Powering more connected communities
Read the Whitepaper
Wireless Graph Networks: A solution that enables Gigabit Access for everyone
Learn how Common's WGN approach allows for Gigagbit speeds on a network with build costs 90% lower than fiber-to-the-home.
Our Network
Home by home, block by block
We’re developing a new decentralized model for high-speed networking – using wireless hardware, smart software, and graph-based networking to pioneer the next generation of home internet access.
When a customer joins our network, their home wirelessly receives signals from nearby rooftop hardware. And their equipment can also relay signals to other homes, expanding coverage and access for their neighbors.
Versus a traditional hub-and-spoke wireless network, our graph-based approach means more people can access a high-speed connection, with only a few sites needing to be directly connected to a fiber source.
Our Hardware
Cutting edge cord cutting
Over the last decade, wireless technology has gotten faster, cheaper, and smaller (our cell phones are a daily reminder). But until recently, these improvements haven’t impacted how we get online at home.
We believe that unlicensed wireless bands are critical for the next generation of access. Using a combination of microwave and millimeter wave technology (5 GHz and 60 GHz), our wireless data speeds can finally be on par with wired connectivity.
To develop our hardware, we take advantage of deep supply chains, combining proven off-the-shelf components in an unconventional way. This means reliable and innovative hardware, at a fraction of prior costs.
Our Software
Built-in air traffic control
Our software helps coordinate everything within our distributed network – balancing traffic, optimizing signal strength, and detecting problems.
Our routing algorithm guarantees that every home takes the best path back to a fiber connection. With smart software running in every home system, we avoid traffic jams, slowdowns, and disruptions.
If something ever goes wrong with your setup, your neighbors’ systems can detect an issue, and work to get you back online – fixing bugs and reconfiguring settings. Literally, help is always next door.
Hardware & Software
Technical Specs
Rooftop Radios & Antennas
In-Home Access Point
Common Networks Outdoor Router
Network
About our technology
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my neighbor turns their power off?
Our network is built with multiple points of redundancy, and customers have more than one path back to the internet. So if your neighbor changes providers or turns off their equipment, our software ensures your home stays connected.
Are the antennas emitting radio waves that are potentially harmful?
Our FCC-approved radios are similar to the 5 GHz antenna in your wifi router and cell phone – but the total transmit power for our antennas is 5-10 times less than your cell phone.
Does the weather affect your wireless signal or equipment?
"Rain fade" is a phenomenon where droplets of water in the air can impact a wireless signal. However, because our signal typically operates on the lower end of the frequency spectrum and is broadcast over relatively short distances, rain fade should not affect the performance of your connection.
How is your equipment powered?
Our equipment is powered from a standard 110V power supply inside your home. All of our equipment draws less power than a standard lightbulb.
Our vision
Your internet service partner
Common Networks is dedicated to transforming what you expect from your home internet.
Resources
2020 Common Networks, Inc.