Technology Blockchain in business is aiding the transformation of business across industries all around the globe. Blockchain is transforming supply chains, banking and financial services, healthcare, government, retail, and other industries. Here are some statistics that demonstrate blockchain's significance in strengthening industries: The financial sector contributes to around 30% of the market value of blockchain. (Statista) By 2028, the value of blockchain in healthcare will be $1189.8 million. (Vantage Market Research) By 2026, the value of blockchain in agriculture and food will be $1.48 billion. (BIS Research) In 2022, the blockchain market in the manufacturing industry will be worth $85.64 billion. (Globe Newswire) Accelerates Your Business Processes Blockchain is taking a central role in the ongoing digital transformation process. In digital transformation, time is one of the most critical factors that keeps you ahead of the curve. Moreover, business operations that use a blockchain to store and transfer data provide high levels of security. On this basis, you can create completely automated transactions in various business domains. This method is not only dependable and safe, but it is also exceedingly fast. Improves Your Online Security Encryption and validation are two significant advantages of mainstreaming blockchain technology. Every operation and communication that happens online will be encrypted. It protects against data alteration. Due to its distributed nature, you can verify that no one has altered even a bit by checking signatures across all nodes. Blockchain in business will be helpful for storage, private messaging (between companies/clients or friends on social media), safer DNS, and IoT security. Blockchain use in business will enhance cybersecurity, but this transformation won’t happen overnight, it will take years before it impacts the ways in which we use the internet. Eases Online Payments While online transactions are safer than ever, users' data is still at risk. However, this decentralized platform can make payments transparent and tamper-proof in the financial ecosystem. Decentralized blockchain technology protects data. Simply put, it allows you to make payments without a payment processor. Blockchain technology protects financial transactions by removing central points of failure and minimizing errors. This helps in saving time and money. In addition, blockchain technology ensures that transactions remain unaltered and only those involvedcan see the history. A Game-Changer in the Supply Chain & Logistics Anything that can conceive of as a supply chain, blockchain can vastly improve its efficiency - it doesn’t matter if it’s people, numbers, data, money.” - GinniRometty, CEO of IBM. The integration of blockchain simplifies supply chain and logistics work. The blockchain's decentralized nature ensures maximum transparency in every transaction in the supply chain, from raw material purchase and manufacture to distribution and sale of the finished product. At a minimal cost, each transaction can be promptly and readily documented on the blockchain. There are very few risks this way, because the final buyer can track a product's origin along the whole supply chain. Reduces Operational Cost Blockchain-based smart contracts are a boon. Businesses can make and receive online payments through some set guidelines. Brokers, escrow agents, and other intermediaries are excluded through smart contracts. Smart contracts are self-executing programs that safeguard the interests ofall parties. These contracts use unbreakable cryptographic code and automatically implement contract terms. Lastly, smart contracts keep track of all consumer, worker, and stakeholder activities. Many global corporations use smart contracts to perform essential HR and administrative tasks. What Does Blockchain Mean for Entrepreneurs? Blockchain technology is so much more than just a technology used for cryptocurrencies. For a commoner, whenever we talk about blockchain, the first thing they think of is bitcoin or cryptocurrency. However, for businesses and entrepreneurs, blockchain is more than just a cryptocurrency. Let's take a look at the ways in which blockchain technology can empower business leaders. Case Study Blockchaintechnology is being rapidly usedin the logistics industry.The main advantages include higher confidence in the system due to greater transparency, improved product traceability, and cost savings by eliminating manual and paper-based administration. One such example Tradelens, a blockchain-powered open and neutral supply chain network, is one example. It was founded by IBM and Maersk and has expanded to 150 members, including some of the world's largest logistics companies, including CMA CGM, MSC, ONE, and Hapag-Lloyd. In 2020, it claims to have made businesses 15% more efficient by letting them get rid of legacy data systems, manual document processing, and limited visibility. By 2050, it claims to have made them 15% more efficient. Final Thought Blockchain technology is theinevitable future, and its use is no longer restricted to crypto transactions. In the coming years, blockchain development solutions will be used ineCommerce marketplace, peer-to-peer financial transactions, content distribution, healthcare data exchanges, supply chain, and customer services. Blockchain applications are no more the pie-in-the-sky dreams of early adopters. This technology has the potential to revolutionize practically every sector and solve your company's greatest challenges. Smart and strategic use of new technologies, can make your company more secure, transparent, and ready for whatever comes next. FAQ What Is the Impact of BlockchainTechnology on Business Models? Blockchain implementations can minimize transaction costs such as negotiation and search expenses and eliminate intermediary costs. This means that by 2022, blockchain technology is expectedto cut costs in the financial sector by$15–$20. What Is the Size of theBlockchainMarket? The global blockchain market was valued at $1.57 billion in 2018 and is expected to more than triple to 163 billion USD by 2027. What Does BlockchainMean for Business? A blockchain is a digital record of who owns what, and it is constantly updated. The time, date, dollar amount, and participants in a transaction are encrypted into a "block" that is connected to other blocks to create a chain.

5G

Article | September 28, 2023

5G small cells form the backbone of the modern wireless networks. Learn more about this technology is revolutionizing 5G deployment and enabling various use cases across industries in this article. Contents 1 Introduction to 5G Small Cells for Modern Businesses 2 5G Small Cells: Overview 2.1 Characteristics of 5G Small Cells 2.2 How Small Cells Fit into 5G Architecture 3 Benefits of 5G Small Cells for Businesses 3.1 Improved Coverage and Capacity 3.2 Enhanced Network Performance 3.3 Lower Latency 3.4 Cost-effectiveness 4 Use Cases for 5G Small Cells 4.1 Urban Areas 4.2 Rural Areas 4.3 Indoor Environments 5 Conclusion 1 Introduction to 5G Small Cells for Modern Businesses Small cells are low-power radio access nodes that operate in licensed and unlicensed spectrum bands and are typically deployed in areas with high demand for wireless connectivity. They are a vital component of the 5G wireless network architecture and are designed to complement traditional cell towers, providing improved coverage, network capacity, and faster data speeds. Small cells come in several types, including femtocells, picocells, and microcells, and can be deployed according to the use case. 2 5G Small Cells: Overview 2.1 Characteristics of 5G Small Cells 5G small cells are characterized by small form factors and are designed to be compact and discreet for deployment in various settings, such as urban areas, rural areas, indoor environments, and public spaces. In addition, they consume less power than traditional cell towers, making them more energy-efficient. They also operate on high-frequency bands, which enables them to provide faster data speeds and lower latency than traditional cell towers, which makes small cells essential for 5G. The 5G small cell architecture can be deployed in dense networks, providing better coverage and capacity in areas where traditional cell towers may not be able to reach. Also, a 5G small cell antenna can be configured to provide seamless handoffs between cells, ensuring users have a consistent and uninterrupted wireless experience. These characteristics make them ideal for specific 5G use cases, which will be explored further in the article. 2.2 How Small Cells Fit into 5G Architecture Small cells and 5G evolution are closely linked, and this technology is an ideal solution for future wireless networks. They offer greater capacity, coverage, and flexibility than traditional cell towers, allowing them to meet the demands of an increasingly connected world. By operating on high-frequency bands and being deployed in dense networks, small cells in 5G can provide faster data speeds, lower latency, and better coverage than previous generations of wireless networks. Additionally, their small form factor and flexible deployment options allow for use cases like private 5G networks that revolutionize industries. 3 Benefits of 5G Small Cells for Businesses 5G networks will support a massive increase in connected devices, including smartphones, IoT sensors, and other devices. Small cells are critical for achieving the full potential of 5G networks and the exciting new applications and services they will enable. 3.1 Improved Coverage and Capacity 5G small cells offer improved coverage over traditional cell towers in certain situations, particularly in urban areas. Buildings and other obstacles interfere with wireless signals, so the connection quality decreases in areas with such infrastructure. By deploying small cells closer to users, the network can provide better coverage and capacity in these areas. Small cells can also be deployed indoors, providing better coverage and capacity in buildings and other enclosed spaces. This is important due to poor wireless range, signal interference from walls, and other obstacles. By deploying small cells indoors, the network can provide better coverage and capacity in these areas, improving the overall wireless experience for users. 3.2 Enhanced Network Performance The deployment of small cells enables network densification, which allows several devices to connect to the network simultaneously. This can help reduce network congestion and improve overall network performance, particularly in urban areas. They can also be configured to provide seamless handoffs between cells, ensuring that users have a consistent and uninterrupted wireless experience. This is important because users often move between different areas with different coverage levels and capacities, providing a streamlined experience. 3.3 Lower Latency Small cells are designed to operate on high-frequency bands, which enables them to provide faster data speeds and lower latency than prior generations of wireless networks. This is especially important for applications that require real-time communication, such as virtual reality, autonomous vehicles, and remote surgery. By providing faster data speeds and lower latency, small cells can help enhance these applications' performance, providing a better overall user experience. 3.4 Cost-effectiveness Small cells offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional cell towers, particularly in urban areas with high land and real estate costs. By mounting 5G small cell antennas on existing infrastructure, such as lampposts and buildings, deployment costs can be lowered. Additionally, small cells can be deployed in a modular fashion, allowing for targeted and cost-effective expansion based on the required coverage and capacity. This approach avoids large-scale and expensive deployments of new infrastructure. Moreover, small cells can be powered by low-cost, low-power sources like solar panels or batteries, reducing ongoing operational costs. Furthermore, small cells consume less power than traditional cell towers, resulting in lower energy costs. 4 Use Cases for 5G Small Cells 4.1 Urban Areas As discussed previously, small cell radio antennas in 5G can improve networks in dense urban environments, alleviating network congestion and improving data speeds. In addition, by deploying small cells in areas with high user demand, network operators can provide targeted coverage and capacity improvements to specific areas, ensuring that users have fast and reliable connectivity. 4.2 Rural Areas Small cells can be used to extend coverage to underserved or unserved areas by traditional cell towers. They can fill in coverage gaps, providing reliable connectivity to users in rural areas that may not have access to high-quality wireless services. This will enable use cases such as remote workforces in rural areas, smart agriculture, and distance education and training. 4.3 Indoor Environments Traditional cell towers may not be able to provide reliable connectivity indoors due to physical barriers such as thick walls and ceilings. Small cells can provide targeted coverage and capacity to specific areas, such as conference rooms or shopping malls, where users require high-quality wireless connectivity. In addition to improving range, small cells can help alleviate network congestion and improve data speeds in high-traffic indoor environments. 5 Final Thoughts Small cells are a crucial element in developing and implementing 5G technology. By leveraging a small form factor and high-frequency band usage, small cells facilitate the deployment of 5G networks in a more cost-effective and targeted manner than traditional cell towers. They support a wide range of use cases by providing reliable and high-quality wireless connectivity to a growing number of devices. They will continue to be a critical technology for businesses and organizations seeking to leverage the benefits of 5G technology.

Article | April 14, 2020

5G is a little higher at 3.4GHz to 3.6GHz, but that's tiny when you consider that microwaves go up to 300GHz. And visible light comes in at a range of around 430THz to 770THz. That's more than a thousand times higher than the maximum microwave – and 100,000 higher than 5G. Dangerous radiation, like UV rays, X-rays and gamma rays are also far higher up the spectrum still. Early theories suggested 5G could lead to cancer – and now crackpots have linked it to coronavirus too. But it's simply impossible for 5G to cause any of these problems. Radiation damages cells by breaking them apart, but 5G microwaves simply lack the power to do this. 5G is a low-frequency radiation, far below infrared and visible light. In fact, it's essential that 5G is low-frequency, because higher frequencies are less useful at delivering mobile signals over large areas. We know that this level of radiation is safe, because otherwise the visible light from our televisions would have killed us a long time ago.