Managed Switches and WiFi for Seamless Connectivity

Managed network switches are network devices that allow for the management and configuration of LAN traffic. They have the ability to prioritize network traffic, create virtual LANs (VLANs), and set up port mirroring for monitoring and troubleshooting purposes. Managed switches provide IT administrators with granular control over network security policies and the ability to monitor performance statistics, errors and perform packet captures. Some common features of managed switches include Quality of Service (QoS) settings, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) support, VLAN support, and access control lists (ACLs).

A managed switch provides you the ability to change, control, and monitor the LAN to the port level on that managed device. It provides greater control over how data travels over the network and who can access that data.

An unmanaged switch is a fixed device, it cannot be changed. It can be used as a switch for endpoints that all reside in the same VLAN. Typically, unmanaged switches are used for small networks and designs that do not require segregation.

Interface uses a variety of methods/tools to administer managed switches. These include CLI (command line interface), Web UI, SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), NETCONF (Network Configuration Protocol), and NMS.

Managed Wi-Fi services enables an organization to outsource to a third-party vendor the tasks involved in configuring, procuring, installing, maintaining, monitoring, supporting, and upgrading a Wi-Fi network. Managed WiFi service offered by Interface includes the following:

• Network design and planning: Design and plan a WiFi network that meets the specific needs of customers, taking into account factors such as the size and layout of the building, the number of users, and the types of devices that will be connected.
• Hardware provision: Install the necessary hardware such as access points, routers, and switches required to set up a WiFi network.
• Network installation and configuration: Install and configure the WiFi network hardware and software, including setting up security protocols such as WPA2 and firewall protection.
• Network monitoring and management: Remotely monitor and manage the WiFi network and troubleshoot any issues that arise and update software and firmware as needed.

Using a managed services provider for administering switches and WiFi enables customers to offload cumbersome ongoing challenges such as procuring, installing, monitoring, and maintaining switches and access points.

Managed service providers like Interface can create templatized deployment models and implement best practices to speed up implementation at new locations and adhere to corporate network security standards. Centralized management of switches and access points also minimizes the need for customer employees to get involved in troubleshooting issues with switches and access points.