MetTel's CTO on the evolving managed services landscape

Broadband Pulse

For this episode of the Broadband Pulse Podcast, Lightwave+BTR editor-in-chief Sean Buckley talked to Ed Fox, MetTel's Chief Technology Officer (CTO). He oversees MetTel’s broadband, data, and VoIP network infrastructure planning, deployment, and operations.

A 30-year telecom and networking veteran, Fox has broad experience managing massive organizational and customer growth at major telecommunications providers.

In addition to his duties at MetTel, Fox is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and a contributing author for the IDG influencer network.

One of MetTel’s latest moves was becoming an Authorized Starlink Reseller for government and commercial enterprises to extend its managed service suite to more locations. MetTel has also been an aggressive player in the burgeoning SD-WAN and SASE market segments.

Here's a timeline of the interview's key moments:

Opening 0.00

Host introduction of guest | 0:21

MetTel’s key priorities for the remainder of 2024 and into 2025 | 0:45

Becoming an Authorized Starlink Reseller for both government and commercial enterprises. | 2:20

Using Starlink satellite connections as a primary/secondary business connection. | 5:19

MetTel’s Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) voice line replacement service. | 6:12

SD-WAN opportunities| 8:38

How being an early SD-WAN adopter is a differentiator. | 9:58

The growth of Ethernet and other access platforms for businesses. | 11:04

The role of automation. |12:12

Cybersecurity trends |15:04

Retaining a spot on the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Managed Network Services.| 16:41

Final thoughts | 19:03

About the Podcast
In the Lightwave Broadband Pulse podcast, we address the key issues affecting the optical and broadband industry segments. Join us every week for insights from industry leaders on these topics.