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How Cloud Managed IT Solutions Simplify Complex Networks

IT Solutions

Image of a cloud on a blue background surrounded by a network of technology symbols representing the challenges small and medium business face.

Cloud managed IT solutions are making it easier for small and medium businesses (SMBs) to manage increasingly complex networks, even as demand for bandwidth and data grows. Cisco Meraki is one company answering the call for cloud managed services and hardware that enable SMBs to provide access and flexibility to end users without sacrificing security.

The New Network Infrastructure of Cloud Managed IT

Technology trends are pushing demand for data to all-time highs. Connected devices are abundant, with increases in the use of mobile, wearable technology, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Meanwhile, cloud computing, automation, and virtual reality are among the innovations driving unprecedented levels of data traffic.

The modern data landscape requires advances in the infrastructure that supports and delivers data resources. Cloud managed networking services—like those offered by Meraki—integrate hardware, software, and cloud for more efficient network management.

How Do Cloud Managed IT Solutions Work?

How do cloud managed services address the growing needs of today’s technology? Meraki, for example, develops cloud managed services and devices that work together to use network resources more efficiently. Meraki offers these cloud managed networking services and solutions:

The latest Meraki hardware and systems are designed to support the emerging Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology, which was developed in response to increased demand for data and the Wi-Fi coverage that delivers it.

Cisco Meraki’s Wi-Fi 6 Hardware

The next generation of Wi-Fi—Wi-Fi 6—is expected to improve the speed, reliability, and efficiency of the networks that manage the bulk of consumer data needs. Meraki’s latest hardware devices are equipped with the technology required to support and access the benefits of Wi-Fi 6.

Meraki says its Wi-Fi 6 APs will provide wireless LANs with faster deployment of devices, simpler administration, and improved visibility. Meanwhile, the company’s scalable access and aggregation layer switches promise to help businesses reap the benefits of faster, more efficient Wi-Fi 6 coverage.

Centralized Network Management

Meraki’s hardware and supporting software and applications are all managed in a single interface. From the Meraki dashboard, IT staff can configure hardware, manage network performance, remotely troubleshoot problems, update software and applications, set provisions, and monitor network end-users and devices.

Advanced network forensics with live and historical data allow the information system manager to dive deeper into network use, identify and investigate potential threats, and restrict usage of the network.

For example, if employees access the company network under a bring your own device (BYOD) policy, this can create a security risk. From the Meraki dashboard, an information system manager can view the activity history of a specific user or device and restrict the access of any device that does not meet predefined security requirements.

Cloud Managed IT Solutions for Small to Medium Businesses

The simplified, scalable networking possibilities offered by cloud managed IT solutions like those offered by Meraki might be the solution that many SMBs need to accommodate growing demand for data while maintaining security. However, as with any IT solution, decisions should be made with an understanding of the technology in question and a thorough evaluation of the company’s ability to support it.