Send us a text 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 despite maintaining strong execution abilities. Newcomers are ma...
Jul 01, 2025•33 min
Send us a text 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 shift in how networks will be managed going forward. But rather than viewing these adva...
Jun 25, 2025•47 min
Send us a text 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 operations. This merger represents just one piece of the ongoing consolidation puzzle...
May 31, 2025•42 min
Send us a text 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" and eliminated • Senate voted along party lines to kill FCC program distribut...
May 27, 2025•28 min
Send us a text 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. • Helium Network and AT&T partnering to provide Wi-Fi offload for AT&T customers using quality metrics to monitor connection perfor...
May 02, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Send us a text 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 professional-grade NetAlly AirCheck G3. Drew shares a powerful personal moment abo...
Apr 22, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Send us a text 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 transforming connectivity in their own unique ways. Meter brings their innovat...
Apr 18, 2025•30 min
Send us a text 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. • Overview of WLPC and its significance in the wireless community • Details on immersive bootcamps offered at the conference • Importance of networking and building connections • Highlights of key sessions and d...
Feb 13, 2025•30 min
Send us a text 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 of new gaming devices and upcoming products • Exploration of AI advancements a...
Jan 18, 2025•47 min
Send us a text 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 areas • Importance of the South Hall for innovation and sourcing • Highlights from the Central Hall: major exhibitors a...
Jan 02, 2025•18 min
Send us a text 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, where IoT marvels and wireless convergence stole the spotlight. Plus,...
Dec 31, 2024•37 min
Send us a text 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, more connected world. Plus, an upcoming project has us buzzing wit...
Dec 24, 2024•39 min
Send us a text 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 Johnny Cupcakes, a brand that has been a personal favorite, and the inspiring s...
Nov 27, 2024•54 min
Send us a text 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, Helium has grown into a global force with a million hotspots, and is...
Nov 19, 2024•35 min
Send us a text 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 on the wider implications this ruling could have on educational institutio...
Nov 14, 2024•37 min
Send us a text 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 SignalRoam. My visit to Corpus Christi wasn't just about work; it al...
Nov 01, 2024•49 min
Send us a text What if you could revolutionize your wireless network with cutting-edge technology? Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, as I unpack the synergy between NetAlly and Hamina tools, which are changing the game in site surveys and data validation. We'll journey through major industry events like Mobile World Congress America, Wispapalooza, and WLPC Prague, where private cellular networks and 5G innovations from giants like Ubiquiti and Cambium are making waves - but it's Tarana tha...
Oct 16, 2024•37 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how the future of network management is shaping up? Join me, Drew Lentz, your Wireless Nerd, as I recount my exhilarating experience at the Meter Up event in San Francisco, where technological innovation met collaboration in the most vibrant way. We mingled with industry veterans and tech enthusiasts alike. The event, filled with engaging presentations and hands-on technology demonstrations, provided a perfect platform to introduce Meter's groundbreaking technology, ...
Oct 11, 2024•31 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how to set up a wireless network outdoors? Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, as I recount my thrilling 10-day journey from Texas to California, up to Alaska, and back, where I conducted an RF survey and feasibility study for a wireless network deployment. Learn about the critical role of understanding various wireless technologies, from 4G to 5G to Wi-Fi and beyond, to provide an optimal user experience. We'll also explore the essential tools in my go kit that ...
Sep 27, 2024•46 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how private cellular networks are reshaping the wireless landscape? In this captivating episode, we bring in special guest Mark Houtz, a network engineer with deep expertise in cellular and cell technologies, to explore the latest advancements and trends. We celebrate a milestone achievement of reaching 1,000 YouTube subscribers and take you on a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about WiMAX, LTE, and CBRS. Mark shares fascinating insights from his recent projects, ...
Sep 13, 2024•1 hr
Send us a text Get ready to unlock the latest secrets in the wireless world! Can you imagine what a Wi-Fi 7 iPhone 16 could mean for your connectivity? We'll explore this thrilling possibility in our episode, shedding light on how it might change user experiences and network operations. You'll also discover how I stay ahead of the curve using tools like RSS feeds and Inoreader, ensuring you're always in the know about industry shifts. Ever wondered why Verizon is playing it safe with 5G neutral ...
Sep 06, 2024•51 min
Send us a text Discover how tech industry developments are reshaping our world! This episode of the Waves podcast begins with a look back at our special conversation with Meter and Keith, setting the stage for a rich discussion on the future of technology. Celebrate with us as we approach the milestone of 800 subscribers and address pressing issues like Cisco's upcoming job cuts. Tune in as we dive deep into the wireless industry's latest innovations, featuring Skylo's satellite IoT projects and...
Aug 29, 2024•31 min
Send us a text Get ready to unlock the future of networking technology with our guest, Anil Varanasi, CEO of Meter, as we promise to equip you with insights into their groundbreaking advancements in AI and wireless tech. Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, along with special guest, fellow nerd, and friend Keith Parsons, as we explore how Meter is revolutionizing the networking landscape with their introduction of Command - a generative UI product that enables IT and Networking teams to query...
Aug 21, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Send us a text Can AI really shape the future of technology and business? Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, as we tackle this monumental question in our latest episode of Waves. We start by unpacking the whirlwind that was my week, including some exciting developments with Google AdWords and the ongoing Wi-FiStand and SignalRoam initiatives. You'll get the scoop on the viral sensation DeepLiveCam, a groundbreaking software that creates digital doppelgängers, and my take on the pivotal role...
Aug 14, 2024•39 min
Send us a text Ever wondered how T-Mobile's latest moves might reshape your home internet experience? Join me on this episode of "Waves," where we begin with a delightful collaboration between Minecraft and Lush that's sure to add a splash of fun to your bath time. I'll share my excitement and a quick shopping experience before diving into the heart of the episode. You’ll learn all about T-Mobile's strategic leap into the fiber internet market, the implications of the recent court ruling against...
Aug 06, 2024•27 min
Send us a text Is the future of affordable telecommunications in jeopardy? This episode unravels the critical implications of a recent federal appeals court ruling that could disrupt over $2 billion in annual funding for the Universal Service Fund (USF). Join us as we demystify how the USF is funded through telecommunications fees and why its programs, such as the Connect America Fund, the Lifeline program, the Rural Healthcare Program, and the E-rate program, are indispensable for maintaining e...
Jul 26, 2024•9 min
Send us a text Can you imagine a future where you pay to keep your data private? In our latest episode, we unpack Meta's bold new policy in Europe, which allows users to do just that. Join me, Drew Lentz, the Wireless Nerd, as I share how I use old school tech like RSS to stay ahead of the curve with the latest tech news. We then shift our focus to the US Space Force's cutting-edge advancements in satellite jamming—discussing their implications for internet control and national security. The con...
Jul 23, 2024•26 min
Send us a text Are personal and political posts taking over LinkedIn? Join me, Drew Lentz, as I share my thoughts on keeping LinkedIn focused on business rather than personal agendas. We'll zoom in on Sticker Mule’s latest marketing blunder and its surprising reception, then shift gears to a hot topic: net neutrality. Discover the latest developments as the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals halts its implementation pending further review. Plus, get the scoop on the new Starlink Mini, which promises...
Jul 17, 2024•27 min
Send us a text What if a logo could tell an origin story? Join us as we unravel the tale behind the Wireless Nerd brand and its iconic heart logo adorned with Wi-Fi symbols. I share some quirky and frustrating encounters with logo imitators, the exhilarating process of launching our own merchandise store, and the importance of sticking to a weekly podcast schedule even when news is slow. It's a nostalgic and exciting journey that provides a mix of personal insights and community updates. Ever wo...
Jul 10, 2024•28 min
Send us a text Curious about the latest innovation in tech and how it could impact your privacy and connectivity? Join us for a morning chat over coffee as we unpack Apple's iOS 18 and its unique MAC address rotation feature. Based on a recent discussion with an old friend, we'll explore the privacy benefits and potential network connectivity challenges posed by this new feature, and how it might influence the broader industry. Plus, engage with us on social media for your chance to weigh in on ...
Jul 02, 2024•29 min
