URWB was built for times when even advanced Wi-Fi technology isn't enough. Besides ultra-low latency (less than 10 milliseconds), it delivers zero packet loss and make-before-break handoffs, making it ideal for mission-critical use cases. It runs in unlicensed spectrum and plays nicely alongside Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi is an access technology, while URWB is a backhaul technology.
Access networks connect end-user devices (like phones, laptops, and sensors) to the core network. Nearly any standard device can connect to these networks, which don't control or own the connected devices. Access networks connect only user devices; they don't provide connectivity for networking equipment.
Backhaul networks extend your core connectivity to remote places where running cabling isn't practical. Unlike access networks, backhaul networks manage both the access point and client sides of the communication—an approach that helps to optimize protocol support, latency, and roaming capabilities. Think of it as a wireless extension cord that connects devices beyond the client device—such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), cameras, or Wi-Fi access points—back to the core network.
URWB uses overlay technology to emulate virtual switches over standard 802.11 links, so that you get ultra-low latency for moving or fixed assets. The result is steady, reliable connectivity.
URWB delivers failover in less than 500ms, no matter how big or complex the network.
Make-before-break handoff means that each of your assets connects to the next access point before it leaves the current one. The result: Users enjoy roaming with zero downtime or dropped connections.
With MPO, URWB keeps moving devices connected by sending high-priority traffic to multiple access points at once on different paths and frequencies. It can duplicate critical packets up to eight times, using time, space, and frequency diversity to avoid interference and hardware failures. Paired with advanced hardware, it also cuts latency and boosts overall reliability.
Mobility refers to connectivity between moving assets—such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and trains—and fixed infrastructure. As the assets move, their onboard radios stay linked to the network.
Wireless backhaul between radios mounted on fixed structures—such as poles, towers, or buildings—is often used to extend connectivity where fiber isn't feasible or cost-effective. Two common use cases are physical surveillance and campus connectivity. Connections can be configured in point-to-point (PTP), point-to-multipoint (PTMP), or mesh topologies.
URWB provides organizations in a wide range of industries with dependable wireless connectivity for mission-critical applications.
For ScottishPower Renewables, URWB delivered essential long-range wireless connectivity for sea vessels during the construction and operational phases of the company's offshore wind farms.
Ports and terminals such as Port of Thessaloniki, La Spezia Container Terminal, Malta Freeport Terminals, and DP World Evyap Körfez depend on URWB to power their Terminal Operating Systems (TOSs) and to connect cranes, teleremote rubber-tired gantries (RTGs), and autonomous vehicles.
URWB helps manufacturers to connect vehicles, mobile tooling, and production lines, offering more flexibility and cutting costs by eliminating cabling. General Motors uses URWB to capture real-time sensor data during vehicle testing, making immediate adjustments to speed development and get vehicles to market faster. Other manufacturers rely on URWB to quickly scale their fleets of AGVs.
With uninterrupted handoffs, even at high speeds, rail companies use URWB to connect applications such as Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC), sensors, video offload, onboard Wi-Fi, and real-time security monitoring. These URWB uses help to build passenger satisfaction, support safety and control, and boost situational awareness for optimal rail operations.
Mine automation improves productivity, keeps operations consistent, and enhances worker safety. Mines use URWB for vehicle-to-ground communication, enabling vehicle automation and real-time video monitoring with low latency and uninterrupted handoffs. Brazilian engineering firm Aterpa relies on URWB to boost worker safety with real-time remote control of unmanned vehicles that operate in hazardous areas.
URWB is faster and more affordable to deploy than fiber, making it a smart choice for reliable broadband in cities, schools, colleges, and universities. Canutillo Independent School District uses URWB to connect Wi-Fi hotspots in remote areas, helping thousands of students to learn from home. The City of Fort Worth gave free Wi-Fi to 40,000 residents across 10,000 low-income households, with access to city services, telehealth, jobs, and education.
URWB powers dark rides in theme parks where ultra-reliable wireless is a must for safety and a smooth guest experience. A ride's vehicles weave through enclosed spaces full of walls and obstacles—sometimes at high speeds—which makes uninterrupted connectivity critical to keep sound and visual effects in sync and to monitor the ride for safety issues.
Enjoy high-performance connectivity with tri-radio plus MIMO 4 × 4 and multigigabit speeds outdoors and in industrial settings.
Extend connectivity to small spaces or mobile assets with this compact dual-radio access point and wireless client, featuring, 2 × 2 MIMO and two spatial streams.
Extend your network reliably with built-in directional antennas or by choosing from a wide selection of external antennas (2 × N-type).
Deploy Wi-Fi 7 with a global-use access point that offers a resilient, scalable solution.
Catalyst 9124AX Series access points are built for on-premises managed Wi-Fi 6 mobile, outdoor, and wireless-backhaul support.
Yes, you can use Wi-Fi and URWB at the same time in one access point. This enables you to leverage Wi-Fi's high bandwidth with URWB's ultra-reliable connection to unlock new use cases without duplicating equipment. It's a smarter, faster way to deploy that saves you money and energy.
Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers. It should read "Both technologies can be managed with Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers or Cisco Catalyst Center.
