Bridge in a Box Archives

Wireless ISPs (WISPs) face growing encroachment from network operators using fiber and LEO satellite technologies. Consumers have high expectations around speed, latency, and reliability. WISP operators will maintain and grow their businesses by offering technical advantages and practical solutions on top of their inherent advantage in customer service. Cambium Networks’ ePMP 4000 Series, specifically the ePMP 4500 Access Point, introduces an innovative new feature designed to do just that: asymmetric channel bandwidth.

Boosting Capacity with Smarter Channel Configuration

At its core, this feature allows WISPs to configure different channel widths for uplink and downlink traffic—a first for this product class. The benefit? Higher capacity and reduced interference, especially in the noisy 5 GHz band where many WISPs operate.

To understand the value, consider how bandwidth behaves in real-world deployments. Wider channels combined with high-order modulations can dramatically increase throughput. The ePMP 4500 delivers this type of performance. However, these wide channels also make links more vulnerable to interference—particularly around the tower, where RF congestion is often at its worst.

Solving Uplink Challenges in Noisy Environments

Subscriber modules, located away from the tower, typically deal with less interference. But the tower itself—often surrounded by other radios and competing signals—can become a bottleneck. This is especially problematic for uplink performance, where signals are trying to reach the tower amid all that noise. This is where asymmetric channel bandwidth changes the game. By allowing WISPs to assign a narrower channel to the uplink, the system reduces the amount of noise it picks up. Narrower channels have a higher link budget and ultimately yield higher signal-to-noise ratios, which means more reliable uplink communication—even in tough RF environments.

Aligning Wireless Architecture with Traffic Patterns

At the same time, most internet traffic is downstream—streaming video, browsing, software updates. The asymmetric setup allows WISPs to maintain a wider channel in the downlink direction, enabling high-speed data delivery to the end user without sacrificing performance in the uplink direction.

This isn’t just a theoretical advantage. In practical terms, WISPs using the ePMP 4500 with this feature are unlocking faster downlink speeds while preserving stable and sufficient uplink capacity. That translates to better customer experiences without needing to compromise on reliability or redesign the network.

A Simple Upgrade Path with Immediate Benefits

The ePMP 4500 Access Point supports backwards compatibility to Force 300 Subscriber modules, meaning network operators can take advantage of this feature simply by upgrading their ePMP 3000 AP to an ePMP 4500 AP today and start seeing immediate benefit from asymmetric channel bandwidth and other enhancements while upgrading the SMs when convenient or as they expand and grow their business.

This asymmetric channel bandwidth feature is exclusive to the ePMP 4000 Series. It reflects Cambium Networks’ focus on solving real-world deployment challenges faced by WISPs—particularly those operating in dense or spectrum-constrained environments. For WISPs looking to stay competitive without major overhauls, this feature offers a straightforward way to get more out of existing spectrum. It’s a smart approach to spectrum management that aligns technical capability with traffic patterns, making it a timely innovation for today’s wireless landscape.

Student housing is a unique use case in the world of managed Wi-Fi. Unlike traditional multi-dwelling unit (MDU) or multifamily properties, student communities demand a network experience that matches the hyper-connected lifestyle of Gen Z. Students arrive en masse, bring dozens of devices, roam across the property at all hours—and they expect everything to just work.

For leasing managers and property owners, the right Wi-Fi strategy is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Let’s break down the top three requirements you need to prioritize when selecting a managed Wi-Fi partner for your student housing portfolio.

1. Seamless Onboarding for a Transient Population

Students don’t trickle in—they move in all at once. Then they leave. Then they come back. Your network needs to handle the chaos of move-in day without missing a beat and support constant device churn throughout the academic year.

With Cambium Networks’ ePSK (enhanced pre-shared key) technology, each resident gets their own private, secure Wi-Fi “bubble” that follows them wherever they go on the property. There’s no need to configure a new network every time a device is added—whether it’s a laptop, smart TV, or a new gaming console.

Why It Matters:

Students can self-provision their devices in minutes, without IT support.
Property staff aren’t bogged down with Wi-Fi help desk tickets during peak move-in times.
Residents return from holiday or Spring break and reconnect effortlessly.

2. Support for Massive Device Density and Bandwidth-Hungry Users

Let’s face it: students are some of the heaviest bandwidth users out there. Zoom calls, streaming Netflix in HD, gaming on Twitch, and uploading assignments to the cloud—all happening in one unit, at the same time, on a dozen devices.

This isn’t the time for consumer-grade routers or outdated enterprise models. You need a high-capacity, high-performance network backbone built with Wi-Fi 6/6E access points optimized for dense environments. Cambium’s full-line of enterprise-grade APs are purpose-built for these scenarios, ensuring low latency, high throughput, and future-proof performance.

Why It Matters:

No buffering or network lag during peak usage.
Faster load times and better academic and entertainment experiences.
Fewer complaints and higher student satisfaction.

3. Property-Wide Roaming with Zero Friction

In student housing, your Wi-Fi can’t stop at the apartment door. Today’s students live their lives across the entire property—from the study lounge to the gym, from the pool to the laundry room. They expect their connection to follow them—seamlessly and securely.

With a managed Wi-Fi solution powered by Cambium Networks, roaming is effortless. Whether students are studying in the clubhouse or Facetiming on the way to the fitness center, their devices stay connected without dropping the signal or requiring a re-login.

Why It Matters:

Unified, secure SSID across the property ensures full mobility.
Residents stay engaged across all amenities—boosting the value of your community.
Network performance remains consistent regardless of location.

Why Cambium Networks for Student Housing?

Our managed Wi-Fi architecture—built on cloud-based cnMaestro™ and powered by high-capacity Wi-Fi 6 and 6E access points—is designed to support the realities of student living. From instant onboarding to seamless roaming and simplified centralized management, we help property managers reduce support calls, increase satisfaction, and ultimately boost NOI.

Let’s Talk in Austin

If you’re attending Interface Student Housing in Austin, April 9–11, let’s connect. Schedule a meeting with the Cambium Networks team and see how we’re transforming student housing Wi-Fi from a liability into an asset.

👉 Set up a meeting now and take the first step toward delivering a resident experience that truly works—anywhere, anytime, on any device.

Ready to future-proof your student properties? Let’s make Wi-Fi one less thing your residents ever have to think about.

Enterprise networks are evolving fast—and connectivity must keep up. Cambium Networks’ cnWave 60 GHz solution delivers a distributed, high-capacity wireless fabric that rivals fiber in performance while offering unmatched flexibility and cost-efficiency.

At the heart of cnWave is a distributed mesh architecture built for high-density environments. Using a multi-node configuration, cnWave forms resilient mesh topologies where each node can act as a forwarder or fallback, enabling uninterrupted connectivity—even when individual links fail. This design ensures superior reliability and extends network reach without centralized bottlenecks.

High-Speed Performance and Effortless Scalability

Performance is about uptime and delivering speed. cnWave supports multi-gigabit throughput of 5+ Gbps with channel bonding—and maintains ultra-low latency under 1 ms. That’s the responsiveness required for real-time applications like video surveillance, voice communications, and interactive services. For enterprises balancing cost and performance, cnWave offers a compelling alternative or complement to fiber builds.

Scalability is native to cnWave. As demand grows, adding more Points of Presence (POPs) is a seamless process. The solution automatically manages multipath routing via the OpenR protocol, optimizing data flow and reducing downtime risk. Distributed control mechanisms eliminate single points of failure by synchronizing across the mesh, keeping operations smooth and always available.

Tailored Deployment Options for Any Environment

Flexible deployment options are key for diverse enterprise use cases—from smart cities to campuses to industrial zones. cnWave’s client node lineup provides tailored performance for every scenario:

V1000: Compact and economical, perfect for short-range (up to 150 meters) links in dense urban areas.
V2000: Mid-range node offering extended coverage (up to 600 meters) and reliability for enterprise-grade needs.
V3000: High-gain powerhouse engineered for long-range (up to 1.5 kilometers) connectivity in challenging environments.
V5000: High-performance distribution node offering up to 280-degree coverage, ideal for urban and suburban environments with flexible deployment options.

Use LINKPlanner for an optimized coverage solution based on your exact geographic location.

Whether you’re replacing last-mile fiber, building out surveillance infrastructure, or expanding broadband in underserved zones, cnWave 60 GHz gives you a path to rapid deployment and enterprise-grade performance—without trenching, delays, or compromise.

Ready to transform your network architecture?

Send us an email for an exclusive Live Lab Session with the experts at Cambium Networks.

The Department of Commerce’s decision to revamp the BEAD program is a turning point for broadband in the U.S. By eliminating constraints and shifting to a tech-neutral, outcome-driven approach, the path is now easier for states to deliver high-speed internet access quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

At Cambium Networks, we welcome this change — and we’re ready.

Wireless is Working — At Scale and At Speed

Across our wireless portfolio, we’ve engineered solutions that not only meet but exceed the 100/20 Mbps performance standard. Operators using Cambium equipment are delivering reliable, high-throughput broadband across rural, suburban, and urban markets — often in areas where fiber simply doesn’t pencil out.

Here’s what’s powering that momentum:

ePMP™ 4000 series: Our latest generation of fixed wireless delivers up to 1 Gbps throughput in real-world conditions with enhanced spectral efficiency and low latency. It’s ideal for operators building high-capacity access networks while managing spectrum effectively.
PMP 450v 2×2: Deployed across both 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands, this platform supports over 600 Mbps per subscriber and is already in active use delivering BEAD-compliant service.
60 GHz cnWave™: Providing fiber-like speeds wirelessly, ideal for dense environments or extending networks without trenching.
Licensed and unlicensed microwave backhaul: Built to connect the unconnected quickly — and built to last.

It’s not just a toolbox — it’s a wireless strategy that empowers operators to connect more homes, faster, with a lower total cost of ownership.

Preventing Overbuild, Preserving Progress

One of the smartest aspects of this BEAD shift is what it protects. In the previous model, working wireless networks were at risk of being overbuilt by fiber — even when the wireless service met or exceeded performance goals. That’s both unnecessary and hurts deployments in unserved areas.

Now, with a shift toward results, well-designed wireless deployments can stand on their own merit. This protects existing investments and encourages smarter planning at the state level.

Where Cambium Stands

Cambium Networks has focused on delivering high-performance, cost-efficient solutions that scale in real deployments across the U.S. and around the world. We’ve proven that wireless can deliver on BEAD objectives, and we’re ready to partner with operators and state leaders as they re-evaluate plans under the new guidance.

Let’s build networks that work — and last.

Our team is actively supporting service providers and grant stakeholders with design guidance, performance documentation, and deployment best practices. The future of broadband is more flexible and financially prudent — and Cambium Networks is proud to be helping lead the way.

Let’s talk about how wireless can power your BEAD strategy.

Contact our team today to explore the possibilities.

At Cambium Networks, we’ve always believed in performance, precision—and peace.

Which is why today, we’re proud to announce not one but two groundbreaking advancements engineered to help you not only connect faster, but feel better doing it.

cnMaestro™ “Zen Mode”

Stop clicking. Start transcending.

Your network management dashboard is now a place of inner stillness. With Zen Mode, we’ve reimagined the cnMaestro experience to support a more mindful administrator. Key features include:

A bonsai tree dashboard that only grows when you do absolutely nothing.
Mouse movement monitoring that rewards calmness with subtle leaf animations.
Every alert message replaced by:
“Perhaps… it is already resolved.”
Optional background chanting:
“802.11… ommmm…”

Initial beta testing suggests 40% less clicking, 70% more inner peace, and at least one case of spiritual awakening during a firmware upgrade.

“I used to fear config changes. Now I fear my own ambition. Thank you, Zen Mode!”
– Level 2 NOC Engineer, mid-lotus pose

ePMP™ AromaBeam

Smell the signal. Feel the flow.

Building on the principles of both RF performance and spa-grade serenity, the AromaBeam is the world’s first fixed wireless access point to emit mood-optimized scents through its antenna array.

Link up triggers a Pine Fresh Scent, perfect for high-altitude deployments.
If RSSI drops below -80 dBm?
A burst of Soothing Lavender gently urges the signal back to center.
If RSSI drops below -90 dBm?
The system releases Motivational Cinnamon.
You’ll feel it. The trees will feel it. The packets will tremble.

And yes—technicians may refuse to come down from the tower.

Now Available… for One Day Only!

Both Zen Mode and AromaBeam are being offered in extremely limited release—April 1st only—as part of Cambium’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of wireless… and reality.

For full part numbers, aroma profiles, or to request early enlightenment, contact your Cambium representative or stare at a tower until a response appears in the sky.

Cambium Networks. Beyond Connectivity. Toward Inner Radiance.

Now breathe. Let go of your alerts. And inhale the bandwidth.

Connectivity isn’t just evolving—it’s accelerating. As networks scale to meet growing demand, service providers need solutions that deliver efficiency, performance, and flexibility. At Cambium Networks, we are driving this transformation with innovations that simplify migration, maximize network capacity, and extend high-speed connectivity.

Showcasing Innovation at WISPAmerica

At WISPAmerica next week in Oklahoma City, we’ll showcase the technologies defining the next era of broadband:

The latest developments with ePMP™, including the new Force 4518
The breakthrough capabilities of Deep VC for PMP 450
Fiber solutions for hybrid networks and MDUs
New additions to a powerful portfolio of switching, Wi-Fi, and network management and optimization solutions

Next-Generation ePMP: A Smarter, More Efficient Evolution

WISPs depend on seamless network evolution. Our latest advancements in ePMP technology provide a direct path to higher capacity and improved efficiency—without disruptive overhauls. With backward compatibility, enhanced spectral efficiency, and advanced network management, operators can modernize while protecting their existing investments. If you have older generation ePMP equipment in your network, now is the time to upgrade—upgrading from ePMP 3000 with 20 Force 300-25 SMs to an ePMP 4500 with Force 4525s more than doubles the throughput!

ePMP Force 4518: High-Performance, Cost-Effective Connectivity

The ePMP Force 4518 redefines subscriber connectivity. With an 18 dBi flat-panel antenna and the proven ePMP air interface (now with 802.11ax technology), this compact, high-performance module delivers gigabit-class speeds while simplifying deployment. Fully integrated with cnMaestro™ for seamless network management, it enhances reliability while reducing operational complexity. Already available in international markets, FCC approval is expected soon, unlocking new opportunities for service providers.

Deep VC: Expanding Network Potential

Capacity is the lifeblood of network performance. Deep VC (Virtual Circuit), our subscriber capacity booster, transforms how bandwidth is allocated, dynamically managing network resources to double throughput for individual users. By optimizing the MAC layer within the 450 platform and better support for wider channel widths, Deep VC delivers ultra-low latency and high-speed connectivity—with no change in equipment and no additional software loads.

Fiber for Hybrid Networks and MDUs: Seamless, Scalable High-Speed Broadband

Cambium Fiber is affordable, easy to deploy and simple to manage. You can have your network up and running in under 15 minutes. And you’ll enjoy the same unified management provided by cnMaestro that you’re already accustomed to with fixed wireless.

Multi-dwelling units (MDUs) demand fast, reliable connectivity, and Cambium Fiberprovides superior tenant experiences. Our approach integrates fiber, switching, and Wi-Fi into a single, easily managed network—reducing complexity and improving service quality.

Powering Growth with Cambium’s End-to-End Solutions

Technology solutions should work together to drive efficiency, not add complexity. Along with our fixed wireless and fiber products, our expanded portfolio of cnMatrix™ switches, Wi-Fi APs, NSE security gateways, and Quality of Experience (QoE) all work harmoniously to optimize the network, while cnHeat and LINKPlanner enable faster planning and design, giving operators the flexibility and control to expand their networks with confidence.

Let’s Connect at WISPAmerica

Stop by our booth #320 and join our Vendor Spotlight: Powering the Future: Next-Level Connectivity for WISPs on Tuesday, March 25 at 1:45pm to hear more about how we can empower your business with intelligent solutions built for growth.

I look forward to engaging with our customers and partners at WISPAmerica. Schedule a meeting with our team, and let’s shape the future of wireless—together.

As the demand for high-performance networking in education continues to grow, Cambium Networks reaffirms our commitment to providing schools, colleges, and universities with reliable, scalable, and secure connectivity solutions.

Strengthening Our Focus on Education

This market, both K-12 and higher education, remains a key priority for Cambium Networks, as schools and institutions continue to invest heavily in digital learning accessibility.

Our mission to deliver high-quality networking solutions that make a real difference in education while protecting schools’ limited budgets is unchanged. We continue to receive accolades for how our solutions simplify deployment and management while enhancing network performance.

We look forward to continuing our partnerships with schools, colleges, MATs (Multi Academy Trusts), and universities, ensuring they have the connectivity they need to support future connectivity needs with operational efficiency.

Support for E-rate Funding in the U.S.

As part of our ongoing commitment to education, we support E-rate funding in the U.S., ensuring schools can access federal assistance to modernize their networking infrastructure. This program enables educational institutions to deploy cutting-edge connectivity solutions that enhance learning experiences using federal funding.

Real-World Impact: Wicomico County Public Schools Case Study

A prime example of our impact in this market is Wicomico County Public Schools (WCPS), which serves 15,000 students and 3,500 staff across 26 schools is the U.S. state of Maryland. Facing the challenge of supporting digital learning, online testing, and IoT-based applications, WCPS deployed Cambium Networks’ advanced Wi-Fi 6E solutions, including 2,000 high-density access points (APs).

Key Benefits of the Deployment:

Comprehensive Wi-Fi Coverage: Seamless connectivity in classrooms, hallways, and common areas, ensuring uninterrupted learning.
Seamless IoT Integration: Support for smart devices, including automated cleaning systems and energy management tools, optimizing operational efficiency.
Enhanced Application Control: Network resources are prioritized for critical learning tools and security applications, improving overall network reliability.
Reduced IT Workload: Simplified network management reduces troubleshooting time, allowing IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives.

By investing in future-proof network solutions, WCPS has significantly improved its digital learning capabilities, ensuring students and educators have the technology they need to thrive.

Moving Forward Together

Education is evolving rapidly, and Cambium Networks remains dedicated to ensuring that schools have the infrastructure they need for digital success. We’re proud to partner with institutions worldwide to deliver high-performance, secure, scalable, and cost-effective networking solutions.

If you’d like to learn more about our solutions for education, reach out to our team or explore our latest innovations. We’re excited about what’s ahead—and we’re just getting started.

Service providers constantly face the challenge of delivering high-capacity broadband while working within limited spectrum availability. The new ePMP Force 4518 Subscriber Module (SM) from Cambium Networks is a game-changer in fixed wireless broadband solutions, providing high performance at a highly competitive price in a new small form-factor. Small form-factor SMs with panel antennas have been the most popular form factor for network operators in dense areas and where simple installations and aesthetics are critical. Designed for both Point-to-Multipoint (PMP) and Point-to-Point (PTP) deployments, the ePMP Force 4518 offers a range of benefits, including an ultra-compact form factor, simplified installation, cost-effectiveness, and combining next-generation 802.11ax technology with the proven ePMP platform. Let’s explore how this new SM can transform wireless connectivity.

1. Small Form Factor: Powerful Yet Discreet

The ePMP Force 4518 sports a sleek, flat-panel design that eliminates the need for an additional dish, making it an aesthetically pleasing choice for residential and business deployments.

No additional dish required – Unlike larger SMs that require bulky reflectors, the 4518 integrates an 18 dBi flat-panel antenna, keeping the design compact and minimizing installation footprint.
Urban and suburban-friendly design – Whether mounted on rooftops or walls, this SM blends seamlessly into its surroundings, making it an ideal solution for areas where aesthetics matter.
Lightweight and durable – Weighing only 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs), the ePMP Force 4518 is easy to handle, transport, and install, without compromising durability.

2. Ease of Installation: Simplified Deployment with Sector Panel Alignment

Installation time and complexity can make or break an SM’s adoption in the field. The ePMP Force 4518 makes deployment significantly easier with its sector-panel design.

Easy to align – Unlike traditional dish-based SMs, which require precise alignment to establish a strong link with the Access Point (AP), the wide-angle panel antenna of the Force 4518 provides greater flexibility in aiming for faster installations.
Integrated pole mount hardware – The unit includes an easy-to-mount system, enabling quick and secure installations.
Plug-and-play setup with cnMaestro™ – As part of Cambium’s ONE Network, the ePMP Force 4518 seamlessly integrates with cnMaestro™, providing zero-touch provisioning, remote monitoring, and streamlined network management.

3. Cost-Effective Broadband: A High-Performance Solution at a Budget-Friendly Price

Cost is a major consideration when scaling broadband networks, and the ePMP Force 4518 delivers exceptional performance at a fraction of the cost of comparable solutions.

Optimized for affordability – Built to deliver high-speed broadband without the need for costly external antennas or complex installations.
Multi-use application – The device supports both Point-to-Multipoint (PMP) and Point-to-Point (PTP) configurations, allowing service providers to maximize their investment across multiple deployment scenarios.
Check with your distributor for pricing – The ePMP Force 4518 is designed to be one of the most cost-effective solutions on the market. Contact your local Cambium Networks distributor to learn how much you can save compared to traditional SMs.

4. Combines Next-Generation 802.11ax Technology With the Proven ePMP Platform

Wireless performance is at the heart of any SM, and the ePMP Force 4518 is engineered to deliver top-tier speeds and reliability with the proven ePMP platform that has more than 4 million radios deployed. The ePMP 4000 Series leverages all the scalability, performance and cost-effectiveness and now leverages the latest 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) technology as its underlying chipset.

High-speed connectivity – Supports 1024-QAM and 80 MHz channel widths, enabling gigabit-class speeds with ultra-low latency.
Optimized for ePMP 4500 Series APs – The Force 4518 fully integrates with MU-MIMO technology, allowing the AP to communicate with multiple SMs simultaneously, increasing network efficiency.
QoS prioritization for voice, video, and data – With advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, service providers can deliver high-performance broadband while ensuring superior user experience for VoIP, streaming, and business-critical applications.
Secure and reliable – Features 128-bit AES encryption and enterprise-grade security protocols, ensuring safe and interference-resistant connectivity.

Why Choose the ePMP Force 4518?

The ePMP Force 4518 Subscriber Module is a perfect blend of performance, affordability, and ease of deployment. Whether you are expanding your fixed wireless network, improving coverage in suburban and rural areas, or looking for a cost-effective alternative to fiber, this SM delivers high-speed connectivity at an unbeatable price.

✔ Compact and discreet – No dish required, small and lightweight. ✔ Easy to install – Sector panel alignment reduces setup time. ✔ Super affordable – Competitive pricing makes large-scale deployments feasible. ✔ Next-gen 802.11ax technology – High-capacity, MU-MIMO-enabled, and optimized for performance.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, high-performance wireless broadband solution, the ePMP Force 4518 is your best bet.

Contact your local Cambium Networks distributor
to learn more about availability and pricing.

For more information, visit Cambium Networks or contact your authorized distributor.