New hospitality technologies support efficient operations and stellar guest experiences. Yet, adding IoT solutions or hosting large conferences may strain your existing system. Your tech amenities won’t deliver a high return on investment without a stable and secure wireless network. Therein lies another challenge.
Overseeing your WiFi system is a full-time job. It requires time and financial resources to update infrastructure, replace old equipment, and patch firmware. Unexpected outages and expenses diminish budgets and leave your IT team short-handed. Without oversight, you’re blind to potential threats and out-of-balance loads. One packed convention or rogue access point (AP) puts your reputation risk. Few hotels can afford slow speeds or a total shutdown from a ransomware attack.
Fortunately, managed WiFi providers solve your wireless dilemma with tailored recommendations. Discover how managed WiFi solutions free up resources, improve guest experiences, and ensure smooth operations.
What does managed WiFi mean?
With managed WiFi, you outsource your wireless network to a third-party vendor. Some internet service providers (ISPs) offer plans for businesses. However, dedicated, managed WiFi providers deliver custom and comprehensive solutions. The latest WiFi as a Service Market Global Report shows, “The managed services segment is expected to lead the WiFi as a service market from 2020 to 2025.” Enterprises turn to managed service providers for their “skilled human resources, infrastructure, and industry certifications.” This cost-effective approach covers services such as:
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The configuration and deployment of wireless devices and hardware
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Ongoing maintenance for infrastructure, equipment, and hardware
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Continuous monitoring to ensure security and stability
In short, your managed WiFi network runs seamlessly in the background. Your IT team isn’t overburdened with infrastructure improvements. And management has access to advanced analytics and reporting features to adjust bandwidth and predict future needs.
Managed WiFi Vs. Unmanaged
Cloud-managed WiFi solutions remove a considerable workload from your IT staff. With unmanaged or in-house networks, you’re responsible for every component, from WiFi routers to access points. Each element requires updating, patching, and numerous security protocols. Older systems demand extra upkeep, which often means your IT teams spend more time repairing than optimizing your technology solutions.
With managed WiFi services, your provider develops a secure wireless network and monitors it 24/7/365. You pay a monthly fee, which helps you avoid unexpected expenses. Service providers maintain your system and its components, so you don’t have to worry about patching firmware or updating old devices. By partnering with a hospitality-focused vendor, you get a solution tailored to your hotel.
How does managed WiFi work?
Once you decide to move forward with managed WiFi for your hotel, the process starts with a site survey and a personalized WiFi network plan. Next, your provider installs and tests your system for optimal performance. Once configured, your network is ready to go. For best results, select a solution that offers ongoing support. For example, providers may supply:
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Hotel guest support teams
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Training and onboarding programs for your hotel staff and IT employees
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Coordination with your ISP to fix connection issues
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Robust technical support features
Cloud Managed WiFi Benefits and Features
Hotel owners switch to a managed WiFi service to preserve time and financial resources while providing a secure and reliable guest WiFi network. Managed solutions offer features, like reporting options and capital planning assistance, that support your current and longterm goals.
Managed WiFi Benefits
For many hoteliers, the best part of a managed WiFi service is that you can simply call for help. Your provider remotely evaluates your system. They perform updates, identify hazards, and work with you to troubleshoot minor issues. From afar, a managed WiFi provider can even boost a nearby signal as a temporary patch during a device outage. For challenging problems, a certified technician visits your location and resolves the issue.
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Cost savings, reliability, and support options also give your hotel brand a competitive edge. Advantages of managed WiFi services include:
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Predictable costs stabilize your operating budget.
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A reduction in IT expenses frees up resources.
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Improved security means less risk to your hotel and guests.
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High-level analytics and reporting support informed decision-making.
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Excellent support options elevate staff and guest experiences.
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The ability to quickly scale WiFi services up or down keeps your business agile.
Managed WiFi Features
Essential features of managed WiFi for hotels include robust support options, intuitive customer dashboards, and integrated systems. Custom wireless solutions, like the Dominion Platform, collect real-time data. The system learns, tracks and adapts to your guest and property needs without forgoing essential security and privacy protocols.
Managed WiFi providers also offer a range of technical support features. Forget waiting for hours on the phone or online. Instead, reach a technician within a minute or two. Get help with device monitoring, troubleshooting, and replacement along with internet and network support.
Top Managed WiFi Solutions for Hotels
While your ISP may promote a form of managed WiFi, a company dedicated to the hospitality industry provides a platform solely for hotels. Your provider installs, maintains, and updates your hardware and equipment, like routers, APs, and switches. But, top managed WiFi providers also offer options like:
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Conference management features handle VLAN configurations, bandwidth shaping, extra ports, and even online scheduling and resource guides for events.
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24/7/365 customer support services assist your hotel staff and hotel guests for positive experiences with your high-speed wireless network.
Deploy the Best Managed WiFi System
The demand for fast, reliable, and secure internet services is increasing. At the same time, your guests use high-bandwidth applications that place more significant pressure on your network. It no longer makes sense to employ a full staff to manage your hotel’s wireless network. Instead, partner with a reputable managed WiFi service provider dedicated to the hospitality industry. Leverage a custom solution to deliver optimal results so you can reach your short and longterm goals.
