Intel scoops up Rivet Networks to boost Wi-Fi portfolio

Intel has acquired Rivet Networks, the maker of Killer-branded network interface cards (NICs) found in laptops from the likes of Dell, Alienware and HP.

According to Intel’s announcement, acquiring Rivet Networks will help the company as it scales its PC Wi-Fi portfolio. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

“Rivet Networks is a terrific complement to our existing Wi-Fi products and helps us further our vision of delivering PC platforms that power every person’s greatest contribution,” Chris Walker, vice president and general manager of Intel's mobile client platforms group, shared.

Intel plans to integrate Rivet Networks' key products, including its Killer brand, into its PC Wi-Fi portfolio, and also plans to license Rivet Networks' software to its customers. As for its employees, Rivet Networks’ team members will join Intel’s wireless solutions group within the tech company’s Client Computing Group.

The acquisition of Rivet Networks is no surprise, as the companies have worked together in the past. Most recently, Intel and Rivet Networks teamed up to build the Killer AX1650 Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) wireless adapter, which was designed to “deliver immersive entertainment and gaming experiences along with powerful Wi-Fi 6 technology.”

In its announcement, Walker also shared that Intel remains committed to leading the development and testing of Wi-Fi 6 technologies. The company has already delivered the world’s first Wi-Fi 6 client for PCs and has conducted interoperability testing with Cisco, Aruba, Broadcom, Qualcomm and Microsoft. The company also continues to work with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) when it comes to ensuring interoperability, driving innovation and “[advocating] for spectrum and certification policy issues.

Walker concluded the announcement of the acquisition by adding, “We are committed to enabling our customers to deliver the best PC experiences, especially when we have become more reliant on technology.

"We know how important connectivity is in enriching our lives. We will keep you updated on our progress and look forward to having the Rivet Networks team as part of the Intel family, developing technologies that matter to you.”