Digital Government

GSA adds drone countermeasures to security schedule

The General Services Administration has added anti-drone technology to its product menu for federal, state and local law enforcement, first responders and agencies, but aviation and legal experts urge discretion.

Modernization

NTIA blocks China Mobile's bid for U.S. presence

The NTIA tells the FCC that China Mobile is a potential national security threat if it is allowed to provide international services from the U.S.

Modernization

Jamming tech targets illicit comms behind prison walls

Federal law enforcement is encouraged after a successful test of technology that could electronically jam commercial mobile phones smuggled into prisons.

Modernization

Why it's getting harder to find sharable federal spectrum

The government is sitting on a goldmine of radio spectrum that could be used to accelerate 5G deployment, but crafting a coordinated policy to get there is complicated.

Modernization

Lawmakers push to expand agency spectrum sharing

New legislation would provide more money for agencies to research how to free up their federal spectrum holdings for commercialization.

Modernization

Federal spectrum key to U.S. 5G

Government-held spectrum is one of the keys to global U.S. commercial leadership in 5G, and new study says, and pending legislation can help.

Modernization

5G push could require federal spectrum

Communications policy leaders are looking put federal spectrum in the pipeline as the U.S. gears up for faster mobile broadband.

Modernization

NTIA, DOD look at sharing out federal spectrum for commercial 5G

The government is going to study the possibility of making a 100 megahertz swath of spectrum available for high-speed mobile broadband.

Modernization

How NTIA is trying to push 5G

The federal government looking to encourage 5G wireless tech by trimming regulations and making it easier for carriers to use federal property for cell sites.

Modernization

AT&T, FirstNet cast doubt on rival's participation

AT&T and some public safety officials say Verizon's public safety network services claims aren't accurate.

Modernization

States can keep options open on FirstNet

Even though all 50 states have opted into FirstNet's and AT&T's plans for a nationwide wireless first responders' network, Verizon reminds them they're not obligated.

Cybersecurity

Can federal purchasing power counteract botnets?

New guidance required under the cybersecurity EO suggests that government purchasing power could induce tech manufacturers, especially in the emerging IoT space, to market more secure devices.

Digital Government

Can NTIA figure out if social media breeds hate?

A new bill would task two federal agencies with supplying Congress with insight into the connection between social media and hate crimes.

Modernization

Granite State opts out of FirstNet

Although 35 states and territories have decided to join the AT&T-based public safety broadband network, the proposal by Rivada Networks was "far and away our best option," the governor said.

Digital Government

IoT proposals await NTIA's political leadership

A federal tech agency put its internet of things policy on hold while as new leader faces Senate confirmation.

Cybersecurity

House bill looks to secure IoT ecosystem

New legislation would improve security and oversight of connected devices.

Modernization

As deadline looms, 22 states opt-in to FirstNet

FirstNet announced that final decisions are due from governors by Dec. 28 on whether they will use the federally backed interoperable wireless network for first responders.

Modernization

Verizon plans FirstNet rival

Verizon says it will carve a dedicated network out of its extensive national 4G LTE network for first responders, in competition with FirstNet.

Cybersecurity

Can government help fight the war on botnets?

As the number of internet-connected devices increases, along with the threat of botnets and potential attacks, the role of government should not be solely focused on prescribing new legal mandates.

Cybersecurity

Expert: Battling botnets requires standards and automation

The departments of Commerce and Homeland Security have embarked on a year-long study on how to reduce botnets, but one former official says steps must be taken now to combat the growing problem.