As enterprise networks become more complex, cloud-managed network solutions are a strategic choice. With limited resources and budgets, organizations need to improve operational efficiency, especially for those managing multi-site networks. However, how does a cloud-managed network help simplify network management and how does it differ from a traditional network? Find the answers in the discussion below.
What is a Cloud Managed Network?
A cloud-managed network is the concept of a computer network efficiently managed through it. This management method leverages a cloud platform to monitor and manage network devices and improve the service experience by leveraging the latest technologies such as big data, AI, and cloud computing. Typically, a cloud-managed network is implemented as a Software as a Service (SaaS) service that controls on-premises network devices such as wireless access points, switches, routers, or security gateways.
What is the Difference Between Cloud Managed Networking and Traditional Networking?
Cloud-managed networks offer several significant advantages over traditional networks. In traditional networks, control of the network resides on hardware such as routers and switches, requiring network administrators to be at the physical location of the device to perform management. In contrast, in a cloud-managed network, network control is centralized in the cloud, allowing network administrators to manage the network from anywhere with an Internet connection.
In addition, cloud-managed network management is more efficient than traditional networks. Network administrators are not tied to the physical location of the equipment, so they can manage the network from multiple locations with Internet access. This flexibility allows the cloud-managed network to easily adapt to business needs.
In terms of security, cloud-managed networks tend to be more secure because the cloud management platform automatically applies security updates and patches to network devices.
From a cost perspective, a cloud-managed network provides financial efficiencies for businesses. Businesses do not have to invest in and maintain their own network management equipment. Instead, they pay a monthly subscription fee for cloud management services, simplifying the cost structure and increasing the scalability of the network infrastructure.
How Does a Cloud Managed Network Work?
A cloud managed network simplifies network management by integrating network devices, configurations, and data through a third-party cloud server. Network administrators access the cloud server through a web application or dashboard, where they can monitor and manage all network devices in a centralized platform.
In practical terms, a cloud-managed network consists of three interrelated layers:
1. Device Layer: These are the physical devices that make up the enterprise network at various locations, including remote devices connected to the cloud network via VPN.
2. Cloud Layer: The integration of hardware and software through a unified cloud platform. Users can access this platform through a dashboard to manage devices and use applications from the software layer.
3. Software Layer: This layer includes applications that add value to the cloud network. These applications can be third party or internally developed by the enterprise based on specific needs.
Read more: Discover Success Strategies for Multi-cloud Management with a Cloud Smart Approach
5 Reasons Businesses Need a Cloud Managed Network
Cloud managed networks offer many benefits to businesses, particularly in terms of convenience, visibility, efficiency, scalability, and cost. Here are five reasons why businesses should consider a cloud-managed network.
1. Ease of Network Management
Simplify network management with a unified platform and built-in automation, freeing up IT teams to focus on other, more valuable projects.
2. Network Visibility
Gain deep visibility into network performance, resource consumption, and overall network health for all users, devices, applications, and network infrastructure across all locations in real time from a single dashboard.
3. Operational Efficiency
Continuously analyze the network to maintain optimal performance. Network devices such as Wi-Fi APs and switches are automatically updated with firmware and security patches.
4. Flexible Scalability
Adapt your network management solution to meet dynamic business needs. Easily scale up and down without disrupting the user experience or incurring additional costs.
5. Cost-Effective
Optimal scalability helps businesses avoid excessive CapEx, while ease of use and improved visibility reduce OpEx by simplifying IT training, management and the help desk.
While modern networks offer many benefits, complexity remains a challenge. With multiple devices, cables and configurations, the task is especially complicated for time-strapped IT teams. To overcome these obstacles, RUCKUS One is a reliable solution. By leveraging AI, this solution makes managing multi-site networks easier, safer and more efficient.
RUCKUS One, the Leading Cloud Managed Network Solution
RUCKUS One is a cloud managed network solution that simplifies network management by integrating all functions into a single cloud platform. This solution is designed to meet the needs of different types of businesses, both small and large.
RUCKUS One Key Features
- AI-driven Network Assurance: Automatic problem detection, severity ranking, and remediation recommendations.
- Self-Optimizing Network Management: Network automatically adjusts to maintain optimal performance without manual intervention.
- Cloud-based Management: Manage the network from anywhere via a web interface or mobile app, giving users complete flexibility.
- Multi-access Network Support: Unified management is available for Wi-Fi, wired, and cellular networks, all from a single platform.
- Flexible Deployment Options: Choose a cloud or hybrid implementation to meet your specific needs.
Benefits of RUCKUS One as a Cloud Managed Network Solution
- Network Device Management from the Cloud: Easily manage network devices, including access points, switches and routers, from the cloud anytime, anywhere via an Internet connection.
- Complete Network Visibility: Thoroughly monitor network health, performance, and usage to quickly identify and resolve issues and make strategic decisions to improve network performance.
- Automatic Adjustment and Optimization: Equipped with AI to automatically tune and optimize the network, saving time and energy while ensuring the network is always operating at peak performance.
Strengthen Your Business Network with RUCKUS One, Only at Virtus
Simplify and improve the performance of your business network with RUCKUS One. Virtus Technology Indonesia (VTI), as an authorized distributor of RUCKUS, is ready to help you avoid trial and error when implementing the reliable RUCKUS One solution. If you are interested in experiencing the benefits of a cloud-managed network with Virtus, please contact us using the link here.
Author: Wilsa Azmalia Putri
Content Writer CTI Group
