Max Linear, Inc., a leading provider of communications semiconductors for broadband, connectivity, and infrastructure applications, today announced Puma 9, a next-generation DOCSIS platform designed to help broadband operators accelerate the rollout of D4.0/D3.1+ multi-gigabit services, power Edge AI, personal AI and Wi-Fi 8 connectivity while also helping operators to reduce their cost and complexity of transitioning to DOCSIS 4.0.

Puma 9 brings advanced Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) security readiness and DDR5 memory compatibility, helping operators protect their networks against future threats and avoid supply chain risk associated with legacy memory types. Built with a secure-by-design approach, Puma 9 is designed to support compliance with leading cybersecurity frameworks and regulations, including NIST IR 8425 A (U.S.), Radio Equipment Directive (RED), and the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) (EU).

Operators are facing expanding demands that extend far beyond raw bandwidth. From Edge AI and Personal AI to Wi-Fi 8, heightened security requirements, and tighter capital budgets, success increasingly depends on the ability to evolve services without constantly replacing hardware. Puma 9 reimagines the gateway lifecycle, helping operators maximize existing DOCSIS 3.1 investments while preparing for next-generation services through flexible in-field upgrades.

With a high level of integration in 8 nm process technology, Puma 9 is the first and only platform that can support DOCSIS 3.1, DOCSIS 3.1+, and DOCSIS 4.0 standards on a single SoC without incurring significant cost additions. Key capabilities include Post-Quantum Security Readiness, Next-Gen Memory Technology with DDR5 compatibility, Wi-Fi 8 Integration, and support for greater than 10 Gbps downstream throughput with 5x OFDM channels.