Versa Networks released a 5G extender aimed at fixing weak cellular signals in branch network closets.

The power-over-Ethernet (PoE) device lets enterprises place the 5G radio where signal is often strongest – near windows, rooftops, or building edges – while continuing to manage connectivity through existing Versa Secure SD-WAN infrastructure.

“Enterprises increasingly rely on 5G for rapid site turn-up, business continuity, and resilient WAN connectivity, but integrated 5G hardware is too often deployed exactly where radio conditions are worst," Rahul Vaidya, senior director of product management at Versa, noted.

The device connects back to the SD-WAN appliance over Ethernet and is powered through PoE, avoiding the need for additional power in most cases. It extends 5G WAN connectivity to Versa CSG appliances, Versa-qualified Dell Technologies platforms, and white-box CPE.

Versa is positioning the extender as a native part of its SD-WAN platform. Once deployed, it appears as a standard interface in the Versa software, meaning traffic steering, security policy, and service-level agreement (SLA) monitoring apply to the 5G link the same way they do for wired connections. That removes the need for separate management tools often required with standalone cellular gateways.

The extender also includes dual-SIM support for carrier redundancy. IT teams can switch providers remotely based on signal quality or cost without sending a technician on site. SD-WAN probes and traffic controls help manage performance and usage across wireless links, which can be metered.

Versa is targeting several enterprise use cases, including rapid branch turn-up for retail and temporary sites, wireless failover for business-critical locations, and primary WAN connectivity in rural or hard-to-wire environments. It also addresses deployments in sectors like health care, manufacturing, and warehousing where network closets are often located in areas with poor signal.