What is paging?
Paging is one of the most resilient and cost-effective ways to communicate with numerous people simultaneously and pagers play a vital role in keeping staff and mobile workers informed in organisations throughout the UK. Critico’s national paging network covers nearly all of the UK’s population, sending messages to pager alert numbers anywhere within this radio coverage area.

What kind of paging systems are there?
There are two distinct categories of paging systems in operation. On-site paging systems are used in buildings/small sites and Public Wide Area paging which provides coverage across the UK using multiple transmitters. With Critico’s latest 2-way pagers you can see real-time message delivery status, read receipts and message replies – as well as staff status updates and GPS location information. Our enhanced 2-way pagers also offer multi-network resilience.

Is paging suitable for critical alerting?
Yes. Critico uses its own private paging network to send paging messages across the UK. This means that in times of public crisis the network is protected from public access overload – common on mobile networks. This level of resilience makes our paging network ideal for communications during emergencies, therefore forming an essential part of Incident Management or Business Continuity plans.

How reliable is paging?
Critico’s paging network broadcasts messages in real-time, ideal for sending large amounts of information or to large groups of people at the same time. This means messages are delivered consistently, even in peak periods and one message can be received by thousands of people at the same time. It is for these reasons many organisations use paging for critical alerting, operational messaging and status monitoring, providing a cost-effective, more reliable and consistent service than any of the alternatives available today.

Are pagers complicated to use?
No. Pagers are simple and very straightforward devices. They can be used in very sensitive environments such as communications and data centres, hospitals, aeroplanes and electronic equipment rooms. Paging receivers can also be installed in other electronic devices such as signs and telemetry systems so coupled with its inherent ability to address many thousands of paging receivers at once, is ideal for real-time, group broadcasts and high volume data applications.

Can paging integrate with other IT systems?
It is very easy to send paging messages using various methods to integrate into an organisation’s back office or IT systems. Critico has an extensive list of computer API protocols such as our REST API.

Looking for a 2-way communications system?
With Critico’s latest 2-way pagers you can receive real-time message delivery status, message replies, staff status updates and GPS location information – on top of all the usual benefits of Critico paging.

Please contact us today by clicking here or calling our team on 0333 200 5033.

The post Why use paging in 2026? appeared first on Critico.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming nearly every aspect of modern communication, and the two-way radio industry is no exception. Traditionally designed for straightforward voice transmission, radios have now evolved into intelligent communication devices capable of adapting to their surroundings, filtering out distractions, and enhancing overall performance in critical environments.

A good example of this advancement is Motorola Solutions’ MOTOTRBO™ R5, which incorporates AI-powered noise suppression. This technology analyses audio in real time, identifying and isolating the speaker’s voice from background noise such as engines, alarms, or crowds. The result is crystal-clear communication, even in loud, complex environments. This demonstrates how AI can directly improve reliability, efficiency, and safety in everyday radio use.

Beyond noise suppression, AI’s potential in two-way radio systems extends much further. AI can also help with device maintenance. By monitoring usage patterns, battery performance, and signal quality, intelligent systems can identify potential faults or predict when a maintenance check is due before any downtime occurs. This kind of proactive monitoring helps organisations maintain reliable communication channels without unnecessary disruptions

Another exciting development lies in natural language processing (NLP) and real-time translation. With AI-driven translation tools, radio communication between multilingual teams can become seamless, removing barriers in global operations. This can be especially valuable in logistics, events, and emergency response, where teams from different regions often need to work together.

As two-way radios continue to integrate with broader digital ecosystems, such as dispatch platforms, IoT sensors, and workforce management systems AI serves as the bridge connecting all these components. While still developing, AI may have the potential to automate data logging, prioritise messages based on urgency, and analyse communication patterns to optimise workflow.

The integration of AI into two-way radios signals a major shift in how organisations approach communication. What was once purely reactive and voice-based is becoming predictive, data-driven, and intelligent. Teams can operate with greater confidence knowing that their communication systems are not just transmitting messages, but actively enhancing clarity, awareness, and safety.

Artificial Intelligence is strengthening the reliability that two-way radios are known for. By combining traditional radio resilience with intelligent features like noise suppression, analytics, and automation, the future of two-way communication is becoming clearer, smarter, and more connected than ever.

For more information on improving your teams workflows, communication and performance contact our radio team.

The post AI and Two-Way Radios: The Next Generation of Clear Communication appeared first on Critico.

Security is at the heart of Critico’s messaging services. In line with industry standards and best practice we will be renewing our TLS certificates for the oventus.com domain on available from 27th November 2025.

What does it mean for me?

You will NOT need to do anything if you access Critico services from a standard browser (e.g. Connect/Flare) as the new TLS certificate should be automatically updated by your browser.

However, if you use systems/software that uses Critico REST or SOAP API services on any of the following URL’s, and your application is unable to auto accept the updated certificate chain, you will need to download the new certificate from https://pop.oventus.com (available from 27th November 2025) and preload into your TLS/SSL keystores.  Please note that many third-party applications will auto-accept the new certificate and the need to manually download and apply the new certificate will be the exception.  If in doubt, please refer to your software application provider

• www.oventus.com
• m2m.oventus.com
• soap.oventus.com
• rest.oventus.com

And your application is unable to auto accept the updated certificate chain, you will need to download the new certificate from

https://pop.oventus.com (available from 27th November 2025) and preload into your TLS/SSL keystores.

NOTE: The new TLS certificate will be pre-loaded to our live services as of 2nd December 2025 so that you can use either the current or new certificate up until 5th December 2025, whereupon only the new certificate will apply.

Please contact our Customer Support team via customersupport@criticogroup.purelywebsite.com or 0333 200 5033 if you experience any issues as a result of the above certificate change.

How to download a new certificate:

Visit the URL (pop.oventus.com), right click the padlock in the location bar which brings up the properties of the certificate.

Click on the ‘Details’ tab and then export the new certificate.  You can then preload the new certificate into your TLS/SSL keystores of your application.

The post TLS Certificate Renewal 2025 appeared first on Critico.

On stand, you’ll be able to see how real-time staff alerting, resident monitoring, and location-based communication can transform everyday care. Faster responses, safer environments, and more time for what matters most – delivering quality care.

Come and meet us at Stand C11 to explore how Critico and 9Solutions are helping to build safer, smarter nursing homes.

The post Critico and 9 Solutions at Care Show 2025 appeared first on Critico.

To ensure a smooth transition, Motorola recommends moving to the TLK 110 WAVE PTX™ radios which offer enhanced features and long-term support.

Ongoing Support and Service

Although production of the TLK 100 will cease, technical support and software updates will continue to be available for three years after the discontinuation date, provided there is an active WAVE PTX™ subscription in place.

After this period:

• Existing service agreements cannot be renewed.
• Aftermarket services will no longer be offered.

What This Means for Users

• Renewals for current TLK 100 services will no longer be accepted.
• Support and updates remain available for three years following the phase-out.
• The TLK 110 series is now the recommended replacement.

Organisations currently using TLK 100 devices are advised to review their communication systems and plan an upgrade to the TLK 110 to avoid disruptions and maintain reliable service.

If you have any questions about the TLK 100 discontinuation or would like a tailored quote for upgrading to the TLK 110, please contact our team.

The post Motorola Solutions Cancel TLK 100 WAVE PTX Radios appeared first on Critico.

As students across the UK prepare to return for the new academic year, universities and colleges are getting ready for Freshers Week, inductions and the busy term ahead. Clear, reliable communication has never been more important.

Critico | Janet txt – our trusted SMS service provided in partnership with Jisc (since 2007!) – gives institutions a fast and effective way to reach students and staff wherever they are. From timetable changes to wellbeing support, critical alerts to Freshers’ Fair reminders, Critico’s Janet txt solution keeps everyone informed and connected.

With inboxes overflowing and notifications competing for attention, text messaging cuts through the noise. Messages are delivered directly to mobile devices and read within minutes, making it the most immediate and accessible way to share important updates.

Critico | Janet txt helps universities and colleges:

• Welcome new students with orientation and registration details.

• Promote Freshers Week events and boost attendance.

• Provide wellbeing and safety information quickly and discreetly.

• Send urgent alerts in case of timetable disruption or campus emergencies.

• Enable two-way engagement with students for feedback and surveys.

Whether it’s keeping students safe, engaged, or simply in the right place at the right time, Critico | Janet txt ensures your messages get through.

Find out more about how Critico | Janet txt supports the higher education community by clicking here.

Critico Janet txt

The post Back to Campus with Critico | Janet txt appeared first on Critico.

When every second counts, clear and reliable comms make the difference. Whether you’re managing major incidents or daily operations, your team needs robust voice solutions they can count on.

Our integrated radio systems are trusted across the UK – from construction sites and council teams to critical infrastructure and private security. We help teams stay in touch, stay informed, and stay safe.

At the International Security Expo this September, we’ll be showcasing:

✅ 2-Way Radio Solutions – seamless voice comms for teams on the move
✅ Radio over IP (RoIP) – extend coverage, reduce blackspots, and centralise control
✅ Body-Worn Cameras – enhance staff safety and incident reporting
✅ Lone Worker Devices – intelligent protection for remote or at-risk personnel

Whether you’re upgrading an old system or building something new, we’d love to talk.

Come and see us at Stand B32 – or better still, book a time to meet with Jack Whorton, Critico’s Head of Sales – Radio.

Book a meeting with Jack here

Jack Whorton

The post International Security Expo appeared first on Critico.

Two-way radios remain a cornerstone of effective communication in sectors such as healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and security. However, selecting the right radio solution requires careful consideration of operational needs and environmental conditions. Below are four key factors to keep in mind when evaluating two-way radios for professional use:

1. Range

Range is a critical factor, particularly in outdoor or large-scale operations. For open areas, radios with a strong line-of-sight signal can cover considerable distances. However, buildings, terrain, and interference can impact performance. In multi-storey buildings, warehouses, or across multiple sites, digital systems or the use of repeaters may be required to ensure consistent coverage. Always assess whether your environment demands UHF over VHF, or whether an IP-based solution may offer better performance.

2. Durability 

Radios used in demanding environments must be built to withstand harsh conditions. Devices should offer high IP ratings, IP67 or above is ideal for protection against dust and water. For even tougher environments, military-standard (MIL-STD) certifications indicate resistance to shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures. A rugged design not only extends the lifespan of the radio but also ensures reliable performance in high-risk or outdoor settings.

3. Security

For sectors handling sensitive information, communication security is non-negotiable. Digital radios offer encryption to prevent unauthorised access or eavesdropping. Licensed radios allow organisations to operate on private frequencies, minimising interference and enhancing control. Additional features such as voice scrambling or secure key management further protect communications, making them suitable for mission-critical use

4. Safety Features

Modern radios often include integrated safety functions, especially valuable for lone workers or teams in hazardous environments. Lone worker mode requires users to respond to periodic prompts, triggering an alert if there’s no response. Man-down detection automatically activates an alarm if the device senses a fall or abnormal inactivity. GPS tracking allows real-time location monitoring, supporting faster response times in emergencies and improving team visibility.

Selecting the right two-way radio means balancing coverage needs, environmental challenges, and user safety. From ensuring clear communication across complex sites to maintaining secure and reliable contact in high-risk situations, each consideration plays a vital role in operational effectiveness. For tailored advice and reliable two-way radio solutions designed to meet your specific requirements, contact our radio communications experts today and take the first step towards enhancing your team’s connectivity and safety.

The post Top 4 Key Considerations when Buying Two-Way Radios appeared first on Critico.

At Emergency Tech 2025, we will be on Stand C100 demonstrating our full range of communication solutions, including paging, radio, SMS, smartphone apps, and integrated control-room platforms – all designed for resilience, speed, and clarity.

Visit us at the show to discover how Critico can help your teams mobilise faster, coordinate more effectively, and deliver safer outcomes. In the meantime, have a look at our Blue-Light webpage here.

Come and see us at ETS – or better still, book a time to meet the team.

Book a slot at the show with our dedicated blue-light Area Sales Manager, Nick Smith.

Nick Smith

The post Emergency Tech Show 2025 appeared first on Critico.

As education providers prepare for the upcoming introduction of Martyn’s Law (also known as the Protect Duty), Critico has launched a dedicated emergency communication package via its trusted Janet txt platform designed to help schools, colleges, and universities strengthen their response to serious incidents.

Under Martyn’s Law, institutions will be expected to demonstrate clear plans and procedures to protect students, staff, and visitors in the event of a security threat. At the heart of this is the ability to communicate quickly, reliably, and effectively.

Sean Lewis, Critico’s dedicated Janet txt Sales Executive, had this to say:

“Whether it’s a lockdown scenario, evacuation, or safeguarding alert, speed and clarity in communication are critical. Janet txt gives education providers a simple and resilient tool to send alerts, manage contacts, and support post-incident reporting – all within one trusted platform. The best part? You don’t need to overhaul your systems, just strengthen the comms area. Janet txt works alongside you and your existing plans to deliver what’s most needed: fast, clear, auditable communication.”

Key features include:

• Instant SMS alerts to staff, students, and key groups

• Group and contact management in line with safeguarding policies

• Full audit trail for compliance and post-incident reviews

• Secure, Jisc-approved platform built for high-availability use

• 24/7/365 support and Bureau DDI options for added resilience

To learn more or arrange a demo:

Web: criticogroup.com/products/janet-txt

Email: janettxt@criticogroup.purelywebsite.com

Text: Text ‘Janet’ to 80081

The post Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty) appeared first on Critico.