Highway 9 Networks launches partner program to boost private 5G

Highway 9 Networks this week launched a program that the mobile cloud provider says will enable enterprise customers to achieve the advantages of private 5G technology.

The Mobile Cloud Alliance Program is aimed at helping customers to more easily integrate and manage existing mobile and network infrastructure components, including end-user devices, gateways, access points, and routers, along with systems from mobile and cloud providers. The goal is to lessen the complexity of integrating multiple elements from various vendors, according to Highway 9 Networks.

“Providing ubiquitous, secure, and high-performance mobile connectivity requires seamless integration and interoperability within enterprise networks,” said Allwyn Sequeira, Highway 9 CEO, in a statement. “Delivering this value is like operating a well-oiled machine, requiring partnerships with leading solutions in each core category of a robust mobile cloud. By delivering a unified experience, Highway 9 and its partners enable joint customers to focus on business outcomes while we abstract away the work involved in integrating with partner solutions.”

Sequeira is one of the founders of the startup, which emerged from stealth mode earlier this year and unveiled its Highway 9 Mobile Cloud. The private mobile-cloud offering aims to bring carrier-grade cellular coverage to enterprises to eliminate gaps in coverage, support AI-driven apps, and provide always-on mobile data.

The new alliance program is expected to offer several benefits for enterprise customers, including:

• Address new and existing mobility needs: Helps customers address key mobile connectivity challenges including integration with security controls, coverage across mobile carriers, and integration with cloud providers.
• Deliver enterprise-ready private 5G: Enables the deployment of an enterprise 5G solution that easily integrates with existing IT infrastructure, security measures, and policies.
• Streamlined deployment and operations: The Highway 9 Mobile iCloud console is integrated with partners’ solution components to enable single pane of glass visibility and reduced operational efficiencies.
• Reduced costs: Streamlined deployment and management processes help enterprises achieve lower operational costs and faster time to service.

Launch partners of the Mobile Cloud Alliance Program include Arista, AWS, Fortinet, Digi, Intel, Google, BEC by Billion, Zebra Technologies, MultiTech, Versa Networks, Semtech/Sierra Wireless, and others. Participating partners will contribute expertise and technologies to help provide enterprises with access to reliable, high-performance mobile connectivity.

“We know that a truly unified wireless experience, comprised of Wi-Fi and private 5G, delivers a seamless user experience across the entire enterprise campus,” said Kumar Srikantan, vice president and general manager, zero trust campus networking at Arista, in a statement. “We are working closely with Highway 9 Networks to provide customers with an integrated wireless network solution that provides ubiquitous coverage indoors and outdoors, delivering enhanced productivity, efficiency, and innovation.”

“As manufacturing and warehousing are transformed through AI and automated operations, often called Industry 4.0, the wireless and wired network connectivity required for autonomous vehicles, drones, and robotic manufacturing are under increasing strain,” said Curt Ahart, vice president of business development at Digi, in a statement. “Digi has partnered with Highway 9 Networks to enhance network coverage with their Mobile Cloud across factory floors and outdoor areas, ensuring customers’ uninterrupted production output and efficiency through optimally connected AI and automation workloads.”

The Mobile Cloud Alliance Program includes four key pillars:

• Mobile networks: Integrates with end-user devices, gateways, access points, and routers, enabling compatibility and performance, secure data transmission, and speed and reliability.
• Enterprise IT infrastructure: Applies existing enterprise security controls and network infrastructure policies to protect data integrity, prevent unauthorized access, and optimize network operations.
• Partnerships with cellular providers: Guarantees reliable and high-speed mobile connectivity, extensive coverage, and sufficient capacity for enterprise operations.
• Partnerships with cloud providers: Enables integration with cloud services, providing scalable computing resources, data management solutions, and support for hosting and deploying services and applications.