GenX Wi-Fi, founded and led by Antonio Barcenes and supported by head technician Jeff Arita, is a New York-based technology provider specializing in delivering rapid and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity at major events. Originating from the frustration of poor connectivity at music festivals, GenX Wi-Fi has rapidly expanded its services, providing temporary and permanent solutions to globally recognized brands such as Victoria's Secret, Lululemon, Red Bull, and Circle Loco.
Rapid Deployment Event setups often occur in tight windows, sometimes as little as 10-12 hours before doors open.
Robust Connectivity Reliable Wi-Fi for thousands of attendees and critical event operations.
Flexibility & Adaptability Managing last-minute venue challenges, such as delayed power availability and difficult physical environments.
Cost-Efficiency Clients frequently seek affordable solutions without sacrificing quality.
GenX Wi-Fi selected UniFi due to its combination of ease of deployment, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Antonio Barcenes emphasizes that UniFi hardware requires minimal pre-configuration compared to other solutions like Ruckus or Cisco, allowing their team to adapt quickly to unpredictable site conditions.
Antonio Barcenes, CEO, GenX Wi-Fi
The iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returned to New York City in 2024, held at the expansive Brooklyn Navy Yard. This prestigious, globally-streamed event demanded absolute reliability and seamless connectivity across five separate buildings. GenX Wi-Fi deployed UniFi’s U6 Mesh APs and the Enterprise Firewall Gateway (EFG), which provided robust, secure internet connectivity. Using UniFi Flex PoE Switches ensured centralized and simplified power management across all locations. Connectivity between buildings was flawlessly handled by UISP Wave and the Building-to-Building Bridge (UBB), delivering a high-speed, stable network for attendees and critical event operations. The deployment, completed comfortably within a week, demonstrated GenX Wi-Fi’s capacity to deliver high-performance connectivity under the pressures of a high-profile event.
Circle Loco, internationally renowned for its vibrant music events, turned to GenX Wi-Fi for its intricate multi-building events in New York City. Each event required seamless integration of high-performance networking and comprehensive security solutions. GenX Wi-Fi responded by deploying UDM Pro Max as the powerful core router, complemented by U6 Mesh and U6 Pro Access Points to guarantee extensive wireless coverage. For enhanced security and event oversight, UniFi Protect cameras were integrated seamlessly. UniFi Building-to-Building Bridges (UBB) ensured reliable interconnectivity between venues, allowing attendees and production staff uninterrupted internet access. These consistently successful deployments have solidified GenX Wi-Fi’s reputation for reliability in complex environments.
The Lululemon Glowup Studio was a sophisticated and immersive pop-up event located in a two-story Manhattan venue. Designed to engage influencers, celebrity trainers, and the public, this event demanded aesthetically pleasing and reliable connectivity for streaming live DJ performances and supporting real-time social media interactions. GenX Wi-Fi deployed UniFi Pro 48 and Flex switches, complemented by ten discreet U6 Mesh Access Points strategically placed to maintain visual aesthetics. Customized white Ethernet cables ensured seamless integration into the venue's premium decor. Additionally, a dedicated hardline was provided for a celebrity-focused "Glambot" camera, mirroring red-carpet style photo opportunities. The smooth operation of this deployment contributed significantly to the overall event success, highlighting GenX Wi-Fi’s ability to merge technology seamlessly with premium brand experiences.
GenX Wi-Fi continues to expand its reach and technical capabilities, focusing on:
1. Enterprise-Grade Solutions Moving towards UniFi's enterprise gear and Wi-Fi 7 APs for larger and more demanding events.
2. Enhanced Security and Control Increased deployments of UniFi Protect cameras and UniFi Access solutions to provide complete event control centers.
3. Expanding Geographic Reach Successfully executing complex deployments internationally, including festivals in remote locations such as Costa Rica.
Initially, Lance and his team considered staying with HP Enterprise/Aruba or migrating to Cisco Meraki, but two factors changed their direction:
1. Supply Chain Delays: HP’s product availability led to extended timelines.
2. Cost and Licensing: Competing solutions brought higher upfront costs and recurring licenses.
Jeff Arita, Head Technician, GenX Wi-Fi
By leveraging the ease of deployment, cost efficiency, and scalability of UniFi technology, GenX Wi-Fi has established itself as a leader in rapid, reliable event connectivity. With ongoing expansion and innovation in enterprise solutions and security, GenX Wi-Fi is poised to redefine what's possible in event technology infrastructure.
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