Managing wireless networks effectively can be problematic for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in particular with the growing popularity of mobile devices in the workplace and the constant connection needs of Wi-Fi-enabled devices. Cloud-managed wireless isn’t new, but its rapid growth in the last year or two has been directly fueled by companies looking to upgrade their wireless networks and moving to 802.11ac. Here are just five of the many reasons your business should be using cloud-managed wireless services:

#1: Single Point of Management

Cloud-managed wireless services provide a single point of management in the cloud for provisioning, troubleshooting, configuration, and firmware management. The ability to have a streamlined interface that enables remote monitoring and troubleshooting, central configuration, and firmware management, as well as compliance records and historical data, is a game changer for any business that uses an on-premises wireless local area network (WLAN) today. The management system can be accessed through a Web browser. IT can monitor all access points (APs), see what devices are being used to access the network, and keep an eye on security events.

#2: Cost Savings

The subscription model of cloud-managed wireless services provides your business with predictable monthly operating expenditures rather than capital expenditures. This is because the cloud delivery of the services eliminates the up-front cost for deployment and purchase of traditional on-premises solutions and hardware (e.g., management server appliances, controllers).  

In addition, maintenance costs are reduced as various moves, adds, changes, and unpredictable system failures are eliminated and firmware updates are automatic. SMBs with a small IT staff and more than one location can free the staff up to concentrate on other projects, because the network can be more easily managed.

#3: Scalability

Cloud-managed WLANs are also much easier to scale as an organization grows. Additional controllers can be added or taken away as needed. If an organization adopts more cloud technology in the future for storage or applications, they can be easily added and managed through the cloud as well.

New APs for remote locations can be configured and automatically downloaded and brought online without a technician on site. These services can support companies with everything from a single location with one AP to a business with many locations and multiple APs for each location.

#4: Improve Security

Network sensors, software, and applications can automatically detect complications and rogue APs. Auto alerts are sent out to network monitoring when a problem is detected. In addition, security and software updates are automatic so that critical data are always protected.

#5: Analytics and Reporting

Get real-time analysis of security incidents or breakdowns and utilize customer feedback, reports, and data to improve business decision making.

Today’s businesses require consistent and optimal performance from their wireless networking. Cloud-managed wireless services enable businesses of any size to provision, manage, and grow their WLAN.  A cloud-managed wireless network solution reduces costs, increases productivity, and enhances your network security. All of these benefits of cloud-managed wireless work together to help your business achieve its goals and objectives as your needs change.