Wireless Communications for Disaster Relief Agencies

Wireless Communications for Disaster Relief Agencies

Jesse HallCradlepoint, MCA News

Enhancing Disaster Relief Communications with Cradlepoint Technology

Cradlepoint Solutions for Fixed and Mobile Disaster Response

Disaster relief agencies operate at the front lines of crisis response, deploying to regions struck by natural disasters, conflicts, and other emergencies. Their mission is multifaceted: to provide immediate relief, support recovery efforts, and mitigate the impact of future disasters. The scope of their work encompasses a broad range of activities from delivering essential supplies and medical care to rebuilding infrastructure and providing psychological support. These organizations must be agile and responsive, as they often work under extreme conditions where rapid changes are the norm and the stakes are exceptionally high.

The environments in which disaster relief teams operate are diverse and challenging. From the chaotic aftermath of earthquakes and hurricanes to the structured chaos of refugee camps, the settings are unpredictable, often lacking basic infrastructure like stable electricity and secure buildings. Communication in such conditions becomes a lifeline that coordinates the myriad activities essential to effective disaster response.

For these agencies, robust communication systems are not just beneficial—they are crucial.

In the office, reliable internet and network connectivity ensure that planning, logistics, and coordination happen seamlessly. Data needs to flow unhindered to and from the field, informing decision-makers and enabling them to manage resources efficiently.

In the field, the scenario demands even more resilience. Here, communications technology must withstand harsh environments and provide consistent connectivity. Teams rely heavily on mobile networks to coordinate rescue efforts, relay real-time information back to headquarters, and connect with local and international teams.


The challenge is to maintain these communications capabilities continuously, despite the often adverse conditions. This is where innovative solutions, such as deployable networks and mobile routers, become indispensable, ensuring that no matter the location, disaster relief agencies can keep their operations running and help those in need.

Wireless Communications for Disaster Relief Agencies

Solutions from Cradlepoint and MCA


In the wake of natural disasters, establishing reliable and rapid-response communication networks is crucial for effective disaster relief and recovery operations. MCA's CNS team, an Elite 5G Certified Resale Partner of Cradlepoint, offers advanced connectivity solutions specifically designed for the challenging conditions of disaster-stricken areas.

Cradlepoint’s branch and mobile routing solutions provide immediate, reliable connectivity for disaster response teams working in temporary relief sites or directly in the field. These include the compact Cradlepoint E300 branch router for office setups and the rugged Cradlepoint R1900 for mobile operations, both equipped to handle the demanding environments of disaster zones.

Compact Branch Connectivity

Cradlepoint E300 Routers

The Cradlepoint E300 is ideal for establishing command centers in temporary offices within or near disaster zones. This compact branch router supports high-speed Internet with cellular failover capabilities, ensuring uninterrupted operations. It is particularly useful for managing logistics, coordinating relief efforts, and maintaining communication with various stakeholders involved in disaster management.

Mobile and Field Connectivity

Cradlepoint R1900 Routers

The Cradlepoint R1900 offers a durable solution for on-the-ground activities to endure the harsh conditions often encountered in disaster areas. This router can be installed in relief vehicles or integrated with MCA’s TRaCK box, a portable networking kit that promotes greater mobility and flexibility. The R1900’s robust connectivity is essential for real-time data exchange and effective coordination of relief efforts directly from the field.

Centralized Communications and Connectivity Management

Cradlepoint NetCloud for Branch and Mobile Services

The E300 and R1900 utilize Cradlepoint’s NetCloud Service, which allows for comprehensive management and monitoring of network activities via a cloud-based platform. This feature is critical for rapidly identifying and resolving connectivity issues ensuring that communication lines remain operational during relief operations.

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Proven Reliability in Emergency Situations


Cradlepoint routers have been instrumental in numerous global disaster responses, providing essential connectivity solutions that aid response teams and affected communities. Whether it’s ensuring secure networks for emergency services or offering open Wi-Fi for displaced individuals to contact loved ones, Cradlepoint’s technology facilitates crucial communication links that can significantly impact relief outcomes.

"Cradlepoint’s technology enables us to almost immediately set up a temporary Internet connection while we work on building a more permanent network,” states the CEO of a disaster tech organization, highlighting the speed and reliability of Cradlepoint solutions in emergency scenarios.

The agility and robustness of Cradlepoint’s networking solutions make them indispensable tools in disaster response and recovery operations. MCA’s provision of these technologies ensures that emergency responders have access to reliable, secure, and quick-to-deploy communication networks, crucial for mitigating the impacts of disasters and aiding in swift recovery efforts.

About MCA and Our CNS Team


MCA is one of the largest and most trusted integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives. More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace.

Our Cellular Networking Solutions (CNS) team (formerly known as USAT) is made up of certified experts in designing and deploying fixed and mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for public and private enterprises nationwide - complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts.

Our extensive Cradlepoint catalog of world-class routers, gateways, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments allows us to deliver a full suite of reliable technologies capped with a service-first approach.


Contact Our CNS Team >>

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