Shows
Waves with Wireless NerdThe Wireless World Keeps Spinning While Industry Giants ReshuffleSend us a textFresh from his first trip to Australia, Drew Lentz dives into the evolving landscape of wireless networking with observations that span from down under to the stratosphere. The Melbourne adventure yielded more than just kangaroo sightings and chicken "parmies" – it showcased how different regions approach connectivity challenges with innovative solutions.The industry continues its dramatic reshuffling as major players reposition themselves. The HPE-Juniper merger leaves customers wondering about the fate of competing wireless portfolios, while Meraki's transition from its iconic green to Cisco blue marks what many see as the final ch...2025-07-1758 min
Waves with Wireless NerdUnpacking the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Wired & Wireless and Discussion on the HPE Juniper Merger!Send us a textThe 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 making waves too—Nile and Meter have stormed into the visionaries quadrant, though many industry experts believe Meter deserves an even stronger position for their innovative ap...2025-07-0132 min
Waves with Wireless NerdWill AI Replace Your Networking Job, or Just Make You Better At It?Send us a textThe 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 advancements as threats to job security, Drew frames them as powerful amplifiers of human capability. As he reflects on An...2025-06-2647 min
Waves with Wireless NerdThe Tech Taco: An Incoming Consolidation Wave, Serving Up AI at the Edge, and a Side of Satellite BroadbandSend us a textThe 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 that's redefining who controls our digital infrastructure.Meanwhile, American Tower is quietly revolutionizing edge computing by installing data centers at the base of cellular towers. This strategic placement brings...2025-05-3141 min
Waves with Wireless NerdThe Digital Divide: When Politics Meets Internet AccessSend us a textRecent 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 distributing Wi-Fi hotspots to schoolchildren• Ted Cruz claimed hotspots would bypass parental controls, ignoring existing parental monitoring solutions• COVID-19 exposed the digital divide a...2025-05-2727 minWaves with Wireless NerdExploring Innovation: From WiFiNow to the Helium Network and more!Send us a textThe 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 performance• Helium serving over 700,000 users daily across 90,000 hotspots with major carrier partnerships expanding• Google Fi launching a $35/month unlimited plan with 30GB high-speed data, competing with innovat...2025-05-0238 min
Waves with Wireless NerdConversations with the Wireless Nerd: From CB Radios to Wireless Smart GlassesSend us a textThe 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 about digital parenting after watching Netflix's "Adolescence" series, which prompted him to strengthen digital safeguards for his children using monitoring services like Bark. His candid discussion about parental vigilance in...2025-04-2336 minWaves with Wireless NerdWi-Fi Wizardry: 320MHz Channels, Free American Airlines Internet, LPFM, and More!!Send us a textAfter 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 innovative Network as a Service approach that's about more than just selling products—it's about driving the en...2025-04-1829 min
Waves with Wireless NerdThe WLPC 2025 Preview: What to expect, what not to do, and all the in-betweensSend us a textWLPC 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 discussions for knowledge expansion • Reminders on maintaining a positive and respectful conference environment Support the showThanks to our sponsors: Helium & meter...2025-02-1330 minWaves with Wireless NerdCES & NRF: Wireless Breakthroughs, IoT Marvels, and Retail Tech Trends for 2025 & BeyondSend us a textThe 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 and their implications • Overview of Wi-Fi HaLow technology and its significance in IoT 2025-01-1847 min
Waves with Wireless NerdMastering CES 2025: Insider Tips for Navigating Tech Giants, Startup Marvels & Unforgettable Experiences at Eureka Park and BeyondSend us a textCES 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 and tech trends • Deep dive into the automotive technology featured in the West Hall 2025-01-0217 min
Waves with Wireless NerdWireless Revolution 2024: Unraveling Wi-Fi 7, Private Networks, Industry Shifts & A Glimpse into 2025 with AI and IoT MarvelsSend us a textReady 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, learn how AI is not just a buzzword; it's a game-changer, with giants like Cisco and Meter redefining the wireless...2025-01-0137 min
Waves with Wireless NerdMerry Christmas! Unwrapping Wireless Potential: Wi-Fi's Role in Community Safety, Cybersecurity Challenges & the Future of IoT with HaLow InnovationsSend us a textIs 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 with excitement as we prepare to reconnect with our listeners and colleagues at WLPC...2024-12-2438 minWaves with Wireless NerdEmbarking on a Wireless Journey: From #MFD12 to eero & Starlink's Rural Revolution & the Future of Connectivity Plus Wi-Fi and Open RAN 5G InsightsSend us a textStepping 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 story of John...2024-11-2753 min
Waves with Wireless NerdAn interview with Helium Network GM Mario Di Dio About The Helium Decentralized Connectivity Revolution: From IOT to WiFi to 5G & MVNOSend us a textUnlock 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 now riding the 5G wave by transitioning to the Solana blockchain for even more exciting opportunities.Step...2024-11-1934 min
Waves with Wireless NerdSwitching things Up: E-Rate Changes, Industry Acquisitions, and Wireless Insights (& a new job!) from the Front LineSend us a textEver 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 institutions already stretched thin, and consider the potential impact on tech procurement and maintenance.Bu...2024-11-1437 min
Waves with Wireless NerdWi-Fi's Next Evolution: NoCode Development with AI & How It Affects Networks, CBRS Innovation, and the Possibilities in a Connected WorldSend us a textDoes 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 also brought a delightful culinary detour at a local Vietnamese ea...2024-11-0149 min
Waves with Wireless NerdCutting-Edge Wireless: 5G RedCap Solutions, Private Networks @ MWCA, ngFWA, Wispapalooza & More!Send us a textWhat 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 that is stealing the spotlight! Plus, hear about the critical themes of indoor cellular and satellite networking from MWCA.2024-10-1736 min
Waves with Wireless NerdTech Evolutions Unveiled: Meter Raises the Bar with CBRS to Complete the Full-Stack, NetAlly & Hamina & Oscium & MetaGeek, & Satellite CommunicationsSend us a textEver 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, including their zero-code components driven by AI which is reshaping the role of engineers worldwide.The synergy we witnessed between Meter...2024-10-1131 min
Waves with Wireless NerdNetworking in the Wild: Outdoor Wireless Feasibility: A Peak at My Essential Tools, and Industry Trends with The Wireless NerdSend us a textEver 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 help me achieve accurate field surveys, and ponder whether the surge...2024-09-2746 min
Waves with Wireless NerdFrom WiMAX to CBRS & 5G: A Wireless Journey | Also, Electromagnetic Vortex CannonsSend us a textEver 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, including the complexities of testing Wi-Fi performance in challenging environments like high school football fields.Shifting our focus to...2024-09-141h 00
Waves with Wireless NerdConnectivity Unleashed: Wi-Fi 7 & iPhone 16, Bluetooth Innovations, and a lesson on DAS, Private Cellular, and Wi-Fi Offload!Send us a textGet 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 host and private networking? We break down their cautious approach, contrasting...2024-09-0650 min
Waves with Wireless NerdWireless Innovations From Antennas to Space: Skylo's Satellite IoT, iPhone 16 Pro Rumors, and Wi-Fi Halow's Future PotentialSend us a textDiscover 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 their game-changing direct-to-device service. Don't miss our insights into Verizon's collaboration with Skylo for emergency messaging...2024-08-2930 min
Waves with Wireless NerdRevolutionizing Network Management: Meter AI Innovates Monitoring, Control & Configuration with CommandSend us a textGet 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 their network, take action, and create custom software fit to their specific needs – all in...2024-08-211h 02
Waves with Wireless NerdAI's Impact on Tech, Jobs and Business: Exploring AI-Powered Retail Innovations, Global Space Race, HTTP3, DEF CON Discoveries, and More!Send us a textCan 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 of AI in the tech landscape. Plus, hear about Cisco’s AI-driven layoffs and the unfortunate rea...2024-08-1438 min