Broadband over satellite: A solution for connectivity in remote, tier II/III mkts

CelerityX is a new entrant in the field of enterprise networks, and it is transforming networks in three key dimensions: network security, traffic routing, intent awareness and observability. The company's OneX solution is a zero-touch box that can operate on any local broadband network and SIM cards. It even includes geo-fencing capabilities to deactivate if it moves beyond a predefined radius, providing an added layer of security and control.

In an exclusive interview with Bizz Buzz, Sameer Kanse, Chief Business Officer at CelerityX, discusses the evolving role of technology in shaping the future of enterprise network solutions. He also highlights the benefits of broadband over satellite in contrast to traditional broadband, and shares his views on navigating the distinctive challenges and opportunities in Tier-II and Tier-III markets

Kindly explain the evolving role of technology in shaping the future of enterprise network solutions.

Traditional enterprise networks used to achieve ‘privacy and security’ through a restrictive framework. However, the evolution of cloud-based applications, hybrid work models, and multi-device access has introduced increased complexity into network management. Emerging technologies like Software Defined Wide Area Networks (SD-WAN) and next-generation cloud-based firewalls are better suited to address the demands of this cloud-based economy compared to traditional MPLS-based networks and local firewalls. While traditional players have started adapting to these new domains, their progress is hindered by their need to protect their traditional business models.

In rapidly evolving technologies, the most significant product innovations often come from new entrants who are not constrained by legacy technology. In the field of enterprise networks, new players have emerged in the last five years, and they are transforming networks in three key dimensions: Network security, traffic routing, intent awareness and observability. Furthermore, machine learning and AI technologies are being deployed in these new solutions to rapidly generate threat intelligence and enhance network security in today's modern landscape.

What are the benefits of broadband over satellite in contrast to traditional broadband?

Broadband over satellite (BoS) provides uninterrupted, widespread connectivity across a country with diverse geographic landscapes. Unlike fiber connectivity, which can be vulnerable to disruptions caused by natural calamities, BoS remains immune to such interruptions. As a result, BoS becomes a critical service not only for connecting remote areas but also as a high-availability backup link beyond city limits. This is particularly valuable for manufacturing plants, warehouses, renewable energy farms, and essential services like the police.

We've also been involved in an intriguing project in Jammu & Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh where BoS is used to enable live interactive education for children in remote areas. BoS empowers teachers in urban areas to provide quality education to remote students. This concept can be extended to e-healthcare and other social initiatives, ultimately enhancing the quality of life across various locations.

What are your views on navigating the distinctive challenges and opportunities in Tier II and Tier III markets?

Tier II and Tier III markets represent the next phase of growth for most brands across various industries, including retail, edge data centers, IT, and manufacturing. These cities are pivotal for companies, both in terms of consumption and talent acquisition. However, to drive this growth successfully, connectivity is essential. These markets are filled with eager consumers looking for aspirational purchases. The success of stores like Zudio and the demand for offerings from companies like Nykaa in these markets highlight the immense potential they hold.

Nevertheless, these locations pose connectivity challenges. Traditional MPLS networks are often unviable or unavailable in these areas, and deploying IT engineering resources can be a challenge. Moreover, security concerns, as seen in cases like the Jamtara frauds, persist in these regions. In response to these challenges, network deployments in these areas require robust, zero-touch provisioning and management solutions that can function across various types of networks.

Our OneX solution addresses these needs by offering a zero-touch box that can operate on any local broadband network and SIM cards. The box even includes geo-fencing capabilities to deactivate if it moves beyond a predefined radius, providing an added layer of security and control in these dynamic markets.

Please share a brief overview and objective behind the launch of CelerityX.

CelerityX is born out of the idea that while most components of cloud enabled economy can be purchased and provisioned at the click of a button, network procurement and lifecycle management is still stuck in the slow track. A typical process involves multiple mails, haggling with vendors and infinite delays in project management during delivery. At the end of it all there is a mess of multiple vendors, links, and lack of single pane of glass. This issue is aggravated with the movement to enterprise grade broadband and the emergence of 5G.

CelerityX was born to simplify the lifecycle from procurement to implementation to monitoring to payments across locations and technologies through digital enablement. The word ‘Celerity’ – means to move with speed and the ‘X’ signifies the multiplier factor which digital enablement adds to our customer productivity. We are a digitally native network solutions provider offering services at the click of a button and leveraging the latest service innovations.

What are the unique service offerings and the purpose of introducing enterprise business solutions?

CelerityX uniqueness stems from three key elements:

• Our innovative NetX platform offers customers an experience similar to ‘MakeMyTrip’ in terms of transparently viewing and procuring connectivity across Wide Area Network (WAN) types such as 5G, enterprise broadband or Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) links. This platform ensures that customers can achieve cost savings through direct contracts with service providers, while vendors benefit from improved margins for their services. Service providers are also rated based on service levels, justifying any price premiums they charge. Our Services X-Operations ensure that CelerityX takes on the entire burden of managing multiple vendors during delivery, handling trouble ticketing, and managing billing. We serve as the single point of contact for the customer throughout the service lifecycle. Furthermore, we provide a unified interface for customers to view their entire network, regardless of vendors, and offer uptime reports by site.

• Our Service innovation SkyX – Broadband Over Satellite solution ensures connectivity even in remote areas.

• Our Network as a Service solution, OneX, provides a single box that replaces functions such as firewall, routers, intrusion detection, and unified threat management solutions. This simplifies the customer's network significantly and contributes to cost optimization for modern networks.

What is the pivotal role of CelerityX in ensuring data security, reliability, and performance for enterprises?

CelerityX innovative OneX solution offers 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) encrypted traffic and a stateful firewall to ensure data security. The capability to provide multiple backup links, including broadband, leased lines, MPLS, and SIM cards, guarantees high network uptime. Additionally, the ability to prioritize data based on specific applications, devices, and users creates an intent-aware network, enhancing the productivity of critical services for the organization.

Please throw some light on the emerging trends and advancements in the networking and digital solution landscape, and how CelerityX is strategically positioned to embrace these changes.

One of the significant changes in the networking landscape has been the emergence of cloud-based technologies, such as Network Function Virtualization, Cloud-based firewalls, and Software Defined WAN (SD-WAN). These innovations have profoundly altered the way networks are designed and deployed.

In the past, networks primarily required 2-10 Mbps bandwidth, following a hub-and-spoke model. However, today, a significant portion of traffic is directed to the cloud, traversing the internet through multiple devices. The prevalence of video content has also made factors like latency and routing crucial considerations. Additionally, the increasing number of threat vectors poses a substantial risk to organizations.

CelerityX is strategically positioned to address and adapt to these changes. We possess an extensive owned broadband network, a cloud-native digitally enabled infrastructure, and the advantage of not being tied to traditional networks. This flexibility allows us to collaborate effectively with new-age players and provide innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the networking landscape.

Insights into the company’s future plans and potential challenges from industry peers.

CelerityX is committed to sustaining its disruption of the network procurement and management landscape by adopting a platform-based approach and introducing innovative digital solutions at competitive prices. The telecom industry has historically operated in a co-opetition mode, where competitors also cooperate to some extent. We believe that our innovative platform not only benefits us but also opens up new avenues and opportunities for all market participants. This collaborative approach fosters evolution within the entire ecosystem, ultimately creating value for all involved parties in the market.