Wireless LAN Tools

• Merchant Silicon

• Zero-Touch Provisioning

• Layer 7 Visibility

• Access Point (AP)

• Automated Backups and Alerts

• Real-Time Security Monitoring

• Wide Access Network

Networks are created by connecting nodes (usually individual computers or printers) to each other using a central hub, which processes and distributes information. LAN stands for Local Access Network, meaning all of the nodes are in the same general location, like a building or campus. For locations that are further apart, users connect to a WAN, or Wide Access Network.

On-premises WLAN is the best choice when it comes to performance and overall quality because it offers the most consistent connection. It is also the most customizable, with more flexible options for network design and deployment.

Vendors of on-premises WLAN offer hardware tailored to a company’s needs, like custom wireless chips and specialized antennas. To ensure consistency, sellers and resellers refer to the new pieces as “merchant silicon,” meaning they are created based on industry standards and do not vary between vendors. The hardware improves performance and wireless stability, but it does increase costs significantly.

On-premises WLAN provides support for existing wi-fi hardware, which can help ease the transition from a wired system. However, any hardware must be managed locally, meaning IT support is needed in each location to adjust settings, perform maintenance and install updates. This can create significant issues for companies working between multiple branches.

For companies looking to connect multiple branches, cloud WLAN offers a way to manage them all from a single location. Many cloud vendors provide tools like automatic updates, simplified backups, and alerts that make it easier for one IT vendor to support multiple sites.

One important feature of a cloud-based system is Layer 7 visibility, meaning that user data can be categorized by application. This allows users to limit bandwidth from non-essential applications and optimize network performance for more critical functions.

Cloud WLAN relies on an internet connection for network access, removing the hardware limitations of on-premises WLAN. To make matters even easier, some cloud WLAN equipment comes with zero-touch provisioning, meaning the vendor pre-configures the network settings before hardware is shipped. Once it arrives, the equipment essentially installs itself.

Cloud WLAN does offer more management options than the on-premises version, but there are definite limitations when it comes to performance. Since the cloud relies on an internet connection, service interruptions and outages can have a huge impact.

Physical barriers can also disrupt a cloud WLAN network. Typical workplace obstructions like cubicles and drywall should not be an issue, but setups in warehouses, retail outlets and outdoor spaces may require additional hardware and software.

Wireless networks require more security than a wired system. One way to secure a cloud WLAN system is to install a third radio frequency (RF). Most WLAN systems only utilize two access points for communication (one at 2.4 GHz and one at 5GHz), but a third frequency would allow for real-time security monitoring.

Companies should also consider how application and cloud data is stored. Any data that is stored locally can still be accessed in case of a WAN (wide access network) failure. However, any data stored remotely will be inaccessible if the WAN network fails. Companies working with sensitive information should consider a WAN redundancy for critical sites.

Determining the full price of a WLAN network setup is difficult to determine because it has a lot of moving parts, including routers ($60-$250), access points ($30-$300), security gateways ($127-$300) and switches ($70-$1000+). Most vendors also require an annual subscription, based on the number of APs in the network (usually $100-$250 a year). Depending on hardware capabilities and network complexity, prices vary widely.

Security features can be an added expense. Companies can add an a la carte option to their existing network, but the most cost effective option is to choose a vendor that offers end-to-end network infrastructure.