Tag: ruckus wireless

Wifi 6 Technology & The Best Access Points To Recommend

What Is Wifi 6

Wifi 6 refers to the latest generation of wireless technology, also known as 802.11ax. Another name for this new standard is High Efficiency Wifi. It replaces 802.11ac, which now goes by Wifi 5. Wireless access points and routers incorporating the technology are increasingly ubiquitous. And many new smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other connected devices are Wifi 6-certified to take full advantage of its performance capabilities.

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How Is Wifi 6 Different Than Wifi 5

Wifi 6 offers several advantages over Wifi 5 when it comes to speed, performance, and even security. First, speed – often referred to as throughput – can max out around 10 Gbps for a Wifi 6 device, compared to 7 Gbps for Wifi 5. While that’s an obvious upgrade, performance accounts for a significantly greater boost – some 400% in what’s called throughput per area.

What does that mean? It means more devices can connect in high-density areas with low to no latency. In other words, it’s real-world speed. Finally, security is better, too, as Wifi 6 supports WPA3 encryption standards, the most secure version of Wifi Protected Access protocol.

Why Upgrade to Wifi 6

While manufacturers seem to release new access points and routers constantly, an upgrade from a prior generation model to Wifi 6 is worth strong consideration. Wifi 6 supports more connected devices at greater speeds with better security than its predecessors. And the differences are significant. To recap:

  • Top speed more than a third better than the previous best
  • Throughput per area is 4 times better
  • And latency is 75% lower

These all represent major leaps in performance, and along with security improvements, make a strong argument for upgrading.

Which Brands Already Carry Wifi 6 Access Points

Several brands now offer Wifi 6 access points, with more on the way. Firewalls.com carries Wifi 6 access points from Fortinet, Aruba, Ruckus, and Cisco Meraki. Models range from small business/small office options to large enterprise and even stadiums and arenas. This generation of access points comes with indoor and outdoor options as well.

What Are The Recommended Wifi 6 Access Point Models

With the growing number of Wifi 6 access points now on the market, finding the right fit for a given scenario can be a challenge. So to meet that challenge and sift through the clutter, here are a few recommended Wifi 6 access points to suit varying business needs.

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For Easy Deployment

Aruba Instant On AP22

Aruba AP22

It doesn’t get much easier than instant, does it? The Aruba Instant On AP22 offers a quick way into the Wifi 6 world. As its name suggests, you can basically turn it on and have wireless ready to go. This is ideal for a small business with limited staff or small branch office scenario.

And while the ease of deployment is nice, the AP22 also comes packed full of features at an affordable price. It includes mounting hardware, simple management tools, and even built-in security features like firewalling and application control, with no need for external controllers.

Tech Specs

  • Deployment: Indoor
  • Performance: 2×2:2 MU-MIMO
  • Mesh Support: Smart Mesh Wi-Fi
  • Throughput: 1.774 Gbps
  • PoE: PoE 802.3af

For Network Integration

Fortinet FortiAP 231F

MR44

Chances are if you’re a small to mid-size business, you already have a firewall. Maybe you even have a switch and endpoint, too. And if those solutions happen to be from one of the top security vendors out there, Fortinet, then this FortiAP 231F is a good pick for your entrée into Wifi 6.

The FortiAP 231F places you firmly into the Fortinet Security Fabric, which allows all your Fortinet solutions to communicate seamlessly with one another with single-pane-of-glass management. As far as what this access point offers specifically, it includes built-in security and a third radio for beacon and location-scanning. It can also optionally be managed through the cloud and is more than capable outside the Fortinet ecosystem as well.

Tech Specs

  • Deployment: Indoor
  • Performance: 2×2:2 MU-MIMO
  • Mesh Support: Yes
  • Throughput: 1.2 Gbps
  • PoE: PoE+ 802.3at

Look to the Cloud

Cisco Meraki MR44

MR44

Cisco Meraki is pretty well-known as a pioneer in the cloud space, and you can be a pioneer both there and in Wifi 6 by choosing the MR44 access point. The MR44 comes with Meraki’s noted cloud management architecture, which eliminates the need for traditional wireless controllers. It also offers zero-touch deployment, easy visibility and control throughout the network, and seamless firmware updates.

The MR44 itself is an enterprise grade access point, so if your performance demands are a little higher, it’s a great fit. As with other APs noted in this piece, Meraki’s MR Series features built-in security, plus a dedicated extra radio. And if you’re already a Meraki customer for other solutions, it integrates especially nicely.

Tech Specs

  • Deployment: Indoor
  • Performance: 4×4:4 MU-MIMO
  • Mesh Support: Self-healing, Zero-configuration
  • Throughput: 3 Gbps
  • PoE: PoE+ 802.3af/at

Let’s Take It Outside

Ruckus T750

Our previous three access points were designed for indoor deployments, but this AP from Ruckus doesn’t care where you set it up. The T750 offers the performance of Wifi 6 with IP-67 durability to withstand rough conditions, indoors or outdoors. When it comes to deployment options, think stadiums, airports, convention centers, and the like. Each individual T750 can handle over 1,000 users at once.

Ruckus offers the T750 in the controller-less Unleashed model as well as the traditional ZoneFlex option. Both are easy to deploy and manage. And they boast other special features, like built-in IoT radios, BeamFlex antennas to optimize connectivity, and the security of the aforementioned WPA3.

Tech Specs

  • Deployment: Outdoor
  • Performance: 4×4:4 MU-MIMO
  • Mesh Support: SmartMesh
  • Throughput: 2.4 Gbps
  • PoE: PoE++ 802.3bt

So these are just a few examples to help you navigate the wonderful world of Wifi 6. But wait, there’s more! Browse all the Wifi 6 options Firewalls.com has to offer. And if you need to talk it through a bit more, chat with an expert on our site or call 866-645-2140.

The Best Wireless Access Points of 2020

Setting up wifi is a business imperative in 2020, and that means finding the best wireless access points is, too. The days of wireless networking being an option are long gone. But how do you go from knowing you need wifi to making it happen? What are the best options for getting your unique needs addressed and your network up and running? Why are we asking so many questions? Read on for the answers, and for the best wireless access points of 2020…

What does a wireless access point do?

A wireless access point in essence creates your wireless network. With it, you’re connecting to a hard-wired router, network switch, or other hub. In many business settings, that means not only offering access to the internet, but also to your workplace network, including its applications, files, etcetera. With the right wireless access point, you get built-in security and the ability to add separate guest wifi.

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Which is better, wifi extender or access point?

A wireless access point is better than a wifi extender when it comes to performance and configuration capabilities. While extenders are normally less expensive, you get what you pay for. An extender replicates an existing network transmitted from a router, and extends its reach. However, the quality of the connection degrades. A wireless access point creates its own network, ensuring top notch performance for those in range. And you can manage and configure access points to your needs.

How do I choose a wireless access point?

Choosing a wireless access point comes down to which factors are most important to you. Access points come with a variety of radio and bandwidth options that affect performance. So it’s important to consider how many users will need access simultaneously and your connection speed.

Also, consider your space – as in walls that could hamper signal strength, wiring to power the devices (PoE options are available), and how you’ll mount the devices (wall, ceiling, indoor/outdoor). While some deployment scenarios only require one access point, many often need multiple APs to ensure quality connectivity.

Security and management are additional factors. Each manufacturer offers its own management platform to gain visibility into your network and configure it to your needs. And built-in security options vary. Let’s dive into the best wireless access points of 2020.

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The Best Wireless Access Points of 2020

SonicWall SonicWave 231c

Key Specs

  • Performance: 2×2:2 MU-MIMO
  • Wireless Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wave 2
  • PoE: None
  • Deployment: Indoor (Ceiling)

What makes SonicWall SonicWave 231c one of the best wireless access points of 2020?

SonicWaves are the latest and greatest wireless access points from SonicWall. They offer Wave 2 wifi performance, allowing for more users with less lag. On top of that, the SonicWave 231c and its siblings integrates with the robust security of SonicWall NGFWs. That security extends to the AP itself, too, with a dedicated third radio focused on security. Plus, even if you don’t have a SonicWall firewall, it comes equipped with advanced security services like the Capture ATP sandbox on its own. In addition, you can manage the SonicWave through your SonicWall firewall, or with SonicWall’s WiFi Cloud Manager – an intuitive, cloud-based WiFi network management system ideal for networks of any size.

WatchGuard AP225W

Key Specs

  • Performance: 2×2:2 MU-MIMO
  • Wireless Standard: 802.11ac Wave 2
  • PoE: 802.3at PoE+
  • Deployment: Indoor (Wall/Ceiling)

What makes WatchGuard AP225W one of the best wireless access points of 2020?

The AP225W also features Wave 2 wireless. Plus, it combines that performance with the security of one of the Wireless Intrusion Prevention Systems (WIPS) out there. The WIPS detects and IDs access points and client devices to intelligently prevent six known categories of Wi-Fi threats. The best part? It does this without noticeably impacting performance. And another best part? security scanning and enforcement continues even if your connection is interrupted. On top of that, you get access to WatchGuard’s Wi-Fi Cloud management. This provides visibility, troubleshooting, and configuration capabilities in one place. Plus, it makes setup a snap. You can get your AP225W up and running in less than two minutes after connecting to the cloud. And as for deployment, its PoE+ capabilities make it simple to connect and turn on with one cord – whether you choose a wall or ceiling.

Fortinet FortiAP 431F

Key Specs

  • Performance: 4×4:4 MU-MIMO
  • Wireless Standard: 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6
  • PoE: PoE 802.3at
  • Deployment: Indoor (Wall/Ceiling)

What makes Fortinet FortiAP 431F one of the best wireless access points of 2020?

The FortiAP 431F, along with its siblings in the newly created F-series (the 433F and 231F) are the newest access points on this list. That newness also means the latest in wireless performance, with 802.11ax – better known as WiFi 6. WiFi 6 access points are faster and have more capacity than previous generations. And with the FortiAP 431F, you’re getting a top of the line device. It features four radios, five internal antennas (or antennae), and 24/7 scanning across both wireless bands while still providing access on both the 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. You also have the flexibility of Power over Ethernet and wall or ceiling deployment options. Fortinet keeps security top of mind as well, with built-in wireless security, integration into the Fortinet Security Fabric, and management either through your FortiGate firewall or the FortiAP Cloud provisioning and management portal.

Cisco Meraki MR70

Key Specs

  • Performance: 2×2:2 MU MIMO
  • Wireless Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wave 2
  • PoE: PoE 802.3af
  • Deployment: Outdoor

What makes Cisco Meraki MR70 one of the best wireless access points of 2020?

We couldn’t make a top wireless access points list without including an outdoor option. And Cisco Meraki’s MR70 does just that, providing enterprise-grade security and simple management
in a ruggedized, IP67-rated form factor which protects it from the elements. Just as with our other best-ofs, Meraki doesn’t skimp on security. The MR70 boasts Air Marshal, a built-in WIPS for threat detection and remediation. Plus, it’s managed through the Meraki cloud, which monitors your AP around the clock and ensures you always get the latest firmware updates as soon as they’re out – protecting you from any emerging issues. It also makes setup a snap, with self-configuring, rapid plug-and-play deployment. The physical device has internal antennas, PoE, and plenty of Wave 2 connectivity juice, too.

Ruckus Unleashed R610

Key Specs

  • Performance: 3×3:3 MU MIMO
  • Wireless Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wave 2
  • PoE: PoE 802.3af/at
  • Deployment: Indoor (Wall/Ceiling/Desk)

What makes Ruckus Unleashed R610 one of the best wireless access points of 2020?

For our final entry on this list, we’re going controller-less. Ruckus Unleashed wireless access points don’t require separate controllers and access point licenses to run your wifi, significantly
reducing upfront costs. As a matter of fact, the R610 can handle up to 25 access points with no controller necessary. The R610 also integrates BeamFlex+, which continually forms and directs each wifi packet over the best performing signal path. And it adapts in real time to anticipate hand-held device movement and rotation – because mobile devices are just that, mobile – ensuring consistent performance. This technology also boosts coverage, meaning you’ll need fewer APs to cover the same area. The R610 features multiple power over ethernet options, a wide range of mounting possibilities, and simple deployment.

 

Looking for the best wireless access points for your small business?

Give us a call at 866-957-2975 to find the perfect fit!

Shopping for email security, endpoint, or ransomware protection? Check these out, too:

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What’s All That Ruckus? Firewalls.com Teams Up with Ruckus Wireless!

What’s All That Ruckus?!

Firewalls.com is announcing, loud and proud, the introduction of Ruckus Wireless products to our website, and to celebrate the big ruckus, we want to give you 30% OFF on ALL Ruckus Unleashed wireless access points. There’s never been a better time to build or expand a wireless network for your small business!

Who Is Ruckus Wireless?

Ruckus Wireless is an industry powerhouse offering indoor and outdoor wireless access points, network switches, and controllers to extend high-quality Wi-Fi at a budget-friendly price. When connectivity really matters, organizations turn to Ruckus and it’s no mystery why. Ruckus Access Points are up to any challenge, from high client density, signal-sapping building materials, complex outdoor deployments, and more. Filled to the brim with innovative patented technology like BeamFlex Adaptive Antennas, Ruckus is always thinking outside of the box when it comes to solving the wireless world’s toughest problems.

Check out our Ruckus Wireless Access Points and enterprise-class ICX Network Switches!

Ruckus Wireless provides fast, secure, affordable wireless internet and Firewalls.com is offering 30% off sale price of any Ruckus Unleashed wireless access point

What is Ruckus Unleashed?

Ruckus Unleashed is a series of controller-less access points with super simplified management, making them the perfect fit for small businesses looking to deploy or expand a wireless network! Check out our more in-depth look at Ruckus Unleashed appliances to learn more.

Still Need Help Deciding?

Okay! To sweeten the deal, we’ll also map out your office’s wireless landscape to provide you with a reliable, predictive map of Wi-Fi signal coverage and performance using the ZonePlanner mapping tool–for FREE. The ZonePlanner mapping tool helps you predict dead zones, optimize placements, and more in order to ensure the maximum effectiveness of your wireless investment! ZoneFlex accounts for antenna patterns, building materials, obstructions, WAP configurations, and building layout to show you exactly how a Wi-Fi signal will behave in your office.

Learn How To Get A FREE ZonePlanner Wireless Mapping Report

This report is 100% unique to your needs, your location, and your products. That means you’re ONLY going to purchase the wireless devices you need—no more, no less. And remember, we’re going to give you 30% OFF any Ruckus Unleashed access points you choose!

This Ruckus Wireless sale is valid only when you speak with one of our Account Managers, so grab your phone and dial 317-225-4117 to get 30% off Ruckus Unleashed products, a FREE customized ZonePlanner report, & expert guidance from our firewall geniuses. Mention the promo code RUCKUS30OFF when you call!

Call 317-225-4117 & mention promo code RUCKUS30OFF!