Understanding the Transition
The MG90 router series, long used by utility, municipal, and public safety fleets, is now entering its End-of-Life (EOL) phase. Departments that have relied on the MG90 or other EOL AirLink products should evaluate their options for maintaining secure, high-performance connectivity across their vehicles.
EOL milestones include the last opportunity to purchase and ship products in 2025, a phase-out of software maintenance by 2028, the end of extended repairs by 2030, and the sunset of AM/AMM management support in 2033. To ensure ongoing connectivity, reliable operations, and compliance with cybersecurity best practices, organizations are encouraged to make proactive migration plans..
Key MG90 End-of-Life Dates
- Last Time Buy: June 30, 2025
- Last Time Ship: December 31, 2025
- Active Software Maintenance: Through December 31, 2026 (bug fixes and security patches)
- Critical Software Maintenance: Through December 31, 2028 (security issues only)
- Warranty Expiration: December 31, 2028
- Extended Repairs End: December 31, 2030
- AMM Management Support End: December 31, 2033
Continuing to use MG90 beyond these dates leaves organizations at risk of service interruptions, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, spare parts shortages, and lack of management platform support.
Risks of Running MG90 Devices Post-EOL
- Decreased Reliability: Components and software will no longer receive support or updates, leading to increased chance of downtime.
- Security Exposure: Unpatched vulnerabilities can compromise sensitive data and system integrity.
- Operational Delays: Hardware and parts availability will diminish, potentially causing extended outages.
- Loss of Management: After 2033, AMM platform support will conclude, limiting centralized control options.
Next-Generation Router Solutions
A range of high-performance routing platforms is available, with options that build on the core strengths of MG90 and introduce new functionalities to support emerging fleet connectivity needs.
AirLink XR Series
The AirLink XR series (including XR80 and XR90 models) offers next-generation capabilities such as 5G performance, Wi-Fi 6, modular configuration, and robust security for essential and advanced mission-critical vehicle applications.
- XR80: Flexible, modular, and expandable for evolving fleet needs; suitable for wired and wireless connectivity, with options for dual 5G radios.
- XR90: High-capacity, dual-radio model for fleets needing maximum throughput, multi-network redundancy, and seamless integration with modern vehicle applications (cameras, telematics, license plate recognition).
Alternative Connectivity Platforms
For organizations interested in exploring other vendors, both Ericsson and Digi International provide capable alternatives:
- Ericsson Cradlepoint R980 / R1900: Designed for mobile environments, offering advanced 5G connectivity, robust GPS, edge computing, and NetCloud management. Particularly effective for use cases such as asset tracking and vehicle telematics.
- Digi International TX54 / TX64: Purpose-built for transportation, offering flexible LTE/5G connectivity, multi-carrier support, and Digi Remote Manager for centralized oversight and robust cybersecurity.
Considerations for Asset Tracking
Departments requiring specific asset tracking functions, such as RFID-based temperature monitoring, should carefully assess feature sets across their shortlisted platforms. Some solutions, like the Cradlepoint R1900, accommodate advanced asset tracking, but may require adoption of a separate management platform (NetCloud) alongside existing monitoring tools.
Building Your Migration Strategy
To ensure a seamless transition from MG90 (or other EOL routers) to new, supported infrastructure, a disciplined approach is critical:
- Assess Current Deployments: Audit your existing hardware, software, and in-vehicle applications to identify operational needs.
- Match Platform to Requirements: Align your fleet profile to the most appropriate device—whether AirLink XR series, Cradlepoint, or Digi—based on bandwidth, redundancy, management preferences, and budget.
- Pilot and Test: Run lab and field pilots to validate functionality, network performance, and management integration.
- Plan a Phased Rollout: Prioritize upgrades in vehicles at highest risk or with the most immediate operational needs.
- Management Integration: Ensure compatibility with fleet management, AVL, CAD, video, and security platforms; consider mixed-fleet management scenarios if required.
- Prepare Teams: Train personnel, establish support protocols, and update operational procedures.
Tip: If retaining MG90 assets short-term, verify that firmware is current to prevent AM/AMM management disruptions from certificate expirations in 2025.
Expert Support for Every Path
Navigating a technology transition can be complex. Our team delivers expert assessment, migration planning, multi-vendor evaluation, and ongoing support—helping you build a resilient, high-performance communications network tailored to your fleet’s needs.
Whether your priority is consistency, new functionality, or evaluating all available options, you can confidently maintain operational readiness, reliability, and security.
For guidance on your MG90 transition and the best-fit connectivity platform for your fleet, contact our solutions experts today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When can I last purchase and deploy MG90 routers?
Last Time Buy: June 30, 2025. Last Time Ship: December 31, 2025.
How long will software and management support last?
Software bug fixes and patches continue through 2026, security remediation through 2028, and management platform support through 2033.
If I want to consider alternatives, what are my options?
Depending on your requirements, evaluate AirLink XR80 or XR90, Cradlepoint R1900 or R2100, and Digi TX54 or TX64.
Will I need to run multiple management platforms?
Possibly, especially if deploying a mixed fleet. For example, Cradlepoint solutions are managed via NetCloud, Digi via Digi Remote Manager, and AirLink routers via ALMS or AMM. Though consolidated true-single pane of glass solutions are available from our team as well.
What about specialized applications like asset tracking?
Identify your current and future needs for features such as RFID asset monitoring and confirm compatibility with your shortlisted solutions before proceeding.
About MCA
We believe every workplace should be safe, secure, and efficient. As trusted advisors, we deliver integrated communication, connectivity, and security solutions with a Service First mindset – driven by a team that cares deeply about our customers and each other.
Why MCA? At MCA, we help solve critical communication, connectivity, and security challenges with turnkey, integrated system solutions—from two-way radios and in-building wireless to video surveillance, access control, and more. MCA is built from over 50 companies with deep technical expertise and strong local roots. And we’re still growing—expanding our capabilities, our reach, and our team.
Our 100+ Solution Centers bring together sales, installation, service, and customer operations teams to deliver seamless, nationwide support. Guided by our Service First value, we don’t just connect the wires and walk away—we provide customized solutions backed by deep expertise and lifecycle support.
