Five signs you need cloud WiFi

Everyone needs WiFi to keep their devices online and connected to the web. Unfortunately, once you evolve beyond a residential application the resources needed to manage such a network for a company become quite large.

However, if you are struggling to keep up with the growing demands of your employees and customers for your network then a cloud solution could save the day. Here are five signs that you might need cloud WiFi.

1. Your network is painfully slow

Does your network behave more like the tortoise than the hare? While it can be hard to get decent speeds using hardware solutions, a cloud solution offers lightning-fast connections for your employees and customers.

2. You are not able to handle security procedures properly

Leaving your WiFi network open can cause huge problems quickly. Some of which might even bring legal consequences if somebody does something unsavory using your connection. With a managed cloud WiFi solution none of that is your problem, because you have your own security team taking care of everything.

3. Your current solution is getting too expensive

Using a cloud-based network means less money is needed to invest in hardware or labor to manage the network. That makes cloud solutions cost effective and easy on your budget.

4. You’re unable to scale your current solution

Hardware has limitations, and you may find that your current network is being held back by what you can provide. A cloud solution has no limitations and it can scale as your business grows. It’s incredibly flexible and your employees can access and share files through a variety of devices.

5. Your current solution is too difficult to manage

Are you having a hard time keeping up with your users and what they’re doing? A fully managed cloud WiFi solution allows you to have total visibility and complete control over your network.

However, you can offload the heavy lifting to someone else and cut your IT budget needs, because cloud solutions are managed by their own on-site professionals.

In closing, a cloud WLAN and WiFi solution is a great way to reduce costs for your business and to provide a more reliable network. This allows you to stop worrying about IT issues and spend your time focusing on what really matters.

Interested in implementing a cloud-based WLAN and WiFi system? Contact us today to get free advice from one of our consultants and learn what steps you should take next.

An Essential Guide to Cloud WiFi

Cloud WiFi has been increasingly gaining traction as many enterprises transition from traditional on-premises controllers. Before purchasing Cloud WiFi services, it’s important to consider several factors that directly affect your business.

Between all the marketing campaigns in this highly competitive market, it can be difficult to understand the technical terminology. This essential guide to cloud WiFi breaks down everything you need to know when selecting a cloud WiFi product for your business.

Why Purchase Cloud WiFi?

Cloud WiFi is greatly beneficial for geographically dispersed organisations as it allows control of the entire wireless network from a single interface. It’s easy to set up and offers great flexibility.

Things I need to know about Cloud WiFi

Exploring these considerations shall be unique to your enterprise. It’s crucial to select one that best meets your business requirements.

The Location of Cloud WiFi

Where the cloud WiFi shall be physically placed can highly affect the connectivity. Most enterprise-class WiFi hardware can handle office environments with minor physical obstructions, like cubicles and drywall, but issues may arise in larger facilities.

Additional hardware and software features are often required when operating cloud WiFi in manufacturing plants, outdoor spaces, and retail outlets.

Application and Cloud Data Storage

Another crucial factor to consider is knowing where the application and cloud data is stored. It’s ideal to select a cloud WiFi provider that offers 100% survivability, so users can continue to access locally operated applications until the connection is restored.

For critical locations where a majority of applications are served off-site, WiFi redundancy can be built in to serve as a backup mechanism, protecting against connection failure.

Features and Functionality

Some cloud WiFi services release beta features to get ahead, whilst others wait until the new features and functionalities are fully polished. The deployment shall depend on the cloud WiFi vendor’s approach.

Security

Cloud WiFi products tend to have comparable enterprise-grade hardware for client data transport, but not all APs can handle the same capacity.

Businesses with a concern regarding the radio frequency (RF) space security should consider a cloud WiFi product that offers a dedicated radio that manages the RF environment, providing always-on and real-time security monitoring.

Some services offer similar functionality with a dual-radio AP, but that radio must be taken offline to free up for RF management and security.

Visibility and Control

Administrators can use visibility and control to identify and set bandwidth maximums to avoid over usage. They also have the ability to create firewall rules that block access to undesired applications.

Some platforms have different application identification and classification features, such as identifying applications based on identifiers that don’t require looking inside each packet. This is effective, however, it compromises accuracy and flexibility when applying policies to certain applications.

Haptic Networks has over a decade of experience and knowledge delivering IT solutions to Education and Public Sector organisations. Contact us for free advice with one of our consultants on how to implement cloud-based WiFi systems!

What is WaaS and Why Does Your Business Need It?

Regardless of the industry, having a fast and secure WiFi network is extremely important to meet business standards. It’s no longer considered a privilege, but a mandatory component for business operations. To support an increasing number of cloud-based applications and mobile devices, more enterprises are turning to WaaS.

What is WaaS?

WaaS, also known as WiFi as a service, is a subscription-based service that combines infrastructure, software, and managed services to offer fast, secure, and reliable networks. They have managed WiFi solutions and improved WiFi connectivity services without the need for in-house staff.

Pro’s of WaaS for Business

There are many advantages to having WiFi as a service for business. With having a reliable WiFi system in place, it can also help to avoid any potential problems.

Cost-Effective

Implementing WaaS is a great cost-effective solution for businesses without compromising performance and scope. With WaaS, there is no need for purchasing enterprise-grade infrastructure and software or hiring a highly specialised team to manage and maintain the systems.

These third party providers offer WiFi maintenance support, WaaS troubleshooting, and other WiFi IT solutions all at a low cost. They already come with fully staffed experts that are ready to help your business at any given time.

Save Valuable Time

Haptic Networks have 24/7 specialised support to troubleshoot WaaS without interrupting business operations. Issues are resolved easily and efficiently, thus saving a lot of valuable time.

Short Life Cycle

Wireless networks tend to have short, costly life cycles as technology is constantly changing to match industry standards. Your business can easily upgrade to the latest systems without having to reinvest in new systems with WaaS.

Security & Trustworthiness

Utilising WiFi as a service for business ensures that your network will always have the latest wireless security infrastructure to keep up with changing threats. It also ensures that you have reliable WiFi systems that are functionally efficiently all the time.

Coverage

Black spots are frequent when it comes to WiFi installations within larger buildings, but WaaS can be implemented to overcome these issues. They provide advice for business and plan out exactly where the WiFi can be installed within your building premises for optimal coverage.

If you have any other questions on how to improve your WiFi systems and the next steps to take, contact us for a free consultation with one of our experts. We offer advice, support, consultation, and even training in many aspects of technology regardless of the industry.

What WIFI Management System is Best for Your Business: On-Premises or Cloud-Based WLAN?

Businesses considering WIFI and WLAN deployment have two options to choose from, on-premises WLAN or cloud-based WLAN. Both methods possess traits that could make either one a better choice for specific businesses – depending on operational needs.

Below, we’ll be examining the pros and cons of both WLAN solutions:

The Best Budgetary Fit

When it comes to on-premises WLAN, a company is responsible for every single machination and element involved in software deployment. They are going to be on the hook for the following ongoing costs:

Power consumption
Server hardware
Space
Customisations costs
Upgrade costs

Unfortunately, this means little flexibility with expenses. Even if WIFI and WLAN aren’t abundantly consumed, businesses are still on the hook for a litany of costs.

Conversely, the cost of cloud-based WLAN adjusts along with the amount of usage, without the upkeep expenses.

Keeping Safe and Secure

In the government and banking industries, security is paramount because they are handling hyper-sensitive information.

Traditionally, on-premises WLAN has been the choice for businesses where privacy and security is a top concern, largely due to company control and customisation. However, cloud-based WIFI services are implementing the latest in wireless security infrastructure that continuously adapts to the various threats posed in today’s climate.

Server Reliability and Maintenance

On-premises systems do have the benefit of immediacy when it comes to system checks since everything is managed in-house.

However, there is somewhat of a misconception that since cloud-based services are handled by a third-party, there are extended waiting periods for maintenance and repairs. The truth is, disruptions are rare with cloud-based services and the technology is highly adaptable, leading to prompt recovery times.

How Seamless Are Updates?

When it comes to on-premises WIFI and WLAN upgrades, it’s a clunky, time-consuming process because each and every device has to be updated manually by each respective employee.

With cloud-based WIFI and WLAN, updates are implemented automatically. The process isn’t at all time-consuming and is generally hassle-free.

The Ease of Scalability

It’s difficult to effectively scale with on-premises WIFI and WLAN. Since it’s catered specifically to one business, there aren’t many integration options. Additionally, server capacity becomes an issue with the implementation of new services because they’re provided in-house.

Comparatively, cloud-based WIFI makes it easy to add or reduce the number of users, integrates seamlessly with other cloud-based offerings, and server capacity doesn’t matter because extra services are offered by the provider.

Want to find out more about implementing cloud-based WLAN and WIFI systems? Contact us today for a free consultation!

First UK Partner to achieve Ruckus Ready Cloud Specialist Certification

Haptic Networks: First UK Partner to achieve Ruckus Ready Cloud Specialist Certification

Today we received confirmation that Haptic Networks are the first UK Partner to achieve Ruckus Ready Cloud Specialist Certification. As Elite partners of Ruckus for over a decade, Haptic Networks have invested heavily in training and certification for our team.

To be the first UK Partner to achieve Ruckus Ready Cloud Specialist Certification in the UK is a huge achievement and one we’re incredibly proud of. In order to obtain this status our in house technical and sales teams have been busy passing the following qualified courses:

2 x ICX Implementers

2 x ICX Wired SE Pre-Sales

2 x WiSE Certified Engineers

2 x Cloudpath Certified Engineers

2 x Ruckus Cloud WiFi Certified

In addition to this we have also completed the following courses and now offer our customers access to consultants with the following certifications:

1 x CWS (Certified Wi-Fi Specialist)

1 x CWT (Certified Wi-Fi Technician)

2 x CWNA (Certified Wi-Fi Network Administrator)

As we head into 2019 we’re excited to continue our work as Ruckus Elite partners as well as our projects in WiFi and Networking in general.

Here’s more about the work we do

3 Ways improving your wireless network benefits you and your organisation

Understanding the significance of having an optimised wireless network is invaluable to modern day businesses; there are a number of issues and risks that can arise when your wireless network is underperforming and you could be doing your company a disservice.

Having a wireless network that is cost effective and efficient can often feel like a struggle but it really doesn’t have to be, in this blog we are highlighting 3 ways that improving your wireless network benefits you and your organisation.

Become More Secure

Adapting your wireless networks allows you to improve your security and eliminate risks associated with older networks.

Improvements can seamlessly integrate with your existing network, security and authentication infrastructures which allows for a much more organic and less disruptive update.

A more secure network allows you to spend less in the long run. There is a wealth of benefits from updating your technology, reducing your threat level from cyber crime to keeping your users safe on your network.

Reduce Your Paper Usage

Gone are the days when everything needs to be on paper, in fact there’s a wealth of reasons why paper use has declined rapidly in the last decade…

From companies being more active and aware about their environmental impact, aiming to reduce your costs, increases in printing expenses, to the introduction of more and more technologies and software that eliminate the need for paper.

One of the benefits of improving your wireless network is the ability to transfer paper based processes and tasks into digital ones; saving time, effort and of course, paper.

Stop Dead Zones

We’ve all experienced this from time to time while on a network, a dead zone or blind spot where it drops out, on top of being frustrating, this limits productivity and loses your company money. This is a common problem with older networks and is normally all but eliminated when you update your wireless system.

It is essential to make sure that there are no areas within your network that has a weak spot, and if there is one, (due to factors outside of your control such as certain building materials) have a strategy in place to counteract it.

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Here at Haptic Networks we are one of the industry leaders in improving wireless networks for a range of companies; whether it’s to help the company save money, develop their efficiency or to create a stronger competitive advantage, we work with our clients to help them reach their goals.

In our latest free ebook we have highlighted over 10 ways you can improve your operational efficiency and save money by harnessing a better wireless network, to get your copy today click the below button:

WiFi4EU - 120m Euro budget Public Sector WiFi scheme

The European Commission recently announced its WiFi4EU scheme to promote free WiFi connectivity for open areas, parks, libraries, museums and many other public buildings and spaces across Europe.

As a trusted expert in the deployment of Public area/Public access WiFi solutions Haptic Networks are also an approved partner of the scheme. Public Sector bodies and Local Authorities can use the funding to develop and promote their own digital services through a dedicated app. The WiFi4EU - Public Sector WiFi scheme to harness 120m Euro budget is now open. All selected municipalities will receive a 15,000 Euro voucher, this will cover the installation costs of the WiFi equipment in their chosen centres.

For more information on this incentive, feel free to contact us here or alternatively see more about WiFi4EU on our partner Ruckus Wireless' page by clicking here.

Tech Blog: How many users?

OK, time for a checklist (everyone loves a checklist!)

You want WiFi in your location? Check

You know the maximum capacity within your venue? Check

So you plan your WiFi capacity to = maximum venue capacity, correct?

Yes… but you are likely to over spec and over spend; the reality is a lot more subtly nuanced than this. First you have to consider what type of location you have and what type of people you have within it, below I’ve outlined from highest to lowest user % across a range of locations:

Office Space 90- 100%

Conference 85- 95%

“Sit down leisure” i.e restaurant 25-40%

“Active” Leisure i.e. stadium, venue, museum 15-30%

Obviously these figures are going to vary based on a number of factors including demographic of users, average dwell time, proactive digital engagement etc. The other factor to consider is the difference between concurrent users and associated users. The figures above are based on associated users i.e. devices that have authenticated to the WiFi network. Concurrent users would be defined as users who are actively passing traffic over the network i.e. streaming video, downloading content etc. Again this will be impacted massively by the type of environment you are providing WiFi in and what's happening; in a conference centre for example during breaks you would expect a flurry of WiFi activity as visitors download content and access web based resources, yet during seminars & talks (at least from a presenters point of view, you’d hope!) that usage would be reduced to just background email refresh.

Most enterprise grade WiFi solutions will present a huge number for concurrent users per radio, and i’m sure all of these have been tested and validated… in lab conditions. In the real world a plethora of factors impact this number, which reinforces the need for an accurate and detailed site survey prior to deployment. The key questions to ask when planning for capacity is what, where and who;

What will users be doing on the network and what is the per device bandwidth needed at a minimum to enable them to do this?

Where will users be using the network? In a conference centre for example you would assume most users will be using the network in the conference rooms and less in the corridors around the centre

Who will be using the network? This is where separation of networks becomes very important; using the conference centre example you would want to ensure that the presenters get the maximum possible bandwidth, with visitors having connection that is limited. Or in a restaurant with at-table ordering, waiting staff devices would need to be prioritised with guest access of secondary importance.

Ultimately the simple question of “how many users?” is linked with a far larger piece of WiFi design and technology selection. It is therefore vital to ensure that the WiFi partner you select has the experience to select a suitable solution and the engagement and involvement to design it accurately. In short your WiFi partner should be as interested in your business and location as you are!

Haptic Networks have over a decade’s experience in network design, site survey and network/WiFi deployment, we’d be happy to share some knowledge and best practise with you. If you'd like to know more about our WiFi partner of choice Ruckus Wireless - click here to visit our dedicated microsite

WaaS - Wireless as a Service

Haptic networks have been deploying WiFi solutions for almost 10 years. Our experience with survey, network design, installation and support has enabled us to deliver enterprise grade solutions across the world.

In order to address budgetary requirements that vary hugely depending on our customer we have launched a full WiFi as a Service model.

In order to ease the upfront CAPEX cost of traditional projects, we've built a service model to include all the aspects required to begin using the latest 802.11ac solution without the initial layout of cost.
Our model enables your organisation to spread the cost, whilst having a complete schedule of payments across the term, fixed cost, monthly.

Haptic WaaS - WiFi Subscription service - Includes:

Full installation & Configuration
802.11ac Wave 2 Solution
Full support, tel/email & Remote
Network Monitoring and Reporting
Ability to upgrade to new equipment at any point in the future
Increase/Decrease AP count in line with your requirements
30 day trial period, absolutely free.

Fixed price, per AP, per month - for the entire duration of the agreement.

If you'd like to find out more, contact us using this form Alternatively if you'd like to find out more about Ruckus Wireless click this link to visit our dedicate microsite