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Empowering Connectivity: The Crucial Role of Managed Wi-Fi & LAN

July 29, 2024

Jamsheed Sukhadwala   

Associate Vice President of Core & Next Gen Connectivity Services at Tata Communications

In today’s hyper-connected world, a reliable Wi-Fi network is the backbone of seamless communication and productivity. However, managing and maintaining a robust Wi-Fi infrastructure can be complex and demanding. This is where Managed Wi-Fi services step in, offering a solution that simplifies network management while ensuring optimal performance.

The growing complexity associated with Managed Wi-Fi and LAN services stems from the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing demands of modern businesses. As organisations adopt more IoT devices, cloud-based applications, and remote work solutions, their network infrastructures must become more sophisticated to support higher data throughput, enhanced security protocols, and seamless connectivity across diverse environments. According to a report by IDC, the number of connected devices is expected to reach 55.7 billion by 2025, with 75% connected to an IoT platform. This surge necessitates advanced management tools and capabilities to handle the sheer volume and variety of devices. null

Additionally, the proliferation of advanced cybersecurity threats requires robust, proactive measures to protect sensitive data and ensure network integrity. For instance, the average cost of a data breach in 2023 was $4.45 million, highlighting the financial risks associated with inadequate security measures. Managed service providers must continually upgrade their offerings, integrate cutting-edge technologies such as AI and machine learning for threat detection and response.

Moreover, businesses are increasingly seeking high-performance networks to support applications like video conferencing, virtual reality, and augmented reality, which demand low latency and high bandwidth. For example, the global average mobile download speed increased by 31% in 2023, underscoring the need for networks to keep pace with user expectations. Consequently, managed service providers must deliver comprehensive, real-time monitoring and support to meet these escalating challenges, making the management of Wi-Fi and LAN services an intricate and dynamic endeavor.

The importance of Managed Wi-Fi and LAN for enhancing user experience cannot be overstated. With two-thirds of customers prioritizing customer experience, the ability to deliver seamless, reliable connectivity becomes crucial for any business. Managed Wi-Fi and LAN services ensure robust network performance, minimizing downtime and optimizing speed, which directly contributes to a positive user experience. Moreover, 18% of customers are willing to pay a premium for superior connectivity, underscoring the potential for increased revenue through enhanced services. Conversely, the stakes are high, as 92% of customers will stop considering a brand if they encounter more than two negative experiences. By investing in high-quality managed Wi-Fi and LAN solutions, businesses can significantly improve customer satisfaction, foster loyalty, and ultimately drive growth.

The Significance of Expertise in Service Providers

The success of a Managed Wi-Fi service hinges on the expertise of the service provider. From designing and implementing the network to ensuring security and scalability, a proficient service provider plays a pivotal role. Choosing a knowledgeable partner becomes crucial in delivering consistent, reliable connectivity.

The evolution of Wi-Fi technology has brought forth Wi-Fi, 6E and extending to Wi-Fi 7, promising faster speeds, increased capacity, and improved performance. Enterprises should capitalise on these advancements, leveraging the latest technology to offer a better user experience to their customers.

Tailoring Managed Services

The requirements for managing Wi-Fi networks differ based on the size of the user base. Small, medium, and large enterprises have varying needs in terms of scalability, traffic handling, and security protocols. Managed services adapt to these diverse requirements, ensuring the network aligns with the organisation’s specific demands.

Seamless access to Wi-Fi networks is essential. Managed Wi-Fi services prioritise user experience by providing easy, secure connections. Additionally, ensuring comprehensive coverage across diverse environments – offices, public spaces, or remote locations – remains a cornerstone of these services.

The Role of OEM Selection by Service Providers

Managed service providers assume the responsibility of selecting the Original Equipment Manufacturer  to power the Wi-Fi infrastructure. Factors such as performance, compatibility, and future scalability influence their choice, impacting the network’s efficiency and reliability.null

Wi-Fi services have become indispensable in today’s digital landscape. From leveraging the potential of the latest technologies to tailoring services based on user needs, these solutions promise not just connectivity, but optimised, secure, and scalable networks. Choosing a proficient service provider ensures that businesses can focus on their core objectives while enjoying uninterrupted connectivity.

This structure provides a framework to elaborate on each section, incorporating examples, statistics, and case studies to enrich the content and engage the audience effectively.

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