While the latest Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 technologies are impressive, they're only as good as their backup plans. So, how can you ensure your business stays connected no matter what? Let's break down six strategies that'll keep your network running smoothly:
Dual Connectivity for Failover
One of the most effective ways to maintain redundancy is by providing dual connectivity. This typically involves the use of both wireless (Wi-Fi 6E/Wi-Fi 7) and wired (Ethernet) networks. In the event of a wireless failure, the wired connection can automatically take over, ensuring uninterrupted service for critical business operations.
Additionally, the wireless network itself offers another layer of redundancy through multiple frequencies - 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. Your devices automatically select and switch between these frequencies based on which one provides the strongest, most reliable connection at any given moment. This multi-frequency capability helps maintain optimal wireless performance, and if wireless connectivity degrades completely, the system seamlessly switches to the wired backup to keep your business running smoothly.
Mesh Networks
Mesh networks use multiple Wi-Fi access points (called mesh nodes) that work together as a single system to blanket your entire space with consistent Wi-Fi coverage. Large organizations benefit from this setup because these nodes share the network load and create multiple paths for your data to travel. If one access point experiences problems or fails, the system automatically redirects data through other nearby nodes, ensuring your connection stays strong and reliable throughout your space.
Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 mesh networks benefit from the additional spectrum in the 6 GHz band, allowing for higher performance in dense environments.
Cloud and Edge Computing for Localized Resilience
Edge computing provides an important layer of network redundancy by enabling local data processing. If your connection to cloud services becomes unavailable, edge computing allows business-critical applications to continue functioning by processing data locally instead of relying on central servers. This distributed approach helps prevent disruptions to your essential operations.
Cloud-based monitoring and management tools can also provide real-time insights into network performance and quickly identify and address potential issues across both Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 infrastructures.
Automatic Network Failover and Load Balancing
Modern networks need two key capabilities to maintain reliable performance. First, they use automatic failover and load balancing to prevent disruptions. This means if one network path becomes overwhelmed or fails, traffic automatically redirects across other available resources, such as alternate Wi-Fi channels or different network types (like switching from Wi-Fi 6E to Wi-Fi 7 or from wireless to wired connections).
Additionally, these networks use bandwidth management tools to control how the available network capacity is used. During periods of high demand, these tools prioritize critical business applications over less important traffic.
Robust Security Measures
Security is also a key component of network redundancy. Implementing strong network security (such as WPA3 encryption) across all wireless bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) ensures the protection of sensitive data even when the network is under stress. In parallel, using VPNs and firewalls can safeguard redundant connections and prevent potential vulnerabilities from impacting the entire system.
Integration with Legacy Systems
While newer Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 provide immense advantages, organizations must still consider their legacy systems. Integrating newer Wi-Fi technologies with existing wired or Wi-Fi networks (using hybrid solutions) ensures that businesses do not experience disruptions as they transition to newer, faster standards.
Here's the thing – most businesses don't start from scratch. You probably have existing systems that need to work alongside your shiny new Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 setup. The good news? With the right hybrid solution, you can have the best of both worlds.
The Bottom Line
As businesses race to adopt cutting-edge wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, having a solid backup plan is essential.
Ready to bulletproof your wireless network?
Let's talk about how we can help you build a resilient, future-ready infrastructure that keeps your business running smoothly, no matter what comes your way. Connect with our network experts to discover how we can help secure your business's wireless future.
