It’s a WiFi Party
In a world where flexibility and collaboration take center stage, WiFi has quickly become the star of the show. Imagine working from anywhere in the office, experiencing open spaces that boost productivity, and saying goodbye to the hassle of cables.
Did you know that open offices increase productivity? It’s science! But, It’s not all about science; people hanging out together is just as important as productivity!
Let’s Talk Tech (but not too much)
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty without losing you in the tech. This article is more like a sneak peek. I want to give you a sense of what’s going on without getting lost in the technical weeds. If you’re after a deep dive, there are plenty of tech manuals and advanced guides. So, let’s keep it relaxed and fun as we explore the latest trends in wireless networking!
To 6GHz and beyond
WiFi 6 has been around since 2019, so it’s not exactly new but we have to talk about it! WiFi 6 brings a few enhancements to WiFi by providing more available bandwidth to devices by introducing some underlying features which help the access point to be more sociable. A common misconception is that WiFi 6 uses the 6Ghz Radio band, this is not exactly true.
Let me introduce you to WiFi 6E, It’s like giving your WiFi a turbo boost, especially in crowded places. WiFi 6E uses the new 6Ghz radio band.
WiFi 6E is becoming increasingly popular and affordable as more end devices become compatible. However, it’s important to be aware that because of this speed capability, the infrastructure backing your wireless needs to be capable of handling the speed increase.
But hold on, because WiFi 7 is on the horizon, It’s like upgrading from a bicycle to a spaceship. WiFi 7 is the next generation of wireless, and whilst the specification has not yet been finalised, it excites everybody with a promise of a mind-blowing speed of up to 40Gbps!
Don’t get too excited though, the projected adoption of WiFi 7 is expected to be slow due to increased cost and the existing lifecycle of WiFi 6E devices, which most organisations have recently deployed.
The Power of AI and Machine Learning Magic
How could I not mention Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)?
Imagine a world where the most common culprits of network outages – hardware failure and human error – could be mitigated and even eliminated. That’s the wizardry of Machine Learning (ML) at play. It’s not just a sci-fi movie; it’s the here and now.
Fuelled by various factors, notably advancements in hardware, the AI conversation has exploded. These strides have propelled ML into the spotlight across industries, sparking discussions about its organisational benefits, and the networking industry is no different.
ML is super powerful when it comes to wireless networks; here are a few of the benefits of using ML inside your network:
Resource Allocation and RF Optimisation
ML algorithms, constantly fine-tuning resources like power, channel availability, and bandwidth. The best part? It happens with minimal human intervention, making network management a breeze.
Preventative administration and troubleshooting
The system will use historical data to predict and prevent network incidents. If a hiccup occurs, ML swiftly attempts to identify the root cause, minimizing downtime and reducing the need for extensive troubleshooting.
Quality Of Service Enhancements
ML algorithms can be applied to monitor network traffic and adjust QoS parameters in real-time to ensure a consistent and high-quality experience. ML is there to make sure your wireless experience is smoother than ever.
Predictive Analytics
Imagine ML as a data-driven fortune teller, analysing historical network traffic to predict future trends. This foresight allows for proactive network planning, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently.
AI and ML aren’t just buzzwords; they’re practical tools streamlining wireless networks. As technology progresses, we can anticipate even more features that simplify network management and enhance user experiences. It’s not flashy; it’s just smart tech making our digital lives a bit smoother.
Location Services: It’s Like GPS, but Cooler
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is our unsung hero. It’s not just for connecting your earbuds; it’s revolutionising location services. Imagine tracking assets in a hospital, finding your way in a shopping center, or monitoring hotdesk utilization. BLE is making our lives easier and more efficient, one location at a time.
Asset Tracking
One of the standout features of Location Services is its ability to offer precision tracking for essential assets. Imagine you’re in a hospital, and the location of vital equipment is crucial. With the aid of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, these assets can be tracked with remarkable accuracy, much more accurately than using WiFi technology for location services. This means healthcare professionals can swiftly locate and retrieve necessary equipment, enhancing efficiency and ultimately improving patient care.
Wayfinding
Navigating complex spaces like shopping centers or large office buildings can be a challenge. Enter Location Services, acting as your virtual guide. BLE technology facilitates real-time wayfinding, ensuring you effortlessly find your way from point A to point B. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about transforming the user experience in various environments.
Space Utilisation Monitoring
In a world where flexible and dynamic workspaces are the norm, BLE technology becomes a game-changer. Picture this: your office adopts a hotdesking approach, and employees have the freedom to choose their workspace. Location Services, with BLE at its core, monitors office space utilization in real time. This data isn’t just numbers on a screen; it’s actionable insights for resource planning, desk booking systems, and even employee awareness. It’s about making the most out of your space intelligently.
I love travelling, and this use case for BLE struck a chord with me. Imagine, you could tell how bad the security line was at the airport before even leaving your house. Blend BLE technology with the analytical power of Machine Learning (ML), and you get a powerful tool for security and resource planning. By analysing historical data, ML models can predict and manage security line lengths, providing valuable insights for travellers even before they leave home.
The above are just a few of the enhancements that we have seen in WLAN technology over the past couple of years, and every networking vendor is working hard to find ways to incorporate these technologies into their products so we can enjoy them.
Picking the Coolest Tech for Your Business
Selecting the right tech for your business is like choosing who to join The Avengers, it needs to fit your needs and work together.
Here are a few considerations I like to think about when talking about a new wireless solution:
- Works Well with What You Have
Check if the wireless solution plays nice with your current tech setup. If it’s from your existing provider, this can have benefits – it can make life easier for your IT team. Many vendors now offer centralized management options, making it a breeze to control and configure everything from one spot. - Helps out the Team Consider how well the tech supports your team in handling wireless issues. Look for features that could make their lives easier. With AI in the mix, support ticket resolutions are getting faster, and proactive alerts can save precious time.
- Keep It Simple with Automation Think about how much automation you need. A good dose of it can make routine tasks a walk in the park. So, consider your own automation strategies and what the tech can bring to the table.
- Know Your Needs Be clear about what you need. Are you tracking hardware or just after the basics like wireless access to corporate resources? Defining your needs helps you pick tech that suits your business.
- Skill Match Consider your team’s skills. Can they handle the new tech without a certification in wireless networking? Ensuring a good match between your team’s skills and the tech’s complexity is key. When transitioning to the new solution, consider finding a partner skilled in wireless design to help set you up for success.
In a nutshell, choosing the right WiFi tech for your crew is a big deal. In the ever-changing world of wireless networking, you’ve got to think about things like whether it plays nicely with your current setup, if the support is solid, how much automation you need, and if your team can operate it. Going for the latest WiFi tech has its perks, but it’s got to fit your business needs.
WiFi solutions are getting better – think WiFi 6, WiFi 6E, and the buzz around WiFi 7. Plus, the integration of Machine Learning is changing how we run networks, making downtime rare and users happier.
And don’t forget about Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) joining the party. It’s not just for your headphones; it’s bringing cool stuff like location-based services, asset tracking, and wayfinding.
So, as you sift through the sea of options out there, remember to take your time, chat with your IT friends, and find the one that is the right fit.