Enterasys, PCM Partner on Cloud-Based WiFi

Enterasys Networks is partnering with PCM, a technology solutions provider, on a joint cloud-based wireless offering that will be available to businesses via partners.

The two companies unveiled the PCM Cloud Wireless Service, a cloud WiFi service that is based on Enterasys’ IdentiFi wireless access points (APs) and the company’s OneFabric management software. The cloud environment is hosted by partners, and will give businesses a cost-effective way to address such trends as mobility and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) practices.

Initially the Cloud Wireless Service will be offered by PCM, but according to both companies, that could expand to include other Enterasys channel partners.

“Through our partnership, we have not only eliminated the complexity associated with traditional wireless services, but also simplified deployment, reduced costs, eliminated day-to-day management and ensured 24/7 data security,” Enterasys President and CEO Chris Crowell said in a statement. “Looking ahead, we are thrilled PCM is interested in extending this offering to Enterasys’ resellers, as well as their own.”

Cloud-based WiFi services are getting a lot of attention from vendors. Aruba Networks on Oct. 1 rolled out its Aruba Central cloud-based management service, along with new APs, aimed at enterprises looking for solutions at branch sites and midsize businesses. Aruba officials said their offering included up to 10 times the WiFi connection speed of competitive offerings, and that management features in both the Aruba Central solution and new Instant APs mean that businesses can continue managing the wireless LAN even if the WAN link fails.

In addition, Cisco Systems in August unveiled the Meraki MR34, an 802.11ac wireless AP that can be deployed and managed through the cloud.

Officials with Enterasys and PCM said their goal was to take the worry and work of management out of the customers’ hands and instead give those jobs to the third-party providers.

“While many in the industry can provide hosted services, we are providing our customers with a fully managed service that eliminates the need to manage their cloud environments, a significant milestone for us and for our customers,” Stephen Moss, president of PCM’s services division, said in a statement.

With the service, customers don’t have to buy hardware or manage the infrastructure, and the networks are installed and managed by third-party experts, the companies said. In addition, businesses can scale and adapt their networks to fit their particular needs, and the WiFi network will continue to run even if the Internet connection is lost.