Arris’ Ruckus supports Facebook’s Express WiFi initiative

Arris-owned Ruckus is joining Facebook’s Express WiFi initiative, deploying hotspots to connect parts of Africa, India and Indonesia to the web.

Facebook’s Express WiFi Certified ecosystem is a program that allows access point manufacturers to build WiFi hardware that is compatible with Express WiFi – part of Facebook’s plans to bring more people online globally.

Operators participating in the Facebook’s initiative will deploy Ruckus virtual SmartZone controllers and indoor and outdoor WiFi access points in high-traffic public areas in these regions.

Ruckus products are currently deployed in Express WiFi installations in Tanzania, Nigeria, and other developing nations.

“We are committed to providing connectivity to people in the most remote areas of the world,” said Ian Whiting, President, Ruckus Networks, an Arris company.

“We are excited to be a partner in Facebook’s Express WiFi Certified program which is another important step in bridging the digital divide, giving individuals access to high-performance WiFi networks.”

Facebook’s product lead for Expres WiFi said: “With this program, we hope to expand the Express WiFi ecosystem and work with partners like Ruckus to help bring affordable WiFi solutions to emerging markets.”