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Ruckus boosts Africa's link to Google's Billion Users initiative

By , ITWeb
Africa , 06 Jun 2018

Ruckus boosts Africa's link to Google's Billion Users initiative

Ruckus Networks has confirmed that its technology will be used in Google Station Wi-Fi hotspots across the Southern and Western parts of Africa – much like what the companies have done for the India, Indonesia and Mexico markets.

On 6 June the network company announced as part of its deal with Google, it will supply its virtual SmartZone controller and Wi-Fi access points to "enable carrier-grade networks at Google Station hotspots in these markets.

"Ruckus will supply its virtual SmartZone™ controller, which can manage a virtual instance of the SmartZone controller, as well as indoor and outdoor Wi-Fi access points," read a statement from the company.

Riaan Graham, Director Sales, sub-Saharan Africa, Ruckus Networks, today added, "These hotspots will afford unconnected communities the ability to connect and eliminate the digital divide ... this can be expected in the next financial quarter."

According to information supplied Google Station is described as "a high-speed, high-quality public Wi-Fi platform that provides an easy set of tools to roll out Wi-Fi hotspots in public places, such as high-traffic locations like airports, malls, universities, railways and mass transit stations."

"These hotspots deliver high-performance Wi-Fi using Ruckus' patented adaptive antenna BeamFlex technology for increased connectivity performance and range, better signals and maximised power efficiency," the statement continued.

David Shapiro, Chief Business Officer of the Next Billion Users Initiative at Google, said, "Deploying Google Stations with Ruckus technologies is an important step to connecting the next billion users. Ruckus networks are simple to install and operationally cost efficient, enabling us to be up-and-running in no time. Even more, their robust Wi-Fi signal ensures constant connectivity to Google Station hotspots, so users can upload/download photos, manage point-of-sale and be constantly connected."

Dan Rabinovitsj, president Ruckus Networks, added, "We are committed to delivering connectivity to users across the globe. Our partnership with Google Station enables emerging countries -from east to west - to deploy high-performance public Wi-Fi networks. Ruckus strives to deliver better quality service, from installation to end users - enhancing the overall user experience. We look forward to this ongoing partnership with Google bringing more connectivity to developing nations."

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