LAS VEGAS – Cox Private Networks today announced an expansion of its solution portfolio with the launch of Neutral Host as a Service (NHaaS) in partnership with InfiniG. This solution provides reliable cellular from multiple mobile network operators (MNOs) in environments with poor indoor cellular coverage.
Why It Matters
Cox is the first provider to launch a commercially available MOCN (Multi Operator Core Network) neutral host solution with multiple carriers on the same network. This solution expands Cox’s private network offerings and provides mobile users access to stable, high-speed cellular service in hard-to-service areas such as buildings with reflective building materials, concrete walls, or locations underground. The solution solves similar challenges that distributed antenna systems (DAS) address, but at reduced cost and complexity, while also addressing many previously unserved organizations, facilities, and industries.
About Cox's Network
The solution expands public cellular networks through a dedicated, customer-owned private wireless network. As a result, in-building cellular technology is no longer reserved for the largest of venues, and can now be deployed in healthcare, hospitality, warehouses and more.
Cox's neutral host solution is also:
quick to deploy and easy to use
not disruptive to existing infrastructure
a scalable solution for businesses of all sizes
a more economical, less complex option to install compared to DAS
Most critically, this neutral host solution also enables 911-calling, so emergency calls in a building can be connected regardless of the caller's mobile operator.
"Offering a neutral host solution to enhance indoor cellular coverage is the natural next step for applying private wireless technology and is one more way we can use private wireless networks to solve our customer's connectivity pain points," said Brett Lasher, general manager, Cox Private Networks. "Our Neutral Host solution empowers enterprises to finally take control of the quality of cellular coverage within their four walls and deliver the connectivity that employees, customers and guests require."
Market Availability
The Cox Connected Environments Collaboratory at Arizona State University is deploying an on-campus pilot of the Neutral Host technology. Through the pilot, the Collaboratory will explore how the solution enhances the digital infrastructure that powers learning and working for both students and employees.
Cox is also the first to partner with InfiniG to deliver a multi-carrier solution over shared IT infrastructure. The company is tapping InfiniG's expertise to help design, build and operate its neutral host solutions. "In-building cellular has long been seen as an expensive and unrealistic technology for many organizations," said Joel Lindholm, CEO at InfiniG. "Collaborating with Cox means we can provide a service that scales in many more environments, so users are better connected. Furthermore, it’s the perfect complement to existing private network deployments."
Read the full press release here.
Cox Communications