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How SMBs can proactively manage wireless networks with Cisco WLC monitoring


Small and midsize businesses (SMBs) rely on wireless networks to power daily operations, connect with customers, and foster growth. Yet, managing these networks effectively can be challenging without the right tools. 

Cisco wireless LAN controllers (WLCs) make wireless monitoring straightforward by helping SMBs oversee all access points (APs). When Cisco WLCs are combined with Site24x7’s powerful features, SMBs gain the ability to actively monitor, optimize, and secure their networks with ease.

Why Cisco WLC monitoring is a game-changer for SMBs

Cisco WLCs offer benefits such as:
  • Streamlined management: Oversee multiple APs from one interface.
  • Easy scalability: Expand network coverage as your business grows.
  • Enhanced security: Apply and enforce network-wide security policies effortlessly.
  • Improved performance: Optimize bandwidth and manage traffic dynamically.
When organizations monitor Cisco WLCs in Site24x7, these capabilities are further enhanced to empower SMBs with actionable insights and simplified management.

Challenges SMBs face with wireless networks

Managing wireless networks often presents unique hurdles for SMBs, such as:
  • Frequent network downtime: Do you experience unreliable connectivity during peak hours?
  • A lack of visibility: Are you able to pinpoint performance issues quickly?
  • Overloaded devices: Are too many devices slowing down your network?
  • Security gaps: How do you monitor and prevent unauthorized access?

How SMBs can proactively manage wireless networks with Cisco WLCs and Site24x7

To overcome these challenges, SMBs can leverage Site24x7 to take proactive control of their networks. 

  1. Centralize monitoring and control

    Cisco WLCs consolidate network monitoring, offering real-time visibility into connected devices and APs. Site24x7 enhances this by:

    1. Monitoring key metrics such as CPU and memory utilization and tracking the number of clients connected to the WLCs.

    2. Sending real-time alerts for anomalies like outages or degraded performance.

    3. Providing a unified dashboard to view and analyze network health.

    Scenario
    Consider a midsize business with a multilocation setup facing connectivity issues.
    Use case
    It can leverage Site24x7's Cisco WLC monitoring to detect and resolve connectivity issues at its branches before they impact operations.

  2. Optimize wireless coverage and performance

    Cisco WLCs' dynamic AP management ensures consistent coverage. Site24x7 enhances this by:

    1. Offering network maps to identify coverage gaps.

    2. Analyzing client distribution to ensure optimal performance.

    3. Generating actionable reports to identify and resolve performance bottlenecks.

    Scenario
    Let's consider a co-working space that wishes to reduce costs by effectively using APs.
    Use case
    It can use Site24x7's topology maps and Layer 2 maps to reconfigure AP placement, effectively eliminating dead zones and improving user satisfaction.

  3. Strengthen network security

    Cisco WLCs provide enterprise-grade tools for securing wireless networks, including encryption and secure guest access. Site24x7 complements this by:

    1. Monitoring for unauthorized configuration change attempts.

    2. Ensuring network compliance with security policies.

    3. ​Providing detailed security insights to address firmware vulnerabilities.

    Scenario
    Let's consider a retail store that faces unauthorized devices connecting to its network.
    Use case
    It can easily identify unauthorized devices attempting to connect to its network. Site24x7's real-time alert system allows the store to block these attempts instantly and safeguard customer data.

  4. Gain actionable insights through traffic analysis

    Understanding network usage patterns is key to making informed decisions. Cisco WLCs provide traffic data, and Site24x7 amplifies this by:

    1. ​Visualizing traffic trends and user behavior over time.

    2. ​Highlighting anomalies so you can address potential issues proactively.

    3. ​Setting custom alerts for bandwidth spikes or irregular usage.

    5. Scenario
    A restaurant chain has identified heavy streaming during lunch hours, impacting payment systems.
    Use case
    By using Site24x7 to prioritize point-of-sale system traffic, the chain can ensure seamless transactions.

How Site24x7 enhances Cisco WLC monitoring

Site24x7 offers a comprehensive solution for monitoring Cisco WLCs, enabling SMBs to:
  • Centralize management: View all controllers, APs, and clients on one platform.
  • Receive customizable alerts: Stay informed about critical network events.
  • Analyze historical data: Forecast future demand and plan network expansion.
  • Optimize performance: Use advanced insights to fine-tune the network.
  • Gain visibility: Leverage Site24x7's unified monitoring features to gain complete network observability. 

Why SMBs should act now

As businesses grow, the demands on wireless networks increase. Proactively managing your network with Site24x7 ensures:
  • Reliable connectivity for critical operations.
  • Scalable solutions to support future growth.
  • Enhanced experiences for customers and employees alike.

Take the 1st step towards smarter wireless network management

Are you fully leveraging the capabilities of Cisco WLCs and Site24x7? Evaluate your current setup today and explore how Site24x7's powerful tools can revolutionize your wireless network management. 

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