Arris International said it has landed a deal to supply a hosted version of its carrier-class service provider WiFi platform to Mediacom Communications for a deployment that is already underway in almost a dozen communities
The Arris platform being used by Mediacom integrates products from partners that include Ruckus Wireless, Aptilo Networks and Benu Networks. The combo enables Mediacom to combine its wireless assets into a unified, centrally managed network, and support a single sign-on for roaming among WiFi hotspots.
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Mediacom is deploying the out-of-home WiFi network to extend access at small-business locations, as well as venues and markets spanning hospitality and education, among others.
A Mediacom spokesman said deployments are underway in Columbia and Jefferson City, Mo.; Moline, East Moline, Rock Island and Silvis, Ill; Bettendorf and Davenport, Iowa; Savage, Minn.; and Valdosta, Ga.
Of recent note, Mediacom made its WiFi service available to the public last weekend during the PGA’s John Deere Classic at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, and supported more than 17,000 unique users on the service during the tournament.
Mediacom has not identified the next group of cities where it will deploy its WiFi network, but acknowledged that its “ultimate goal” is to join the Cable WiFi roaming consortium as it looks to expand into more markets. MSOs involved in the WiFi roaming group currently include Comcast, Charter Communications, Cox Communications, and Altice USA.
"ARRIS's Wi-Fi technology and expertise is enabling us to address the demand for carrier-grade wireless services in our key markets," JR Walden, SVP technology and CTO at Mediacom, said in a statement. "By hosting this solution for us, ARRIS is giving Mediacom the freedom to scale to new customers and services at our own pace, without having to make big investments in new infrastructure."
