Episodes

  • Beach Escapades and Tech Revelations: Unpacking Cisco Live's Missed Insights, Juniper in Vegas, HPE's 5G Revolution, and More!
    Jun 10 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    What happens when you mix California adventures with the latest in networking technology? It's Waves from the Waves!! I broadcast from the picturesque Crystal Pier in San Diego, reflecting on this year's Cisco Live event that I missed. While I was busy exploring Legoland and cheering for the Padres, I gathered some intriguing insights from friends and colleagues about Cisco's focus on AI and its integration with NVIDIA chipsets. But what does it truly mean to "make AI work for you"? We'll unravel this mystery and discuss the overall vibe of the event, which seemed to lack its usual spark.

    But that's not all. The real show-stopper came from HPE, with a groundbreaking announcement that could reshape the future of 5G technology. Just before Cisco Live, HPE revealed their integration of AthoNet into HPE Aruba networking, setting the stage for a revolution in IoT, Wi-Fi, and sensor components. Additionally, I touch on how much I miss Jussi and Jim Florwick. Don't miss this episode as we unpack these major developments and ponder what might have been missed at Cisco Live.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    14 mins
  • Exploring Wireless Innovations, Strategic Acquisitions, and the Future of Network Performance from Wireless Global Congress to Cisco Live
    May 29 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, as we dive into the latest from the wireless, Wi-Fi, and tech industries. This episode of Waves kicks off with updates on the Wireless Global Congress by the Wireless Broadband Alliance in Dallas, where an array of brilliant speakers and sessions await. We also spotlight Cisco Live in Las Vegas and Juniper's AI Native Now event, painting a vibrant picture of Las Vegas during Cisco Live week .. is Las Vegas Tech Week going to be a thing? Listen in as we draw parallels to how Miami's Winter Music Conference evolved into a major music event, suggesting a similar trajectory for tech gatherings in Vegas.

    From game-changing acquisitions to cutting-edge innovations, this episode covers pivotal moves in the tech and telecom sectors. We'll discuss HPE's strategic divestment of its Communications Technology Group to HCL Tech, and the promise of wireless solutions advocated to overcome the challenges of the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program. Plus, get the inside scoop on T-Mobile's $4.4 billion acquisition of US Cellular, signaling a wave of consolidation in the telecom industry. We're also looking forward to significant events like Cisco Live, the Wireless Global Congress, and HPE Discover 2024, which promise to bring even more exciting developments.

    Ever wondered about the latest breakthroughs in sound-blocking material or advances in antenna technology? Hear about MIT researchers' revolutionary fabric that could block RF signals, and explore the intriguing advancements showcased at Wi-Fi Now. This episode also brings to light Apple's controversial Wi-Fi positioning system and the alarming use of Wi-Fi jammers by international burglary rings. Finally, join Anil Varanasi as he shares the inspiring journey of building Meter, a company revolutionizing network switching and enhancing network performance and reliability. This episode is packed with insights and innovations that you won't want to miss!

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    28 mins
  • Waves Interview: Revolutionizing Business Networks: Unveiling Meter's Bold Journey Featuring Cutting-Edge Hardware & Software Innovations with Anil Varanasi
    May 29 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    What if the solution to your business's networking challenges lay in the hands of a single, innovative company? Join us for a captivating conversation with Anil Varanasi, Co-Founder and CEO of Meter, as we unravel the decade-long incognito journey of this groundbreaking company. From its humble beginnings focused on software to its bold expansion into hardware production, Anil shares the behind-the-scenes stories of the risks and rewards that shaped Meter's path to success.

    Discover how Meter is capitalizing on the volatile landscape of the networking industry, transforming obstacles into opportunities. Anil reveals the company's unique service-oriented model that prioritizes customer satisfaction over market domination. We shine a spotlight on Meter's cutting-edge LAN and switching technologies, designed to provide unparalleled data and information, reshaping how businesses approach their network infrastructure.

    Get ready to rethink your approach to internet connectivity with insights into Meter's innovative products, including 'Connect'—an intuitive tool that simplifies obtaining WAN connections. Learn how Meter's cloud-based control plane and digital twin architecture offer real-time management and visibility, ensuring seamless integration across thousands of devices. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of networking, offering practical solutions and a glimpse into the future of network systems.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • The Mobility Field Day 11 Wrap-Up: Uncovering the Future of Networking with AI Pioneers and Wireless Giants
    May 21 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    Ever wondered how AI is revolutionizing network management right under our noses? Buckle up as we take you on a journey from the buzzing energy of Mobility Field Day 11 to the heart of wireless industry transformations. The wireless community is aflutter with innovation, and we're at the forefront, dissecting the integration of AI into our work lives with a surprising twist—it's enhancing, not overwhelming. We're also talking an incredible talk by Arista Co-Founder Ken Duda, because what's technology without a human touch? And speaking of personal connections, you'll even hear a special shout-out that reminds us why we're all here—family matters, even in the world of tech.

    Now, let's talk specifics—Marvis AI's growth in addressing complex network queries is nothing short of impressive, and trust me when I say Juniper's real-time RF information has us all talking. But it doesn't stop there; Fortinet's network-as-a-service model and Celona’s leaps in 4G and 5G deployment are reshaping the way industries connect. The cherry on top? Insights from our conversations with the Hamina team and a peek at Ubiquiti's bold moves into the enterprise market. From the nuances of antenna management with Cisco to the 5G deployment updates from the giants of wireless infrastructure, this episode is your all-access pass to the latest in wireless tech trends.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • Navigating Wireless Certification: Interview with Tom Carpenter on the Impact of CWNP's Vendor-Neutral Approach to Networking Expertise
    May 8 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    Discover the wireless certification revolution with me, Drew Lentz, your guide through the dynamic world of networking technology, as I chat with none other than Tom Carpenter. As the CTO at CWNP, he's a true trailblazer in the field, and he's here to share the tale of how vendor-neutral certifications emerged to challenge the status quo, transforming the landscape for professionals everywhere. Journey with us through Tom's personal evolution from e-learning pioneer to study guide author, and grasp the profound influence of the CWNA certification on the industry. We'll uncover the essentials of not just passing exams, but also the indispensable hands-on experience that can only be gained through rigorous training and practice.

    In an era where tech knowledge is power, we'll weigh the merits of vendor-neutral certifications against their vendor-specific counterparts, considering their impact on a comprehensive understanding of wireless systems. Delving into the updates for CWDP and CWAP certifications, we illuminate the pathways for designing and analyzing cutting-edge wireless networks. As we contemplate the future of industry gatherings in the wake of COVID-19, you'll hear insights into the changing dynamics of professional gatherings and the enduring spirit of knowledge-sharing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring techie, this episode offers access to a treasure trove of wireless wisdom, setting you on course for career advancement and success.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • Diving into Old and New Digital Frontiers: Unveiling the Mysteries of Mobility Field Day 11, Exploring AM Radio for Emergency Comms, and Anticipating a Live Tech Interaction
    May 8 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    Prepare to be electrified by the insider knowledge I, Drew Lentz the Wireless Nerd, bring straight from the tech trenches as we prep for Mobility Field Day 11. Get ready for the line-up of heavy hitters like Ubiquiti, Arista, and Cisco, you'll get the kind of peek behind the curtain that only the MFD crew can boast about! I'm excited about the details of Juniper's latest maneuvers and dishing on Fortinet's fresh retail strategies, all while urging you to jump into the digital fray with your most pressing wireless wonders - MFD11 is gonna be awesome! And don't think I've left out those shiny new Apple announcements; we'll dissect the latest iPad's 5G capabilities and lament its Wi-Fi 7 absence together.

    Transmitting from the heart of AM radio debates, hear how I grapple with the static of my own electric truck while discussing the broader implications of emergency communication legislation. Shifting from the airwaves to the furrows, I'll dig into a Tennessee trial that's plowing new ground in agricultural IoT, potentially transforming how we farm with smart tech. Last but not least, gear up for our next episode's live broadcast, where we'll take your engagement to the next level with real-time interaction during Mobility Field Day presentations. Make sure your questions are locked and loaded; this is where the rubber meets the road in the wireless world.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • Connecting the Dots in Tech: Is This a Glimpse of the Future of IoT with Cisco & Kajeet? Dissecting Location Services with 802.11az from HPE Aruba, and Anticipating Mobility Field Day 11
    May 1 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    You'll be on the edge of your seat as we anticipate the innovation showcase at Mobility Field Day 11, which promises to be a playground for tech aficionados with powerhouses like Celona, Juniper and Cisco stepping up to the plate. Meanwhile, we're keeping tabs on the satellite industry's game-changing moves, with SES's bold acquisition of Intelsat setting the stage for an epic showdown in the skies.

    Get ready to explore the merging horizons of Wi-Fi and cellular as we dissect the strategic alliance between Cisco and Kajeet. This dynamic duo is on a quest to revolutionize IoT services, and we're here to map out the journey for you. The synthesis of Kajeet's Sentinel platform with Cisco's network expertise could very well be the blueprint for the future of network management, shaping a world where connectivity knows no bounds. As we delve into this partnership's implications, we're painting a picture of a new era where managing devices across the spectrum is as smooth as silk. But how real is it?

    As we wrap up with finesse, we're turning the spotlight on the precision and promise of location services technologies. From the pinpoint accuracy of Bluetooth 5.1 to the trailblazing potential of the new HPE Aruba Wi-Fi 7 APs, we're dissecting the tech that's setting the standard for everything from personal security to global logistics. HPE Aruba gets a hat tip for their forward-thinking integration of these technologies, and we're here to connect the dots for you. Plus, don't miss out with upcoming insightful banter with Keith Parsons and check the pod for our interview with the planning visionary Payman – it's all happening right here, where the wireless world comes alive.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    30 mins
  • Waves Interview: Sailing Through Cyberspace with Dave Taht's Guide to Bufferbloat
    Apr 23 2024

    Send us a Text Message.

    Have you ever wondered what magic lies behind the seamless flow of your online conversations, or how a tune could tell the tale of tech evolution? Networking virtuoso Dave Taht joins us to unravel the mysteries of internet technology, starting with his pioneering work on the embedded Linux wireless router. Dave, with his knack for making complex topics relatable, takes us back to the early days of the internet, from Fido to Gopher, and breathes new life into Usenet. He tackles Bufferbloat with an accessible funnel analogy, making sense of how data should move to keep our digital interactions smooth. And for an unexpected twist, Dave's fusion of music and technology adds a rhythmic pulse to our discussion, capturing the essence of internet challenges in a way that resonates with both tech veterans and novices.

    In a captivating conversation about the digital world's legacy, we delve into the aftermath of 2008's outdated embedded devices, and the scarcity of expertise in bringing these relics up to speed. Dave sheds light on the unintentional impact BitTorrent had on stirring the network neutrality debate by saturating buffers, which inadvertently highlighted the critical need for smarter network algorithms. We then pivot to the power of firmware revamps via OpenWRT, discussing the transformative potential of updates on bufferbloat, security, and IPv6 integration, despite corporate hesitations. As we conclude, Dave serenades us with a song celebrating SpaceX's achievements, a fitting end that blurs the lines between the once far-fetched dreams of space travel and the unfolding reality of our technological prowess. Join us for an episode where inspiring melodies meet insightful tech talk, all wrapped up in a galactic bow.

    Support the Show.

    Show more Show less
    28 mins