Qualcomm StreamBoost Will Control, Optimize Wi-Fi Networks
StreamBoost should help control and optimize applications on 802.11ac-based networks.
Qualcomm said on Friday that it will be showcasing StreamBoost technology for 802.11ac routers and gateways during CES 2013 in Las Vegas. Developed by subsidiary Qualcomm Atheros, this new tech will give each device and each application the bandwidth it needs to ensure the best possible experiences in the connected home.
"StreamBoost provides users with advanced control over their home networks to enable the first truly smart, connected homes," said Frank Azor, general manager, Alienware. "This technology will provide gamers with a more reliable and better performing online gaming experience, whether there are two, 12 or 20 devices using the network simultaneously."
According to the company, StreamBoost takes 802.11ac networking to the next level by managing and "shaping" network traffic. Each connected device and application will be given priority and bandwidth for optimal performance so that Black Ops II Zombies doesn't lag, or an episode of Glee streamed from Netflix doesn't pause during a juicy scene.
In addition to "shaping" network connections, StreamBoost also incorporates an opt-in, cloud-based service that continually increases the intelligence of the router. This will identify and optimally manage new applications as they're added to the network, the company said.
"StreamBoost's interface makes understanding and using routers more intuitive than ever before," Qualcomm said. "For the first time, users can view all computers, tablets, phones and other connected devices on the home's network -- as well as the applications they are using, and the real-time bandwidth usage of each application and device -- on one easy-to-use StreamBoost interface."
StreamBoost routers will be available to consumers this spring at e-commerce and retail outlets in North America, Europe and Asia. Meanwhile, Alienware and D-Link Systems, Inc. will be demonstrating StreamBoost routers based on Qualcomm VIVE 802.11ac technology for Gigabit-class Wi-Fi at CES 2013. Qualcomm said it will also be showcasing its own VIVE 802.11ac router products during the show, so we'll drop by and see what that's all about.
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Kevin Parrish has over a decade of experience as a writer, editor, and product tester. His work focused on computer hardware, networking equipment, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and other internet-connected devices. His work has appeared in Tom's Hardware, Tom's Guide, Maximum PC, Digital Trends, Android Authority, How-To Geek, Lifewire, and others.
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lo @ above comment.. but seriously does anyone see the advertising potential with this move? Good on them!Reply
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A Bad Day My dad bought a IEEE 802.11n router that didn't support Quality of Service (aka Torrent and Netflix gets the same priority as gaming or VoIP), nor did it have the processing power to properly handle more than one computer without having like 2% packet loss and +500 ms ping.Reply
I can imagine a StreamBoost router that has the same issue. Pathetic processor and lack of essential software features. -
alextheblue A Bad DayMy dad bought a IEEE 802.11n router that didn't support Quality of Service (aka Torrent and Netflix gets the same priority as gaming or VoIP), nor did it have the processing power to properly handle more than one computer without having like 2% packet loss and +500 ms ping.I can imagine a StreamBoost router that has the same issue. Pathetic processor and lack of essential software features.You contradict yourself here. StreamBoost is like an advanced, automated (cloud-updated) QoS. So you're comparing a dumb, slow router with no QoS at all to a router with an advanced QoS... and your conclusion is that it will be the same???Reply
Regardless, you get what you pay for applies here. Personally I've got an E2500 right now, and it gets the job done. Performance, reliability, and simultaneous dual-band N. Not as nice as its fancier big brothers, but still not bad at all for ~$80. There's a couple of nice Asus and D-Link routers in the same price range too and the E2700 is on sale on Newegg too. That's about the minimum I'd spend on a router these days.