These features are generally available only with behind-the-firewall gateways:
Over-the-air provisioning/updating. Some gateways let IT load client software and send software updates using wireless connections. This is particularly useful for deploying large numbers of units to mobile workers.
Over-the-air security management. Some gateways let IT wipe data stored on the device, reset passwords and prevent further wireless usage.
Access to other corporate information. Vendors are enhancing their systems to deliver a variety of information. Access to back-end databases is enabling field service, sales force automation and customer relationship management. This is still a relatively immature area, but one where vendors anticipate significant growth.
Not all vendors support all these features, and some may have features not listed above. For large deployments, RIM and Good Technology are the leaders in the behind-the-firewall field.
Verizon is demoing crowd analytics technology that uses 5G along with AI and mobile edge computing to give stadium operators insights into the flow of fans throughout a venue.
As we move closer to fully realizing the potential of Wi-Fi 7, it becomes evident that the RF, signaling, and throughput tests are not merely procedural checkpoints but the pillars of excellence in wireless communication.
With low earth orbit (LEO) satellites fast becoming the norm and 3GPP unifying telecom standards around the globe, the satellite IoT and machine-to-machine (M2M) sector ought to be looking at a bright horizon. But is this the case?
