Cowboys Need Wi-Fi too.

Welcome back to THE IT EDGE. At EdgeTeam, we love a rodeo. When our good friends over in Martin County, TX told us they needed a network for their new rodeo arena, we said giddy up. In this edition:

• Project Spotlight: Our innovative networking solution for Martin County's new Rodeo Arena and Community Center.
• BEAD Funding Update: Recent developments in the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.

Wi-Fi Wrangling in Martin County

Martin County, TX, is making big moves with its brand-new Rodeo Arena and Community Center, designed to attract high-profile events like concerts and rodeos. But a cutting-edge venue needs cutting-edge connectivity—and that’s where EdgeTeam comes in.

?? The Challenge

Martin County’s new arena faced several unique networking hurdles:

• Unique Layout & Structural Challenges: As a large arena, this is no standard network deployment. Engineers had to figure out how to design a network that would work in this environment. For example, the building’s metal panels acted like a Faraday cage, blocking cell signals—making Wi-Fi the primary (and only) reliable means of communication.
• High-Density Traffic: Up to 7,000 concert attendees and 1,700 rodeo fans would be streaming, uploading, and sharing content all at once. The network had to handle the load.
• Security Needs: The same network supporting public events also had to protect critical county operations, demanding strict security segmentation.

? The Solution

To meet these needs, EdgeTeam designed a future-proof network:

• Ultra-Reliable, High-Speed Wi-Fi:?Access points from Ruckus Networks ensure seamless coverage and fast network speeds, even in this high-density environment.
• Enterprise-Grade Security: Fortinet solutions provide robust segmentation, keeping public and municipal networks separate. It's not just another firewall; it's a security fabric that is automated and fully integrated, for easier management and stronger security.
• Built for the Rodeo: EdgeTeam designed a customer network that fit the arena, including?Ruckus Outdoor APs that extend Wi-Fi to parking areas and outdoor event spaces, supporting mobile setups and trailers.

?? Why EdgeTeam?

Martin County has trusted EdgeTeam for nearly 20 years, thanks to our reputation for reliable, high-performance networking solutions. They also knew we hd the expertise to design a custom network that fit the new arena. This project showcases some of the ways EdgeTeam solves complex challenges and deliver seamless, secure, high-density connectivity—ensuring Martin County’s new venue is truly world-class.

Contact EdgeTeam

?? BEAD Funding Update

The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program is moving forward with major updates that could impact broadband expansion efforts:

?? Technology-Neutral Approach – The U.S. Commerce Department is considering allowing satellite internet providers (like Starlink) to receive BEAD funding, expanding broadband access options.

?? State Progress – All 56 eligible entities have submitted their proposals, and 54 have completed their challenge process portals to determine funding eligibility.

?? Funding Allocation – States like Michigan have launched applications to utilize their BEAD funding, with $1.559 billion allocated for broadband expansion.

?? Implementation Delays – While states are finalizing plans, most BEAD funds won’t be distributed until 2026 as approvals and provider selections continue.

EdgeTeam is monitoring these developments to keep our partners informed. Stay tuned for more updates in the coming months!

Partner Spotlight

At EdgeTeam, we believe in delivering smarter, more efficient networking solutions, which is why we partner with Juniper Networks. Juniper’s AI-driven solutions simplify network management and optimize performance. With Mist AI, Juniper automates troubleshooting and enhances Wi-Fi performance, ensuring seamless connectivity even in challenging venues with thousands of users. Plus, Juniper’s AI-driven security helps protect networks by identifying and mitigating threats in real-time. Whether it's optimizing user experience or securing mission-critical operations, Juniper’s AI-powered networking helps keep businesses and communities connected.

Learn More About Juniper

Thanks for joining us for THE IT EDGE! Networks and network security aren't a one-size-fits-all approach. Have a networking need??Reach out to us anytime.