Cisco supplying WiMAX gear to Clearwire
- — 14 May, 2009 05:27
Clearwire has selected Cisco to supply equipment for its 4G mobile WiMAX network buildout. The deal appears to be Cisco's biggest WiMAX win, though terms weren't disclosed.
Under the multiyear agreement, Cisco will also develop mobile WiMAX/Wi-Fi devices for end users that extend its Linksys line of consumer routers. The devices, expected later this year for the CLEAR 4G mobile WiMAX service, will be marketed to consumers, small office/home office, and small-to-midsize business users.
Clearwire is in the process of testing and certification of Cisco's 7600 series routers, ONS 15454 and ONS 15310 optical platforms, ASA Firewalls, and the Service and Application Module for IP Home Agent.
Clearwire currently provides mobile WiMAX services in Baltimore and Portland, Ore., and plans to bring its CLEAR 4G service to more than 120 million users in 80 markets across the United States by the end of 2010. The operator, though, is facing complaints from users about slow service and an onerous termination fee.
Cisco and Clearwire are jointly operating a WiMAX developer's testbed in Silicon Valley with Google and Intel. The companies are also participating in a WiMAX patent alliance.
Cisco acquired its way into the WiMAX market with its purchase of Navini Networks in 2007.
Cisco projects that mobile data traffic will increase a thousand-fold over the seven years from 2005 through 2012, with video being a significant component.
