NetActuate Launches C-Band Transition Acceleration Program

NetActuate, a network operator, has announced the launch of its C-Band Transition Acceleration Program, which will help United States broadcasters migrate from satellite to terrestrial IP. The program, introduced at the NAB show, now operates on the company's new Media Substrate, a transport layer set to debut at the IBC 2026 event.

The program provides a measured, redundant path for broadcasters to transition off C-band satellite, allowing them to leverage NetActuate's existing network infrastructure. Mark Mahle, CEO of NetActuate, stated, "Every feed still on C-band needs somewhere to go before the spectrum goes, and the stations moving now get to do it on their own terms instead of against the clock."

NetActuate operates in 22 locations across the United States, covering major media markets, with a presence in over 45 global locations. The Media Substrate supports eleven protocols, including SRT, RIST, UDP, MPTS, MoQ, ST 2022-7, SMPTE ST 2110, RTMP, WebRTC, WHIP, and WHEP, enabling station groups to use their existing encoders. The substrate routes around congestion automatically, providing a reliable path even in challenging network conditions.

For broadcasters concerned about the last mile, NetActuate offers flexible options. Stations can take a dedicated circuit, hand the last mile to NetActuate to manage, or pair a satellite link, mixing them across a broader footprint. The regulatory clock is pushing the industry to move, with the July 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act mandating a competitive bidding auction of the upper C-band by July 4, 2027. The FCC has already advanced the rulemaking process, further accelerating the transition.

The transition is also happening amid industry consolidation, leaving broadcasters with fewer and larger incumbents to choose from. NetActuate remains an independent network operator, not a satellite company or a reseller of one. Mahle added, "We can turn a path up today. You send us the feed, we run two paths underneath it, and you never buy the second circuit."

The C-Band Transition Acceleration Program is available now, with the Media Substrate sold under Networking in the NetActuate portal in Managed and Custom tiers. More information can be found at netactuate.com/c-band-transition.