FirstNet in action

Agencies on FirstNet that need enhanced communications for an emergency can request support with a single phone call. The Response Operations Group – a team led by former first responders helps identify the solutions you need and deploys to support public safety. This allows first responders to communicate and coordinate their emergency response, or aid in recovery, even in the hardest hit areas or most remote parts of the country.​ This team sets FirstNet apart from commercial networks.

ROG assists in deploying more than 180 dedicated deployable network assets – including Satellite Cells on Light Trucks (SatCOLTs) and Cells on Wheels (COWs). These are mobile cell sites that link to FirstNet via satellite. They don’t rely on commercial power availability, and they provide first responders with connectivity capabilities much like a cell tower.

For the SatCOLTs and COWs, FirstNet follows a 14-hour (or less) delivery objective following the initial emergency request. ROG will evaluate and prioritize requests from public safety agencies on FirstNet, based on the National Incident Management System. Please note it may not be possible to accommodate all requests.

Security is the cornerstone of the FirstNet network. Integral to FirstNet capabilities is a dedicated Security Operations Center (SOC) as well as a security engineering organization, both staffed by FirstNet security experts. The SOC monitors and manages FirstNet traffic 24x7.

Further reinforcing the reliability of FirstNet, we've gone farther than anyone in the industry to secure public safety's communications. FirstNet is now the first-ever nationwide network with comprehensive tower-to-core network encryption based on open industry standards. Since FirstNet is designed with a defense-in-depth security strategy that goes well beyond standard commercial network security measures, first responders have superior protection without sacrificing usability or impacting public safety’s missions.

Deployables are available to all FirstNet agencies and can be requested by contacting your FirstNet specialist or through FirstNet Central. Alternatively, you can call FirstNet care team at 800.574.7000 and say ‘deployable’ when prompted.

Yes, the Response Operations Group also supports FirstNet customers at emergent and large planned events. Our team coordinates a network assessment to determine what is needed to support network and connectivity.

Public safety agencies on FirstNet can request equipment for added support at large, planned events.  This equipment is designed to keep FirstNet users connected and give first responders the coverage and communications they need to support their communities. 

FirstNet has supported national sporting events like the Final Four at the Alamodome in San Antonio and pro football's Big Game; additionally, FirstNet has supported agencies as they gear up for community festivals, concerts, and more. Speak with a consultant to learn more about how FirstNet can support your large, planned event.

FirstNet can provide on-site and remote support based on the ROG assessment and the needs of public safety.

The dedicated, FirstNet evolved packet core gives public safety the separate, highly secure, non-commercial network they deserve. In addition, the dedicated FirstNet Security Operations Center monitors the network 24x7 for physical and cyber threats and the physically-separate FirstNet core has available end-to-end encryption.