Jeff Collins

FCC hits Lingo Telecom with a $2m fine for getting their S/S attestation wrong on the Joe Biden deep fake robocalls. Lingo Telecom basically assumed because they had a contract with the company making the calls, they could attest those calls with an "A". On top of that, they weren't aware of what their customer was actually doing until regulators brought it to their attention. This highlights not only that carriers have to get attestation right, but also to monitor their customers traffic to know if they are misbehaving. In the meantime, it's an expensive mistake. https://lnkd.in/gmtwU5Ds

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This week's Brief is out. In a hat tip to yesterday (May 4), we discuss T-Mobile's Lumos transaction - why it makes a lot of sense. Also, many other items in the market commentary... More inside #sundaybrief

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One of the final sessions I attended this week at #ConnectX24 was about the US adoption of open-access (wholesale) #FTTP. I have to admit that I'm not currently a deep expert on the US fixed-line #broadband sector, but given I'm increasingly focused on this fibre, it seemed like a good place to start. I'll also aim to go to the Fiber Broadband Association at the end of July in Nashville, for a full deep-dive.   My main takeaway is that US wholesale and open-access FTTH is still at an early stage, but has a number of important catalysts: - Good fit with the new government BEAD funding model - Desire for mobile operators to get into #FTTX (as well as #FWA) - Lots of infrastructure capital sloshing around still, especially if interest rates start to fall again - Municipalities and energy companies with increasing emphasis on gigabit connectivity That said, it's fairly early days for the US #openaccess model, despite some early signs such as Gigapower (AT&T + BlackRock), UTOPIA Fiber and one of the panellists A2D, Inc. The main difference I see compared to most European markets is that incumbent broadband providers (cable or telco) have much less emphasis on wholesale.    This firstly means that the ecosystem of diverse retail ISPs doesn’t really exist to the same degree in the US, and big players like mobile-only operators and content firms don’t really push into residential broadband the way that (say) Vodafone or brands like TalkTalk have in the UK. So while European open fibre networks have a relatively easy pitch of selling to existing VDSL-based ISPs who want to migrate their existing customer base, in the US there will need to be a bit of a rethink. It's a potential opportunity for new fibre-based retail ISPs, or adjacent sector brands, but it maybe looks a bit like MVNOs, especially if the wholesaler also has its own retail arm. That said, A2B said they already had Tier-1 operators interested in onboarding to their systems, and given that there are no truly national footprints among the telcos and cablecos, it might be the key tenants are those players operating out-of-area. The other difference are around the large physical size and low population density of the US. A rural area in Wyoming or Kansas is very different to a rural area in the UK, France or Ireland, and the fibre economics look very different. There aren't the relatively densely-concentrated villages that are common in Europe - rural settlements are spread along roads, or on isolated individual properties. That's where FWA and satellite broadband are likely in a stronger position. The panel's final question was about timing for the US open-access market to mature. Most thought maybe 6-8 years - but the moderator was more pessimistic and thought doubling that could be more realistic. Overall, an interesting starting point, but I need to dig deeper before I conclude that the US fibre market is going to delayer to wholesale & retail at scale, like some other countries.

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I enjoyed the discussion and insights from GSMA and others on Private 5G deployment use cases and what it takes to drive adoption.

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Rakuten Symphony is so appreciative to AT&T for being included in its network simplification transformation program. Thank you to all the AT&T executives who have given us this chance to be part of an industry-changing program. Mike Dano's article captures so many aspects of what is required to be successful in an undertaking like this. It starts with the fundamentals of using different words to describe what is being done. "I think the word 'cell site' goes away," AT&T's Todd Zeiler said. "I think this pivots to a world of CU, DU, RU. Servers and access points." Before we built mobile networks. Today we start building distributed data center operations where the primary user is a mobile network. We see so many parallels between how AT&T is approaching this and how Rakuten Symphony already approached it. The hope is we can discover an industry blueprint that can make sense for the whole of telecom to be able to follow and accelerate the change to being a truly software-driven cloud-native operation. From Mike Dano's below article when describing the vendors involved "One is Japan's Rakuten Symphony. According to The Mobile Network, AT&T counts roughly 7,000 users of Rakuten Symphony's Site Manager software within its own and its contractor construction teams. The software automates parts of AT&T's site deployment processes." To listen to the full discussion between Yigal Elbaz and Sharad Sriwastawa at MWC BCN this year click here https://lnkd.in/e5ErFYJg To learn more about Rakuten Symphony Site Management solution click here https://lnkd.in/eq8Bsx27

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We were active to help push through the Telecom Act of 1996 and worked with indie ISPs and Competitors to open and use the wired state telecommunications public utilities; In stead, we witnessed the failure of the Republican FCC administration, under Chairman Mike Powell, who proclaimed that 'inter-modal competition' -- i.e., let the cable, phone and wireless companies compete-- Ee don't need those pesky ISPs that brought America online. And through regulatory capitalism, the FCC used this garbage-economic plan, to eliminate the rights of the public to choose their own ISP over networks that they were funding-- a fact that was also removed from any FCC analysis. This new plan is not Title II, there is no 'rate regulations' much less investigations into the cross-subsidies and overcharging we and other analysts detailed; and there is no 'cost-accounting' required to be able to independently examine the financials. There is also no 'unbundling', meaning the state-telecom-public utility networks will not allow for indie ISPs etc to use the wires customers paid for. -And this FCC never examined the state-fiber optic plans or the charging of customers for the network construction or that the fiber that is being put in in 2024 is being done as "Title II" already-- not this pseudo-Title II that has been stripped-bare of the original meaning and intent. - We added a collection of historical links to what we filed with indie ISP groups - The consequences in 2024; we have had continuous increases of all services, the companies now collude-- Comcast and Charter are reselling Verizon wireless under their brand, we had 23 million getting gov. subsidies and ending, and that money goes to the same companies that took control Meanwhile, AT&T and Verizon failed to properly upgrade most of America-- but got paid to do so -- and there is no competition to seriously drive down prices, while overseas pricing is a fraction of what we pay. The fact that we're giving an additional $40 billion with the majority going to these select few, with no competition in sight -- are all a direct consequence of the harms that were created via a process that ended up with this new order just extending the regulatory failure that is known as Net Neutrality. -- https://lnkd.in/gDdT9JUQ

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Understanding how digital signal modulation affects fiber optic transmission, a good primer for all involved in telecom network planning

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🚨 The FCC's push to ban bulk billing in multifamily communities might be well-intentioned, but it risks widening the digital divide. Bulk billing solutions offer affordable, reliable internet to many, especially in low-income and rural areas. Removing these options could increase costs and reduce access where it's needed most. Let's keep discussing how we can advocate for policies that support broadband providers in reaching underserved communities and ensuring digital inclusion for all. #DigitalInclusion #BroadbandForAll #FCC #AffordableInternet https://lnkd.in/gKSqk3fM

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Most small ISPs see Net Neutrality as a cover for the FCC wanting control of the Internet and Broadband. Nothing positive will come of this move by the FCC, especially for small ISPs, as it will simply layer on more Federal bureaucracy. In fact, it could ultimately lead to higher costs for consumers as these companies seek other means to cover yet another unfunded mandate by the FCC. https://lnkd.in/gahnanw4

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Maximize Your BEAD Funding Potential with High-Res Network Planning Are you gearing up to apply for BEAD funding? If so, you’re likely aware that BEAD stipulates a 100% Universal service requirement. To meet this ambitious goal, consider leveraging Tarana Wireless, Inc. in CBRS bands for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) service. At DigitalTwinSim, we’re ready to assist you in planning a high-resolution network anywhere in the United States using 7-15cm resolution data from Vexcel Data Program. Our approach is designed to not only meet but exceed the 100/20 Mbps requirements. This positions you favorably in the “Speed of Network or other technical capabilities” scoring segment, giving you a competitive edge. Our capabilities extend to identifying every individual building that can be connected. We optimally place sites to align with your capex and performance constraints, ensuring a strategic investment. Furthermore, we specialize in planning Hybrid Fiber & FWA networks, maximizing Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) for a robust hybrid network. Your vision drives our planning. Define your scenario, and we will meticulously plan and run the network economics, supporting you throughout the bidding process. With Digital Twin Sim, you’re not just planning a network; you’re engineering success. Ready to engineer your network’s future? Connect with us at Digital Twin Sim, and let’s craft a winning strategy together. #BEADFunding #UniversalService #FWA #NetworkPlanning #CBRS #DigitalTwin

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Interesting statistics from BoFA on Erica's usage. Erica is the BoFA assistant, and it is interesting to see what customers use it for. #1 assistance request: what is my routing number? It makes sense to do this via the assistant rather than with a live agent on the phone or in chat. #customerexperience #AI #banking #deflection

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A seamless streaming experience depends on a stable, high-speed internet connection. Our provider partner GoNetspeed explains how fiber gives businesses the reliable connectivity they need for efficient streaming in this article: https://hubs.li/Q02wCzjv0 #Fiber #FiberInternet #BusinessInternet #GoNetspeed #C4Communications

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Another one of the hidden assets in broadband networks. This is truly transformational!

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The AI-RAN Alliance marks the onset of a major shift in telecommunications. This alliance includes tech leaders like Amazon, Microsoft, and NVIDIA, along with major telecom companies, to integrate AI into radio access networks. The primary goals are to improve network efficiency, reduce power consumption, and retrofit existing infrastructure for future technologies. By focusing on AI-driven advancements in RAN capabilities and deploying AI services at the network edge, the alliance aims to unlock new economic opportunities and enhance global competitiveness. This strategic collaboration is poised to redefine the landscape of mobile networks, making them smarter and more efficient. It’s an exciting development that promises to bring significant benefits to both consumers and industries. https://lnkd.in/egbNqX2V

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Why is Bulk ManagedWiFi so important for MDU? Watch this short (less than 2 minutes) video where I talk about all of the lessons learned over 24 years of serving densely populated apartment buildings. This is a short segment from a much longer webinar I was recently on with Drew Clark of Broadband Breakfast (and discussing the FCC) I thought it would be useful to owners and operators (and to the FCC) to understand why Bulk ManagedWiFI is so beneficial for you and your resident's experience. Why managing the RF spectrum is so important! This is NOT an advertisement. This is more of a why ManagedWiFi when built properly, delivers the very best possible internet experience to your residents and to the property. #ruckus #managedWiFi #affordablehousing #fcc #bulkinternet #kickasswifi #knockyoursocksoffservice #mdu #wifi

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When it comes to telecom, security's a big deal, especially for VoIP outfits like Cleod9 Voice. See, hardware's like the low-hanging fruit for hackers—it's often outdated and easier to crack. But don't sleep on software security either. Sometimes, companies ditch software updates, leaving their systems wide open for attacks. Relying on software obscurity for security? Bad move. Even if you've got a top-notch VoIP phone, if the software's compromised, your messages aren't safe, no matter where they're headed. That's where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in clutch. They're like the gatekeepers, making sure your network's up-to-date and secure. And hey, it's a game-changer with Cleod9 providing your phone infrastructure in a Software as a Service (SaaS) model. It keeps your software fresh, not just for the first year, but ongoing. So, your PBX security game? It starts with rock-solid, updated software—think encrypted calls, video chats, the works. By keeping software tight and staying on top of updates, Cleod9 Voice keeps their clients' comms safe from the ever-evolving threat landscape. #EndToEndEncryption, #HIPAACompliance, #CyberSecurity, #VoIP Security

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When it comes to telecom, security's a big deal, especially for VoIP outfits like Cleod9 Voice. See, hardware's like the low-hanging fruit for hackers—it's often outdated and easier to crack. But don't sleep on software security either. Sometimes, companies ditch software updates, leaving their systems wide open for attacks. Relying on software obscurity for security? Bad move. Even if you've got a top-notch VoIP phone, if the software's compromised, your messages aren't safe, no matter where they're headed. That's where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in clutch. They're like the gatekeepers, making sure your network's up-to-date and secure. And hey, it's a game-changer with Cleod9 providing your phone infrastructure in a Software as a Service (SaaS) model. It keeps your software fresh, not just for the first year, but ongoing. So, your PBX security game? It starts with rock-solid, updated software—think encrypted calls, video chats, the works. By keeping software tight and staying on top of updates, Cleod9 Voice keeps their clients' comms safe from the ever-evolving threat landscape. #EndToEndEncryption, #HIPAACompliance, #CyberSecurity, #VoIP Security

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**Unlocking Rapid ROI with Private Cellular 5G: A Game Changer for Enterprises** We at #GXC we are seeing this happening with all of our deployments! Achieving rapid ROI! ### Key Features of Private Cellular 5G: 1. **Enhanced Connectivity and Speed**: Enjoy ultra-fast, low-latency communication that supports real-time data transfer and seamless connectivity across all devices and systems. 2. **Security and Control**: Private 5G networks offer a dedicated, secure infrastructure, reducing the risk of cyber threats and ensuring sensitive data remains protected. 3. **Scalability and Flexibility**: Easily scale your network to meet the changing demands of your business. Private 5G can be customized to support a wide range of applications and use cases, from IoT to advanced analytics. 4. **Reliability and Performance**: With private 5G, experience consistent and reliable performance, minimizing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted operations. 5. **Cost Efficiency**: Reduce operational costs with optimized network resources and improved efficiency. Private 5G networks provide cost-effective solutions tailored to your specific business needs. ### Benefits Driving Quick ROI: **Increased Productivity**: Empower the workforce with reliable, high-speed connectivity that enhances collaboration and streamlines processes. **Improved Customer Experience**: Deliver superior customer service with real-time data insights and faster response times. **Operational Efficiency**: Optimize your operations with advanced automation and predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs. **Innovation and Growth**: Foster innovation with the flexibility to deploy cutting-edge technologies and applications, driving business growth and competitiveness. **Strategic Decision-Making**: Leverage real-time analytics and data to make informed, strategic decisions that propel your business forward. Investing in Private Cellular 5G is more than just upgrading your network—it's a strategic move that positions your enterprise for long-term success and rapid ROI. Embrace the future of connectivity and watch your business thrive. #Private5G #EnterpriseTechnology #ROI #Innovation #Connectivity #BusinessGrowth #FutureOfWork

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There's no bigger vote of confidence for T-Mobile's network than an enterprise-level organization placing their trust in us for mission critical work. That's why I'm so excited the US Navy chose T-Mobile For Business as part of the $2.67 billion Spiral 4 contract! This new contract will give all Department of Defense agencies the ability to place orders for wireless services and equipment from T-Mobile for the next ten years. With Spiral 4, the Department of Defense will have the opportunity to leverage T-Mobile’s leading 5G network for state-of-the-art wireless solutions for voice, data, fixed wireless solutions, Internet of Things and mobility management solutions. It will help ensure robust and reliable connectivity for government activities — from mission critical communications to network solutions that serve military personnel and federal civilian agencies. It's an honor to serve those who serve our Nation! Learn more about the announcement here: https://lnkd.in/gK7bMRsE

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