AT&T commits to evolving FirstNet safety community. By enabling 5G connectivity, AT&T aims to meet first responders’ needs and support innovative new technologies to help them stay mission-ready.
5G connectivity on FirstNet will be ideal for Internet of Things (IoT) and video intelligence solutions. Deploying cameras to the front gate of a stadium, screening attendees’ temperature to potentially help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and allowing an ambulance to transmit patient data back to the emergency room are all real-life scenarios that can be made possible with 5G.
In particular, public safety first responders across 38 cities and more than 20 venues can access the AT&T mmWave (5G+) spectrum from April 2021. Aside from reliable 5G connectivity, FirstNet will also be the first-ever nationwide network with comprehensive tower-to-core network encryption. With the help of AT&T, the FirstNet’s traffic will be automatically secured as it moves from the cell tower, through the backhaul, to the core and vice versa.
To achieve this, the telco will roll out security upgrades on every cell tower across the country, starting off with Houston and Cleveland. Nationwide completion is expected by Q1 2022.
“The FirstNet network is providing first responders with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, law enforcement save lives and protect their communities,” explained AT&T.