Cisco Ultra-Reliable Wireless Backhaul (URWB)

It enables the simultaneous operation of multiple devices, computing systems, and machines (such as AI-driven robots, autonomous vehicles, automated trains, AI-powered cameras, and enterprise networks) all of which require continuous operation and high-performance data transmission.

These applications demand a network capable of delivering ultra-high connectivity, extremely low latency (<10 ms), enhanced reliability, and robust security to ensure seamless data exchange.

As technology continues to evolve, network requirements grow increasingly demanding. URWB was specifically developed to support applications that are highly sensitive to packet loss and require uninterrupted roaming.

It provides consistent, reliable connectivity, making it an ideal complement to Wi-Fi, while enabling network expansion across both stationery and mobile assets.

The ability to run Wi-Fi and URWB simultaneously on the same access point creates a unified wireless solution that supports a broad range of applications (from simple to highly complex). This approach improves efficiency, reduces cost and complexity, and can be deployed within a licensed framework.

The Future of Industry

The future of industry is increasingly driven by wireless technologies. In the near term, rapid growth is expected, fueled by innovations such as Artificial Intelligence and robotics, including Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and collaborative robots (cobots)

These advancements unlock new possibilities and are transforming industrial operations by enhancing flexibility, productivity, and quality across sectors.

At the same time, they introduce new requirements for a rapidly growing number of devices, machines, and artificial intelligent systems. Wireless networks have become essential, offering the flexibility and cost efficiency needed compared to traditional wired infrastructure.

Evolving Network Demands

Modern industrial environments impose strict requirements on wireless networks, particularly in applications that require uninterrupted operation. Examples include AGVs in manufacturing, remote operations in ports and mining, and communication-based train control (CBTC) systems in railways.

Such use cases demand secure, stable, and high-speed wireless connectivity, where even minimal latency or brief disconnections are unacceptable. Any loss of connectivity can compromise safety, reliability, and productivity, leading to significant operational and financial risks.

AI-Driven Connectivity Needs

The rapid adoption of Artificial Intelligence is driving the need for more endpoints and data-collection systems that feed AI models. Reliable wireless connectivity is critical to support these AI-enabled devices. 

Wireless technologies continue to advance to meet these needs. Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, for example, deliver substantial improvements in bandwidth, speed, and capacity. With wider spectrum availability, networks can support a significantly higher number of concurrent devices. 

URWB complements these advancements by delivering ultra-reliable performance with extremely low latency, ensuring continuous operation for mission-critical applications. 

Together, Wi-Fi and URWB provide a comprehensive solution capable of supporting a wide range of use cases—including those requiring high throughput, ultra-low latency, and uninterrupted mobility.

URWB Capabilities

Cisco URWB is uniquely engineered for mission-critical environments where minimal packet loss and ultra-low latency are essential. It is particularly well-suited for connecting mobile assets and delivering backhaul connectivity in scenarios where wired infrastructure is impractical or cost-prohibitive. 

Built on similar technological principles as Wi-Fi, URWB evolves alongside it, benefiting from ongoing advancements in data rates and spectrum availability. As a complementary technology, it enables organizations to efficiently and reliably connect an increasing number of devices and systems.

URWB vs Private 5G

URWB addresses many of the challenges where traditional Wi-Fi falls short.

While Private 5G aims to solve similar problems, it typically introduces significant complexity.

Private 5G requires a fully separate infrastructure, including a dedicated 5G core network, SIM management, and specialized client support. In contrast, URWB can deliver comparable functionality in many scenarios without this added complexity.

Unlike in the past, URWB no longer operates as a standalone network.

It can now be deployed alongside Wi-Fi, with activation requiring only minor configuration changes in Catalyst or Meraki cloud controllers. This enables organizations to benefit from lower latency and seamless roaming. 

Looking ahead, URWB has the potential to compete with—or complement—Private 5G. While 5G continues to evolve as a broad ecosystem, it also carries inherent complexity. URWB, on the other hand, is a mature technology that relies on multiple access points for communication and is currently supported by a limited number of vendors, including Cisco. 

Whether one will replace the other remains uncertain.

 Each technology serves distinct use cases and deployment models.

Solutions

Cisco Wireless Access Points:

• Cisco Wireless 9178
• Cisco Wireless 9176
• Cisco Catalyst 9166
• Cisco Catalyst 9136
• Cisco Catalyst 9130
• Cisco Catalyst 9124

Cisco Catalyst Industrial Wireless (IW) Products:

• Cisco Catalyst IW9167 Heavy Duty Series Access Points
• Cisco Catalyst IW9165E Rugged Access Point and Wireless Client
• Cisco Catalyst IW9165D Heavy Duty Access Point
• Cisco IEC6400 Edge Compute Appliance

Management Solutions:

• Cisco Catalyst Center
• Cisco Industrial Wireless Service
• Cisco Industrial Wireless Monitor

Conclusion

If your environment includes devices that require continuous mobility, real-time control, or mission-critical monitoring, you should ask:

“Is my wireless network reliable enough to guarantee zero packet loss and uninterrupted connectivity?”

Today, connectivity is not a luxury!

It is a fundamental requirement for modern operations and applications.

For more information about Cisco URWB, click here.