December 2009
Why is it so important to use a centrally managed Wi-Fi network when it is so much cheaper to use low cost standalone Access Points?

A centrally managed network is a more expensive option than buying low cost standalone access points and so there must be several good reasons to spend the extra money. What are those reasons?

• Security - Centrally managed APs do not need to store security parameters on the AP in a form which can be accessed by hackers. This overcomes a major security flaw in standalone APs.
• Time saving - Configuration changes can easily be applied to multiple APs or the entire system simultaneously.
• Automatic management options - the central management can perform management tasks such as adjustment of transmit power levels and RF channel assignments to reduce interference and enable coverage in the event of an AP failure.
• Consistency - ensures consistent configuration which can be lost if APs have to be managed individually.
• Speed of access - a digital dashboard provides instant access to a variety of client and network information.
• Monitoring potential attacks - detects and prevents the operation of rogue APs, increasing the system security. It is essential to prevent Denial of Service attacks.
• Diagnosis of client problems - dramatically reduces the time taken to isolate where the client is located, which AP is being used and where the problem lies.
• Speed and reliability of firmware upgrades - reduces the complexity and the management time needed to carry out firmware upgrade. Also ensures that all equipment is upgraded.
• Mobility - To support session persistent roaming, a central module is required to maintain the client connection. This facility is vital to delivering highly desirable solutions such a Voice.
• User management - If control is required over user access and the bandwidth they have available to then, parameters such as rate limiting require a central control module.
• Advanced features - As use of a network grows and more sophisticated features are used such as multiple SSID’s, VLANs, integration to Active Directory or Radius servers and more, it is only possible to deliver and support these features with a centrally managed solution.

The Ruckus Wireless product range includes 2 central management modules, the ZoneDirector 1000 which supports up to 50 access points and the ZoneDirector 3000 which supports up to 500 access points. For more information select the text above, or click on the relevant picture.

If you have any questions regarding Wi-Fi WLAN technology please feel free to contact us on 01270-588228. If your question is of general interest, we may include it in our faqs.