Peraso's Strategic Board Expansion: Cees Links' Impact on mmWave Growth Trajectory

The high-frequency wireless technology sector is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by the escalating demand for millimeter-wave (mmWave) solutions in applications ranging from fixed wireless access to industrial automation and defense. In this competitive landscape, leadership plays a pivotal role in accelerating innovation and capturing market share. Peraso Inc.'s recent appointment of Cees Links to its board of directors underscores this reality, positioning the company to leverage his decades of expertise in wireless protocol development and semiconductor innovation. This analysis examines how Links' strategic acumen and industry legacy could catalyze Peraso's growth trajectory in the mmWave domain.

A Legacy of Wireless Innovation

Cees Links is a towering figure in the evolution of wireless technology. His career, spanning roles at NCR, AT&T, Lucent Technologies, and Qorvo, has been defined by pioneering contributions to Wi-Fi and IoT ecosystems. Notably, he led the team that developed the IEEE 802.11 wireless protocol, the foundation of modern Wi-Fi, and negotiated its integration into Apple's iBook as AirPort Wi-Fi-a move that democratized wireless connectivity and spurred global adoption. His entrepreneurial ventures, including founding GreenPeak Technologies (acquired by Qorvo in 2016), further highlight his ability to translate technical innovation into commercial success. These experiences position Links as a strategic asset for Peraso, a company focused on advancing mmWave solutions for mission-critical applications.

Peraso's mmWave Ambitions and Market Position

Peraso has established itself as a leader in mmWave wireless technology, with a focus on applications such as fixed wireless access, military communications, and factory automation. The company's recent financial performance reflects growing demand for its solutions: in the third quarter of 2025, revenue surged due to increased adoption of its millimeter-wave products, including a significant order from a leading Fixed Wireless Access equipment provider. However, scaling this momentum requires navigating technical and market challenges, such as optimizing mmWave performance in diverse environments and differentiating from competitors in a rapidly evolving sector.

Strategic Synergy: Links' Expertise and Peraso's Vision

Peraso's appointment of Links to its board is a calculated move to harness his deep industry insights. As noted by CEO Ron Glibbery, Links' "market perspective" will be instrumental in guiding the company's next phase of growth. His track record in standardization efforts-such as his involvement in IEEE 802.11 and Zigbee committees-aligns with Peraso's need to shape industry frameworks for mmWave adoption. Furthermore, his experience in semiconductor design and product commercialization at Qorvo and GreenPeak Technologies provides a blueprint for scaling Peraso's offerings into new markets.

The strategic value of Links' appointment is evident in Peraso's stated priorities. The company aims to expand its presence in defense and industrial sectors, where mmWave's high bandwidth and low latency are critical. For instance, Peraso recently secured a contract to deliver stealthy 60GHz mmWave technology for tactical military communications. Links' background in mission-critical wireless systems, including his work on ultra-low-power IoT solutions, suggests he is well-equipped to advise on such high-stakes projects.

Market Expansion and Leadership Impact

While direct post-appointment initiatives by Links remain unspecified, his influence is anticipated to manifest in three key areas:
1. Product Direction: His expertise in wireless protocol development could refine Peraso's mmWave solutions for interoperability and performance, critical for enterprise and defense clients.
2. Strategic Partnerships: Links' industry network, forged through decades of collaboration with tech giants like Apple and semiconductor leaders, may facilitate partnerships to accelerate market penetration.
3. Innovation Pipeline: His history of fostering innovation-such as GreenPeak's IoT advancements-could inspire Peraso to explore adjacent applications, such as immersive video or smart infrastructure.

Conclusion: A Catalyst for Growth

Peraso's mmWave ambitions are poised to benefit significantly from Cees Links' leadership. His unparalleled experience in wireless technology, coupled with his proven ability to drive commercialization, addresses critical gaps in scaling high-frequency solutions. As the sector matures, the interplay between visionary leadership and technical execution will determine market leaders. Peraso's strategic board expansion signals confidence in its ability to navigate this dynamic landscape, with Links serving as a linchpin in its quest to dominate the mmWave frontier.