AT&T announces nationwide launch of FirstNet

By PoliceOne Staff

DALLAS — AT&T announced the official, nationwide launch of FirstNet.

According to a press release, the FirstNet evolved packet core is now live, which means first responders nationwide will now have access to their own broadband network that is currently being certified by the First Responder Network Authority.

“This is what public safety has spent years advocating for,” Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communication System Executive Director Scott Edson said. “We knew giving first responders a network that they could truly call their own was possible from our work on LA-RICS – 1 of 5 FirstNet early builder projects. But to see public safety’s network core roar to life nationwide, well, there are no words for how meaningful that is. We at LA-RICS look forward to connecting our sites to the FirstNet network core.”

The evolved packet core:

Controls the FirstNet experience. Processes vital public safety information. Unlocks critical capabilities such as First Priority to help agencies respond to incidents. Forms the basis for a unified, nationwide public safety communication system. The evolved packet core was created based on objectives derived from years of consultation with the First Responder Network Authority.

“Outdated communications capabilities are a threat to public safety,” former Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis said. “We’ve seen it repeatedly when disasters strike – from September 11, the Boston Marathon and Parkland. “Those on the front lines can now evolve the way we communicate, using mission-critical text and data on top of voice to ensure we are connected to as much information as possible to achieve our missions. Because the more connected we can be, the more protected we can be.”