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.

Modernization

All in for FirstNet

The planned national wireless interoperable emergency responder network got 100 percent buy in, but some stakeholders needed some prodding.

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.

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

Agencies prep communications for Hurricane Irma

FEMA, the FCC turn to prepping communications providers for oncoming Hurricane Irma, as post-Hurricane Harvey cleanup continues in Texas.

Acquisition

Post-award, the real work starts on EIS

Federal agencies and the 10 contract awardees still have work to do before taking advantage of GSA's next-generation telecommunications contract.

Digital Government

FCC sets criteria for state FirstNet networks

FCC approves review measures for states' alternative plans to connect to the FirstNet nationwide wireless emergency responder network.

Modernization

DOD releases electronic warfare strategy to stakeholders

The DOD has released a new strategy to guide its buildup of electronic warfare capabilities, but the unclassified document is only available to government and contractors.

Digital Government

AT&T rival targets FirstNet opt-out states

FirstNet and AT&T made their plans for states' wireless broadband network available, starting what might be a contentious state-by-state battle.

Modernization

White House funds federal spectrum study

OMB funds research on how to consolidate multiple federal radar capabilities to free up government-owned spectrum for the commercial market.

Modernization

AT&T seeks tough standards for FirstNet opt-outs

Telecom providers argue about the role and impact of state-run networks on FirstNet's nationwide public safety broadband network.

Modernization

Agencies face static in spectrum relocation

Although the Spectrum Relocation Fund addresses the perennial issue of migrating agencies off of scarce spectrum, more innovation and perseverance is required.

Modernization

Congress looks to free up federal spectrum

Lawmakers have reintroduced a bill to entice federal agencies away from spectrum holdings to free it up for commercial use.

Modernization

FirstNet award on tap

There isn't much suspense as the Commerce Department prepares to announce the winner of a $6.5 billion national wireless broadband emergency network contract.

Acquisition

FirstNet expects court decision soon

FirstNet's top lawyer said the bid protest holding up the $6.5 billion contract award could be resolved "in the next several days."

Modernization

Bid protest continues to stall FirstNet award

The First Responder Network Authority is preparing to announce the award for its nationwide broadband public safety network, once it settles an ongoing bid protest.

Modernization

FAA looks to spur spectrum sharing tech

The FAA is leading a multi-agency effort to encourage commercial innovation in spectrum sharing.

Modernization

Why spectrum sharing is here to stay

The push to make more federally-owned spectrum available for commercial use will involve sharing, no way around it, according to the president's telecom advisor.

Modernization

New rules proposed for vehicle-to-vehicle comms

In a new proposed rule, the Transportation Department wants to require automakers to include vehicle-to-vehicle communications capabilities and envisions vehicle-to-infrastructure capabilities.

Digital Government

NTIA software tool shows spectrum use

A new report reveals how federal agencies manage broadband wireless spectrum via a graphics-based software tool, which can help in the effort to free spectrum for commercial use.