Managed WiFi is a managed wireless network which enables users, guests, or residents of a business to connect to the Internet through multiple accessible points throughout a large building, ensuring widespread access to the web. The service provides the same broadband connections as customers would get with their own wireless networks at home, at work, or at public hotspots like libraries and airports. Managed WiFi manages all the wires, cabling, and physical security of your building’s internet connection, relieving IT administrators of routine maintenance tasks, and allowing them to provide top-notch service to their customers.
Installing Managed WiFi can be done through a variety of providers.
Many offer it as a service through their websites, or by contacting a vendor directly. Other Managed WiFi providers offer it as a component of their managed home or office networks, and may also offer installation services for one-time installations. There are even a few managed wifi providers who may provide on-site installation for those who wish to take the hassle out of installing a wired internet connection for themselves, or as part of a complete building renovation.
Installing Managed WiFi in a building presents some challenges, such as trying to deploy the service in an area with a mixed-use environment where there are multiple wireless networks. One approach to solve this problem is to utilize a third-party provider who specializes in managed networks, such as Collision alarms, and help desk solutions. A help desk professional can help you determine the best locations for Managed WiFi, determine the appropriate hardware for each network, and then install Managed WiFi in a way that ensures maximum coverage. Many Managed WiFi providers offer technical support for the initial installation of the network, and ongoing support for the Managed WiFi software and hardware. Having technicians available at your fingertips can help solve connectivity issues and make sure that your Managed WiFi works well for your organization.
Managed wifi is most commonly used as a means of bridging two different wireless internet connection models. For instance, some companies may choose to connect via its hardware to a laptop computer, while others may use a wireless router to establish a local network in a room or building. The most common choice is the hardware-based per access point model, which is usually less expensive than a dedicated wireless network, yet offers all the functionality of a traditional public wireless internet provider. Another option is a managed per access point service, which connects to multiple sites and submits requests to a centralized control station via a network of switches and access points.
In addition to the advantages of managed WiFi over public wifi,
some organizations face significant issues with connectivity. In certain locations, buildings, for example, may be too large to accommodate a large building wide network of Managed WiFi users. Wireless printers for printing documents to multiple users can also be a challenge for larger locations, especially in business districts. Some Managed WiFi networks have been set up to test areas where high signal strength is a concern, but this is not a good option for most locations. Since most Managed Wifi providers have their own wireless printer servers, it is difficult to replace an existing printer server with a new one.
However, with the implementation of managed wifi solutions by most businesses, there is no need to worry about these kinds of obstacles. Many Managed Wifi providers offer their clients advanced technology that helps them create a mesh network of Managed wifi users. This allows for faster transmission of data, allowing businesses to use their internet at faster speeds. Most devices, even printers, are able to connect and use the internet via a managed network. Replacing traditional public networks with managed wifi solutions has many benefits for businesses, especially in terms of expense and downtime.
When setting up a managed network, it is a good idea for companies to perform a thorough compatibility assessment with each of the devices that will be connected. In this way, they can determine which devices require specific driver updates to operate with the company’s managed wifi solutions. Wireless printer drivers, for example, must be compatible with the printer that will be set up as a part of the Managed WiFi installation. Devices that do not work well with the printers being used as a part of the installation may not be included in the contract or they may require more technical support. Wireless Network Management Software provides this additional support, along with automatic device update checks from the software itself, making it easier for the company to make sure that all of the included hardware and drivers are working well.
- To save time and money for a business, it is important that companies research Managed Wifi service providers before making a decision on which provider to use.
- A good way to do this is to speak to current customers, as some of these businesses provide free trial services to help prospective clients make the best decision for their needs.
- Companies should also consult with technical experts to learn more about managed services and how it can benefit an organization.
- Finally, it is always a good idea to check whether a managed service provider offers support for its managed services tools and software.