(Courtesy of Extreme Networks)
Networking solutions giant Extreme Networks announced Wednesday its recent acquisition of the LAN (local area network) business from Zebra Technologies, a tracking technology company.
According to Ed Meyercord, President and Chief Executive Officer of Extreme Networks, “A part of this acquisition is Zebra’s full wireless LAN portfolio, which will become a part of the existing ExtremeWireless product line. This includes a series of new access point (AP) offerings, including Zebra’s wall plate and tri-radio APs to provide versatility and agility across a variety of vertical markets.”
Also, adding Zebra’s wireless intrusion prevention system (WIPS) solution will expand Extreme’s wireless LAN security offering.
Extreme Networks’ involvement in sports includes work with the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Green Bay Packers and NFL, among others. In January 2014, the NFL named Extreme Networks its First Official Wi-Fi Solutions Provider and for Super Bowl 50 this past February, named it the Official Wi-Fi Analytics Provider.
“Enhancing the fan experience continues to be one the NFL’s top priorities,” said Michelle McKenna-Doyle, the NFL’s Chief Information Officer, in a prior press release. “By teaming with Extreme Networks, we’re building the technology infrastructure needed and delivering on the high standards we have put in place to give our fans the type of experience they deserve.”
Zebra Technologies is the Official On-Field Player Tracking Provider of the NFL and recently expanded on its five-year partnership with the league. After every game this season, Zebra will provide all 32 teams data from its RFID player-tracking technology system. In years past, that information has been provided at season’s end. In 2016, teams can now utilize data to drive their decisions and make in-season adjustments.
Moving forward, it will be interesting to monitor what effect, if any, the acquisition has on Zebra and Extreme Networks’ relationship with the NFL.
