Ruckus recently made history by announcing the development of Ruckus Networks R750, the world’s first WiFi 6-certified access point, making this a hugely exciting time for Curve IT to be partnering with the firm. In other words, WiFi 6 is finally becoming a reality.

Let’s take a closer look at what this means.

What is WiFi 6?

WiFi 6 is the latest evolution in WiFi standards – the last, WiFi 5, was released over five years ago. WiFi 6 uses OFDMA – Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access – which breaks down the signal into sub-carriers and scheduling. In practice, this means that low-data-rate transmission can take place from several users at the same time – and so many devices can be connected simultaneously without a drop in WiFi speed and performance.

As such, whilst WiFi 6 can technically increase client device speeds by nearly four times compared with WiFi 5, its really transformative impact is in relation to efficiency. It optimises network capacity and improves performance in busy environments. It can also extend battery life of individual devices.

Ultimately, even the most ultra-dense indoor environments will enjoy high-speed connectivity across all devices, making WiFi 6 a powerful innovation for business across a range of sectors. Whether you’re running a growing business with employees using multiple devices simultaneously, developing a complex IoT ecosystem, or running an environment with large numbers of visitors frequently arriving and leaving, like an events space, WIFi 6 should have a hugely positive impact. 

The importance of access points

However, to harness all these benefits, organisations need to install access point such as routers which are able to connect a diverse set of client devices – from simple IoT sensors which require low power and low latency, through to devices running high-performance applications like 4K video streaming or artificial intelligence solutions. This is where Ruckus’s new access point comes in.

Crucially, WiFi 6 is backwards-compatible, so by installing WiFi 6 access points organisations will not be rendering their WiFi 5 devices obsolete. Rather, they will be putting the foundations in place for a next-generation approach to wireless networking.

High-speed, high-bandwidth internet connectivity is going to be a critical element in business operations over the coming years. From simply keeping employees, partners, visitors and customers connected, to gathering IoT data from across the organisation, to running high-performance, next-generation applications, all will be powered by effective WiFi infrastructures. WiGi 6 will be genuinely transformative, and we are excited to be working alongside one of the giants in the industry.

To learn more about how you could harness WiFi 6 in your organisation, get in touch with us today.

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However, such events also introduce significant organisational and logistic challenges – not least in terms of delivering reliable WiFi connectivity for staff and visitors alike.

The backbone of event organisation

WiFi connectivity is crucial for the smooth running of any major event. It keeps mobile staff connected with each other and their managers, enabling the smooth sharing of information, dynamic reallocation of resource and rapid incident response should an incident occur. It also powers mobile payments, an increasingly important part of the revenue flow at outdoor events in particular.

For example, the Brighton Spiegeltent, part of Brighton Fringe, needs WiFi for both mobile ticket sales and a range of different food vendors; a reliable service is crucial for customer satisfaction, smooth operation, and to attract the best vendors. At Curve IT, we were delighted to recently be reappointed to handle the event’s WiFi and network requirements.

Event marketing also requires fast and reliable WiFi. At multifaceted events such as festivals, it is increasingly common for mobile apps to be used to keep attendees up-to-date on evolving events, and to suggest places for them to go or tickets for them to purchase. Alternatively, promotions and ads for upcoming events can be directly ‘pushed’ to users’ mobile devices.  These techniques only work if the WiFi is reliable and can support reasonable volumes of data.

Indeed, for attendees at major events, reliable WiFi is increasingly seen as a must-have, not a luxury extra. Attendees want to be able to post to social media, access up-to-the-minute event information including menus of food options and even find lost friends, all using freely available WiFi.

The challenges of crowds

However, the obvious challenge of delivering fast and reliable WiFi at major events is the crowds that said events hope to attract. Tens or even hundreds of thousands of users, all attempting to use data-rich applications on their mobile devices? It is a recipe for draining the cellular network capacity.

Additionally, many major events take place in environments which introduce practical and physical challenges in terms of setting up a WiFi network. They may be in rural locations and spread over wide geographical areas. Alternatively, as with events like Brighton Fringe or Brighton Pride, they may be dispersed within an urban area, in which case choosing where to place cellular equipment, and ensuring quality coverage between different building materials and in awkward spaces may be difficult.

All this means that delivering fast and reliable connectivity – for staff, third-party vendors and attendees alike – at major events is a specialist pursuit. Curve IT is proud to have built an expert practice in this area, supporting events as diverse as Brighton Fringe and Brighton Pride with bespoke connectivity solutions which can handle both their unusual environments and their huge crowds. Furthermore, we can build and dissemble such solutions quickly and efficiently, ensuring that WiFi connectivity isn’t another headache for major event organisation – it’s a simple add-on.

If you are looking for a connectivity solution for your own event – no matter how major or boutique – get in touch with us today.

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What services and applications could sit on a build to rent converged network?

• HSIA – (high speed internet access) for residents
• IPTV – television services
• VoIP – Voice over IP telephony services for residents and staff
• Access control and door locking systems
• CCTV
• Building Management Systems
• Property Management Systems
• Point of Sale
• Digital Signage

What are the advantages of a build to rent converged networks?

Better performance; Reduced cost; More flexibility; Minimising environmental impact

• Lower cost of installation: installing one core infrastructure can reduce the amount of cabling required, and ensure that switches are used in the most efficient way. We have seen cost reductions of around 30% moving from a traditional network architecture to converged.
• Better network management: a high-performing network is critical for the smooth operation of all the services within your building and having a converged network allows you to choose a single operator to oversee these services, and so offer a better level of service to your residents and team. In the past you may have multiple different networks all managed by different vendors, meaning different SLA’s, help desks, operating hours etc. A converged network has one management platform which can allow better monitoring and allow issues to be identified and dealt with much more quickly.
• Flexibility and future proofing: Having an enterprise grade active network means adding new or extra services and applications can be completed much more easily and potentially without having to add new cabling or hardware. It’s impossible to say any technology is ‘future-proof’ however the 10Gb standard is currently recommended and fully suited for most needs.
• Better design and hardware: with all services running through one core infrastructure it often proves more cost-effective to increase the sophistication, capacity and performance of this core to levels that would not be commercially sensible if running multiple networks. We typically see a move from multiple 1Gb in a traditional environment to 10Gb in a converged, offering potentially a huge uplift in performance. This will normally include resiliency and redundancy to a much higher level.
• Minimising environmental impact: a single connection manages and operates all the systems, meaning reduced power usage and carbon footprint. Less hardware takes up less space and ensures the right amount of switch ports are available, in the right locations. Monitoring network ports, cables, connectors and components in real time with an intelligent infrastructure management system allows the network to be managed far more efficiently and optimises energy consumption.

 Are there other considerations?

Many, and this is where the design and management skills of Curve IT are paramount. These are just a few of the many considerations you will need to take into account.

• Resiliency – how to deal with power failures. We can advise on UPS or generator back-up power.
• Network resiliency – spanning tree? What support packs on hardware?
• Redundancy – internet services into and out of the building and the routes these could take. Do you need geo-diverse routings? How many 9’s in your SLA?
• Bandwidth management (WAN) – what do you need and when do you need it? What is the best model? Who is the best provider and do they have the interconnects you need?
• Bandwidth management (LAN) – what applications do your residents / team need? Should some be limited? Do you want a revenue stream?
• QoS – how, where and when?
• VLANs – who and how to manage?
• PAN – do your residents need a Personal Area Network?

The post Why should Build to Rent operators consider Converged Networks? appeared first on Curve IT.

Tenants in the PRS are increasingly seeking high-spec apartments incorporating state-of-the-art technology: MDUs are becoming luxurious living spaces where lighting, heating, and access can be controlled easily and intuitively – with instant connectivity available for tenants on a growing number of devices.

(A recent tech survey showed residents of MDUs had an average of 17 devices with internet connection per apartment.)

Meeting high technological expectations

• Smart phones and smart TVs, WiFi-enabled lighting, heating and security will soon be jostling for bandwidth space with smart fridges, smart clothing and other wireless tech.
• The rise of voice-activated home hubs such as Amazon Echo and Google Home is driving opportunities for seamless shopping and marketing without a laptop or tablet in sight.

Around 21 billion devices will be connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) by 2020.    

The best in-house technology

• By deploying a building-wide WiFi platform a PRS developer can engage with residents on many different levels.
• Guest engagement through portal options ensures residents feel part of a modern, connected network, which benefits them in many different ways.
• Curve IT provide full reporting and analytics to the operator.
• Resident portals serve multiple functions: tenants can communicate with one another and alert building management teams about urgent matters. Residents can also use a portal to receive notifications or upgrade their accommodation or connectivity.
• Flexible business models can deliver a revenue stream to operators.
• A great product and service gives the operator a competitive advantage over other PRS operators.
• Internet access is included in the rent, and Curve IT can create an infrastructure where residents can easily upgrade for a managed monthly payment with the client.
• Carefully designed placement of WiFi access points means residents have superb access throughout the entire building, whilst minimising the number of points needed, so saving money for the build.
• The Curve IT Personal Area Network means that residents have access to their own network, wherever they are in the building, such as the gym or lobby, creating a seamless experience for the resident.
• We are approaching an age in which a wide range of consumer products will be routinely connected to internet-enabled interfaces.
• Curve IT can also provide ongoing 24/7 IT support if required, for both the operator and residents, including warranty management.

Contact the team at Curve IT to see how we can deliver your PRS IT services and solutions.

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The multi-tenant sector is one of the hardest environments in which to deliver robust WiFi networks, with hundreds of residents living in close proximity using multiple devices, often at the same time.

Providing an IT infrastructure to support a multi-dwelling unit (MDU) requires a deep understanding of the fundamentals of WiFi technology.

The benefits of calling in Curve IT from the word go

• Curve IT are involved from RIBA stage 3 onwards.
• Curve IT consultants begin by establishing the client’s aims for the residents and the building. An early site visit enables our IT team to brainstorm with and advise PRS developers, translating concepts into a tech spec which can be incorporated before construction even begins.
• Using the most technologically advanced industry tools and techniques available, Curve IT will carry out a site survey across your premises, determining where there is most demand and identifying ‘dead spots’.
• We provide comprehensive recommendations to create a secure, successful and fully scalable WiFi network.
• Curve IT recommends a converged network, which is more efficient than multiple networks. The hardware cabling design can be fitted alongside other services rather than being retrospectively installed and the use of multiple communication modes on a single network offers a convenience and flexibility that is not possible with separate infrastructures. (By using a converged network, we save on cabling too.)
• An optimised WiFi network throughout a building based on WiFi modelling means there is no over-scoping, reducing hardware and installation capex.
• Advanced techniques such as Personal Area Networks (PAN) ensure the best experience for residents, including access to the IoT.
• Additional services can be incorporated such as VoIP, CCTV, Security systems, door control and more.

High-capacity, reliable, secure broadband and WiFi for MDUs & PRS Broadband

Curve IT has the latest on-trend information about the IT systems which best benefit clients, actively seeking out systems that will save money and reduce carbon footprint. We help clients confidently address technology-related decisions such as speed of access and cabling, recommending enterprise grade equipment within a client’s budget to ensure a great feature set and good warranty level for equipment.

Early planning of IT infrastructure, networks and PRS Broadband before the building construction begins reduces time-consuming and expensive retrospective IT installation in the construction schedule – and prevents expensive variations in construction; we dovetail our installation into the other service installation schedules.

It also means Curve IT can adhere to and enhance demanding brand standards including:

• Security controls within the building for residents to feel safe;
• Minimum setting for the WiFi signal wherever a resident may be within the building;
• A minimum number of wired ports within an apartment in the optimum locations;
• A WiFi portal for residents that is user friendly and offers services, and further revenue opportunities;
• Home-style technology delivered to enterprise standard within an MDU which feels individual to the resident but utilised by numerous tenants;
• High speed Internet supply optimized for 5Ghz.

The post Creating an intelligent IT infrastructure for PRS Broadband appeared first on Curve IT.

The Build to Rent Forum London is the go-to event for the burgeoning Build To Rent (BTR) sector, and is supported by the Greater London Authority and the Mayor of London.

Curve IT is delighted to be a Conference Associate sponsor of this event, based on our experience of providing wired and wireless network solutions within the BTR sector.

IT Strategy Planning

Curve IT are the current providers to several very high-profile BTR developments in London, with more in the pipeline. Highly experienced in working with developers and operators to define the technology brand standard, Curve IT also consults on the final design to ensure that standards are met in the most effective and efficient way.

This can include all services that sit on the converged network, such as VoIP, CCTV, security services, door control and more.

IT Project Management

After installation of these services the Curve IT support team will manage the ongoing services for the operator and residents, if required.

Build to Rent Forum 2018 is an authoritative one-day event that brings together private and public sector leaders and key stakeholders to debate and exchange ideas in a series of keynotes, case studies, debates and panel sessions.

The event takes place on Thursday February 22 at etc. venues, 155 Bishopsgate Conference Centre, London EC2M 3YD. (Pre-registration is required and there may be fees.)

For more information on Build to Rent Forum London 2018 please visit www.buildtorentforum.co.uk A list of events at the conference can be found here.

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“Although I’ve had plenty of experience in wireless deployments, it’s important that as a Ruckus Big Dog partner, Curve IT holds the official certification for  Zone Director deployments,” says Mark.  “It’s always good practice to update your knowledge around the latest Ruckus products and interesting to learn about system developments.”

Ruckus WiSE Certification Test

WiSE is Ruckus’ top-level certification. It ensures that certificate holders have the necessary skills to design, deploy, manage, and support robust wireless networks consisting of a range of Ruckus smart WiFi products, including ZoneDirector controllers and Access Points.

Key aspects of the course covered:

• Describe the ZoneFlex WLAN system
• Compare the ZoneDirector and ZoneFlex AP hardware models
• Install a ZoneDirector controller
• Configure a ZoneFlex WLAN system to support
• WLAN service options
• User authentication options
• System administration options
• WLAN security options
• Captive portal services
• Wireless mesh networking
• Redundancy options for the ZoneDirector controllers
• Describe the network topology options for the ZoneFlex WLAN system
• Troubleshoot WLAN connectivity and performance issue

The post Ruckus WiSE certification for Mark Adams appeared first on Curve IT.

If ever there was any doubt about the importance of providing “always on WiFi” a new report reveals just how much it impacts the daily lives of professionals worldwide.

Global mobile connectivity provider iPass Inc. (ipass.com) recently released its annual iPass Mobile Professional Report 2017.

The research focuses on the connectivity and smartphone habits of more than 1,700 mobile professionals worldwide and their connectivity preferences.

Their findings underline those of Curve IT: that people are dependent on WiFi both in their business and personal lives – and now so reliant on smartphones that they will do almost anything – including break social etiquette – to use them.

“Technology, and particularly smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, that there’s no scenario in which people won’t check their phone,” said iPass chief commercial officer Patricia Hume. “Moreover, they expect to be connected to WiFi; mobile workers just want to be connected.”

WiFi empowers a productive workforce

WiFi’s importance to productivity is the biggest reason why mobile workers feel so lost without it. Of those respondents who said they felt anxious without it, 31% said it was because they would find it more difficult to work remotely.

The report shows that mobile professionals use WiFi and cellular data very differently. Whether due to mobile performance issues, data restrictions, or reliability, it is still the dominant force in connectivity, particularly for data-intensive tasks such as video conferencing. 90% of mobile professionals say that they regularly stream audio/video content over WiFi, vs. just 34 % who do so over a cellular connection. Even lower-bandwidth internet tasks such as accessing cloud services and browsing the internet were roughly twice as popular over WiFi.

WiFi is still unmatched in terms of its performance and reliability, and employers have a duty to ensure their mobile workforce can connect easily and securely, wherever they are. (The financial cost of unproductive and unhappy employees can be severe, and no business can afford to neglect the connectivity needs of an ever more mobile workforce.)

Alongside the ever-growing demand for wireless connectivity on mobile devices is the need for a reliable and solid infrastructure, and this is where Curve IT can help.

After a site survey we provide comprehensive recommendations to ensure that all businesses and multi-tenant residential buildings have a secure, robust and fully scalable WiFi network. Curve IT is an official partner of Ruckus – the world’s leading WiFi manufacturer and innovator.

Written by Catherine Eade

Call us on 01273 806220 or email us to find out how we can help you.

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London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced his vision for London to become the world’s leading ‘Smart City’ at London Tech Week last month, outlining his ambition for digital technology to be at the heart of living and working in the capital.

“New technologies are…reshaping our societies, our economies and our culture,” said Khan, who called on technology companies to get more involved with solutions for a number of issues facing Londoners – including housing.

Curve IT is proud to be at the forefront of a number of exciting new technological developments in the residential housing sector.

New Breed of High-Tech Residential Developments

• Vast technological change is happening at breakneck pace, and high-speed digital connectivity is fundamental to a new breed of vibrant residential developments aimed at the private rental sector.
• Curve IT’s involvement with premium developer Essential Living recently resulted in the opening of flagship rental block Dressage Court – a testament to technological advances within the private rental sector.
• High speed broadband connectivity – “the fourth utility” – is a deciding factor for anyone wanting to rent or buy new property, and the government has also pledged the technology for all new build properties in the UK.
• Residential development companies such as Be and Quintain are also developing incredibly high-spec apartments and houses for the private sector.

A High-Speed Network for Everyone

At Dressage Court, Curve IT delivered the hardware and software to ensure each resident has their own personal high-speed network the minute they walk into the building.

WiFi connectivity follows them wherever they are in their block, whether they’re popping upstairs to sunbathe on the communal roof terrace or logging onto a fitness app in the gym.

“It’s crucial that an IT Infrastructure is able to respond to the inevitable changes in technology throughout the lifespan of the building, so we ensure optimal wireless network design,” explains Curve IT managing director Simon O’Hare.

“Using the RIBA Plan of Work methodology, our early involvement in the planning stage saves considerable capital expenditure later in the build, and ensures optimal wireless network design.”

Service-Focused, High-Tech Homes and Apartments

• The offer of a high quality, modern ‘simpler’ lifestyle is driving interest in the private rental sector.
• The digital, connected future is one of the main guiding principles of the design.
• Homes and apartments are designed to be service-focused, network-connected 24/7, and future proof.
• The number of smart living developments in the private rental sector is booming.
• By 2021 one in four people will be renting, according to new research.
• The sector is forecast to grow 24% by 2021.

With ‘smart technology’ gradually becoming accepted as a part and parcel of everyday living, the concept of a smart city is closer than you might think!

To discuss your IT Infrastructure project, call our consultants on 01273 806220 or email us.

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