Deploying Next Generation 911 (NG911) is the single most complex technological transition any Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) will undertake. It is no longer about just upgrading a phone line; it is about integrating a "system of systems" where failure is not an option.   As the Department of War and other federal entities move to "embrace real innovation" and replace "antiquated systems", public safety must follow suit. But complexity introduces risk. This makes thoroug

But in the rush to adopt new technologies, a critical question arises: should LMR be phased out, or can it be reinvented as part of a more comprehensive system? Drawing from research, policy frameworks, and real-world case studies, this article contends that the most resilient future lies not in replacing LMR, but in integrating it with broadband to form a hybrid communications ecosystem. The result is a more reliable, data-rich, and mission-ready network for emergency servic

As digital transformation accelerates, cybersecurity threats evolve at an unprecedented pace. By 2025, businesses of all sizes must adopt robust habits to safeguard sensitive data, protect operations, and maintain customer trust. Here are five essential cybersecurity practices every business should integrate into their daily operations. 1. Prioritize Regular Employee Training Human error remains a leading cause of cybersecurity breaches. Cybercriminals exploit gaps in employe

When a security breach occurs, the speed and effectiveness of your response can mean the difference between a minor disruption and catastrophic loss. A well-structured incident response strategy is essential for commercial businesses and government agencies alike. Building a Robust Incident Response Guide Your incident response guide should be a living document, regularly updated to reflect new threats, technologies, and organizational changes. It must clearly define roles, r

Despite the nostalgia, the copper-based telephone network that served us for a century is rapidly becoming a liability in a digital-first world. The traditional copper-based telephone network was the backbone of American emergency response for over a century. It was simple, durable, and reliable. However, as we approach the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) benchmarks for 2026, the limitations of this legacy infrastructure—limited bandwidth, susceptibility to weather de

Cybersecurity is not a checklist; it is a mindset. For government agencies and emergency services, the "dusty, antiquated" view of security as a background IT function is dangerous. As the Department of War and other federal entities move toward Impact Level 5 (IL5)  operational rigor, public safety agencies must adopt a similar "Battle Rhythm" , where security is a daily, active teammate in your mission. Here is how to move your agency from "compliant" to "combat-ready." 1.

Information technology drives modern business operations, but with that dependence comes significant risk. Every system, application, and connected device represents a potential entry point for cyber threats. Understanding why cybersecurity matters for IT isn't just about protecting data—it's about ensuring business continuity, maintaining customer trust, and safeguarding your organization's future. The Evolving Threat Landscape Cyber threats have evolved dramatically over th

The scale of this shift is staggering. The global AI market is projected to surge from $371 billion in 2025 to over $2.4 trillion by 2032. This isn't just a tech trend; it's a fundamental rewiring of how businesses operate. And in customer service, it's giving our teams superpowers.

Why DoW Modernization Must Meet the Movement of Civilian Emergency Systems By E. J. Wasikowski – Vice President of Tribal Affairs and Strategy Netmaker Communications, LLC. Introduction: From Warfighting to Civilian Crisis Response The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)- now the   Department of War (DoW)  is undergoing one of the most ambitious transformations in its modern history: the modernization of its Command and Control (C2) infrastructure. Driven by rapidly evolving th

In an era where public safety relies on high-speed, resilient, and interoperable communication systems, Netmaker Communications, LLC is helping communities and governments across Virginia close critical infrastructure gaps. From testing Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) solutions to deploying SD-WAN-powered public Wi-Fi networks, the company is advancing digital equity, operational readiness, and emergency response — especially in historically underserved regions. Engineering t

Your Guide to Online Scam Awareness and Protection Introduction As our daily activities increasingly move online, so do the threats pose by cybercriminals. Online scams are more sophisticated than ever, targeting individuals and businesses through email, social media, websites, and even text messages. Recognizing the signs of an online scam is crucial for protecting your personal information, finances, and peace of mind. This article provides practical tips and insights to he

Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2025: An Authoritative Overview Initiated in 2004 by the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), this campaign has since expanded to encompass a wide array of global stakeholders, including: Government agencies Private sector organizations Non-profit entities Educational institutions Originally established to increase awareness of cyber threats and advocate for cybersecurity best practices, Cybers

By E. J. Wasikowski – Vice President of Tribal Affairs and Strategy Netmaker Communications, LLC. The transition to Next Generation 911...

This technology brings faster, smarter services—allowing text messages, video, and precise caller location. But while many counties benefit from this progress, there’s a troubling silence surrounding Virginia’s tribal communities. 

For the past seven years, I have dedicated my career to public safety communications, working at the intersection of technology,...