Benefits of Wi-Fi automation

An essential element for today’s companies in various industries (but also NGOs, public institutions, etc.) to function properly – especially in times of widespread remote work – is a constant connection to a wireless network. Its businesslike operation and protection against conceivable cyber threats are the basis for the smooth performance of daily activities. Of course, in any case, there may be a situation in which problems arise in the wireless network, both related to internal and external activities. To reduce this risk and streamline the processes taking place, companies are increasingly opting for Wi-Fi automation. Today, we’ll explain what such an action entails and we’ll show the benefits it brings to the business.

Wi-Fi automation – what does it consist of?

Wi-Fi automation involves the use of miscellaneous types of technologies and tools to streamline an organization’s network configuration, monitoring, and management processes. Through the use of network management systems (NPS), remote management protocols (e.g., SNMP), intelligent network management algorithms or device discovery and configuration technologies (e.g., Zero Touch Provisioning), among others, there is no need to manually perform theretofore necessary tasks such as:

• bandwidth allocation,
• assigning devices to the best access points,
• detecting and resolving network problems,
• turning the network on and off at specific times,
• network scaling (to avoid congestion),
• monitoring and maintenance of apparatuses on the network (routers, bridges, etc.).

Wi-Fi automation – what are the benefits for the company?

Therefore, the forsaking of manual management of the wireless network leads to the optimization of the ongoing processes related to the use of the wireless grid, so that several business benefits can be seen in enterprises relying on such a facility. The most important of these are listed below.

1. Time and cost savings

   Faster setup and installation, more effortless management, optimized bandwidth usage – all these factors mean that Wi-Fi automation leads to a reduced workload for people who are part of the IT team (peculiarly network administrators), allowing employees to focus on other areas of operation. At the same time, this process ensures that unused devices are turned off without human intervention, which leads to electricity savings and accordingly lower costs. It also protects against conceivable problems (via the ability of early detection and continuous monitoring) that could result in the need for considerable financial expenditures.

2. Higher level of security

   Automating other processes with Wi-Fi (thanks to constant monitoring and analysis of network traffic) also allows network administrators to react more quickly in a situation of danger related to, for example, a hacking attack, phishing attempt, or the appearance of a malicious virus. But that’s not all – these types of systems ensure that all devices on the network are always updated and properly fended against a wide motley of threats. What’s more, in the event of a malfunction or nuisance of the Wi-Fi network, the systems can severally detect and locate the problem, and then take action to rectify the situation.

3. Easier network configuration

   With Wi-Fi automation, there is no need to manually configure each device, a time-consuming process that requires advanced technical knowledge. Modern technologies allow a new device to find the network on its own and configure its settings according to the approaches set by the leader. Especially helpful in this regard are network management systems (NMS), which allow administrators to quickly and easily manage the entire network from one place (configure and update network settings such as bandwidths, network names, passwords, MAC address filters, and much, much more).

4. Better network performance

   By mechanizing the allocation of bandwidth and assigning devices to the best access points, fewer Internet connection quality issues occur (due to greater control over load), resulting in a significantly improved user experience. Thanks to the technologies used (which optimize speed and increase efficiency), members of individual teams can perform their duties without disproportionate downtime, negative feelings, or the need to ask the IT department for help. At the same time, automation decodes into greater network flexibility, which improves adaption to users’ changing needs.

Benefits of Wi-Fi automation – summary

The number of devices connected to the wireless network is increasing year by year, which is inextricably linked to the fact that more and more activities are carried out using modern technologies. To ensure no downtime in the implementation of activities, take care of a smaller load on IT resources (which are often in short supply), or decrease the risk of problems halting the work of the entire company, opt for Wi-Fi automation. The benefits associated with such an action will emerge quickly – especially in terms of saved time and financial resources, which is undoubtedly a priority for every businessperson.

Read also: How can Device as a Service (DaaS) help your business?

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