As tenant expectations continue to soar, multi-dwelling unit (MDU) owners and managers must meet the growing demands of the market. This requires the best product from Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Managed Service Providers (MSPs), and vendors to succeed and win competitive bids. This article explains how RUCKUS One^®, utilizing RUCKUS DPSK3 and RUCKUS AI, stands out as the all-in-one network solution for MDU environments. It offers a unified platform that meets all the needs of a Managed Service Provider (MSP) to deliver a Managed Wi-Fi Solution across all bands, including 6 GHz. The article showcases the ability to integrate various network components and support complex network requirements using best-in-class Wi-Fi at an affordable price per door.

Wi-Fi as the “Fourth Utility”

Internet connectivity through Wi-Fi has become the “fourth utility.” Reliable internet access is now as essential to daily life as traditional utilities like electricity, water, and gas. This is perhaps the main reason why Real Estate Developers have chosen the pre-installed nature of “Managed Wi-Fi solutions” using Network Segmentation over the conventional physical residential gateway per unit, where each resident or tenant must wait for the next available truck roll, which can sometimes take weeks. People today want and expect reliable, high-performance Internet connectivity ready on Day One.

What is the Managed Wi-Fi Solution?

Managed Wi-Fi in a multi-dwelling units (MDU) property typically involves a Managed Service Provider (MSP) overseeing the deployment and operation of Wi-Fi services, with costs included in the association fees paid by unit owners or tenants’ rent. The provider strategically plans and installs access points for optimal coverage, based on a comprehensive professional design, reducing interference and ensuring consistent Wi-Fi access throughout the complex. This reliable infrastructure not only attracts and retains tenants but also supports ‘Smart Home’ solutions and enhances facility management efficiencies, offering tangible business benefits.

Benefits of reliable, high-performance managed Wi-Fi across the property for MDUs

• Differentiate properties in a competitive market by appealing to tech-savvy residents who demand fast Wi-Fi service everywhere.
• Boost tenant renewals, as satisfied tenants are more likely to renew their leases.
• Provide new wireless Smart Home and business services, including IoT applications like keyless entry, sensors, employee and asset location, analytics, and more.
• Enhance technology capabilities without hassle through centrally managed Wi-Fi services delivered by wireless experts who can proactively prevent problems.
• Simplify wireless service management with multiple control options available in the cloud or on-premises.
• Attract future tenants more effectively, as guests experiencing excellent Wi-Fi are more likely to consider the property for their next home.

Managed Wi-Fi solutions often leverage network segmentation to enhance security, performance, and management efficiency.

What is Network Segmentation?

Network segmentation entails breaking down a network into smaller subnetworks, effectively isolating users’ end devices from each other to improve IT security and user experience. Devices are placed into separate virtual networks, preventing threats to enter the network from moving laterally across segments to other devices. This approach is particularly effective for MDU, such as apartment buildings, college dormitories, senior living facilities, or anywhere residents live communally. The cornerstone of Wi-Fi network segmentation is per-user/per-device PSKs.

What is per-user/per-device PSKs?

Per-user/per-device PSKs (Pre-Shared Keys) are proprietary PSKs solutions, designed to address the vulnerabilities associated with traditional PSK authentication, particularly in environments like MDU. The primary concern with using a single PSK for all devices on a WLAN is the vulnerability to social engineering. If the PSK is shared, whether inadvertently or deliberately, with unauthorized individuals, it jeopardizes the security of the entire WLAN.

Per-user/per-device PSKs offer a solution by assigning a unique PSK to each device or user. This means that each device uses its own unique PSK for connecting to the WLAN, and the MAC address or multiple MAC addresses (due to MAC randomization) of each device are mapped to a unique personal passphrase. These individual PSKs can be created dynamically or manually and are tied to a single SSID. This approach provides unique identity credentials for each device while keeping the simplicity of using a single SSID, enhancing security by isolating each device’s access credentials.

Benefits of the per-user per-device PSKs

• Enhance security by preventing decryption of unicast traffic
• Eliminates the management burden when a passphrase must be changed due to an individual leaving the Property/Company
• Allows granular, user-specific control of network privileges.
• Provide enhanced accounting functionality.
• Transparent for the client devices, acting as a regular PSK network on their side

The RUCKUS patented per-user per-device PSK Solution: Dynamic PSK^™

Dynamic PSK is a CommScope-patented technology that enhances network security by providing unique encryption keys for each user or device connecting to the RUCKUS network. Users can obtain their unique Wi-Fi passwords either through self-service or from an IT administrator, making the connection process intuitive and like home network setups. Unlike conventional PSKs, the Dynamic PSK solution allows administrators to define access policies and revoke access for individual users without affecting others. Wireless traffic is encrypted using WPA2^™-Personal or WPA3^™-SAE, optimizing a robust network and data security. The Dynamic PSK solution is a key part for RUCKUS Network Segmentation.

Breaking Barriers: The RUCKUS Innovation for 6 GHz WPA3 Challenges

When the 6 GHz band was opened for unlicensed use in April 2020, the Wi-Fi Alliance mandated Wi-Fi Protected Access^® 3 (WPA3) and Opportunistic Wireless Encryption (OWE) as the standards for Wi-Fi security for all Wi-Fi 6E devices and any future devices using the greenfield 6 GHz band. This posed a challenge for per-user, per-device PSKs implementations, as WPA3-SAE inherently prevents the use of multiple keys, eliminating the possibility of reverse-engineering the passphrase used in traditional Dynamic PSK and other vendor solutions.

However, there’s no need to be disheartened. Initially, there was no per-user per-device PSK solution for 6 GHz (WPA3-SAE mandatory), but in early 2023, RUCKUS introduced a groundbreaking innovation. The magic unfolds as the “RUCKUS Team” turns the impossible dream into reality with per-user, per-device PSKs on the 6 GHz band. After rigorous testing by the Development and Quality Assurance Teams, RUCKUS released the patented “Dynamic SAE (DSAE) or DPSK3.” This innovation made per-user, per-device PSKs possible in the 6 GHz band using WPA3-SAE, positioning RUCKUS as the first vendor in the industry to offer a multiple password solution on the new 6 GHz band without RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service). RUCKUS DPSK3 extends the successful Dynamic PSK technology to support WPA3, delivering all the benefits of the Dynamic PSK solution while keeping robust WPA3 security.

Key Advantages of Network Segmentation through DPSK3

• 6 GHz Band Compatible: The 6 GHz frequency addition marks the largest expansion of Wi-Fi spectrum ever, with 59 more channels, enabling a dramatic increase in bandwidth and reduction of latency. DPSK3 is fully compatible with the 6 GHz band.
• RUCKUS One Single Network Platform: Deploying DPSK3 within the RUCKUS One solution, alongside Property Management/Residential Portal, Identity Groups, and Adaptive Policy features, eliminates the need for third-party captive portals or advanced gateways. This makes DPSK3 in the RUCKUS One solution an affordable, optimal, and feature-rich solution for MDU, Higher Education Dorms, Hospitality, and other verticals.
• Clean Radio Frequency (RF) Air Space: A single SSID deployment throughout the property, using RUCKUS One AI RRM (Radio Resource Management through Artificial Intelligence), minimizes Co-Channel Interference (CCI), known as “the Wi-Fi Killer”. This creates a cleaner RF environment compared to the conventional “one standalone Wi-Fi router per unit” setup, where frequency coordination is impossible, substantially increasing CCI.
• Universal Coverage Throughout the Property: Residents/Tenants can access their private LAN using the same SSID from anywhere, in their unit, the Common Areas or any other space covered by the Wi-Fi Signal. Basically, their own private LAN follows them around the property, creating a ubiquitous network connection.
• Enhanced Network Security: By segmenting the network, any malware or breach in one segment of the network can be contained to that smaller network segment, making it more difficult to spread horizontally throughout the entire network. In the animation below the malware is confined to the specific microsegment/VLAN, affecting only one customer, and preventing horizontal propagation to other network segments.

• Defeats MAC Randomization (Private MAC Address): With RUCKUS Dynamic PSK and DPSK3 solutions, segmentation is achieved through the uniqueness of the password, independent of the MAC address. This means that even if a device uses multiple randomized MAC addresses, it will consistently use the same password. As a result, all those MAC addresses will be added to its private LAN, enabling seamless connectivity and optimizing security.
• Property Management can revoke access at any time without impacting others: Conventional PSKs involve shared Wi-Fi passwords, making it challenging to revoke access for an individual without affecting everyone else. In contrast, with RUCKUS Dynamic PSK and DPSK3 solutions, access can be individually managed. If a resident sells their unit or a tenant’s lease expires, access can be revoked through the Resident Portal or by Property Management. Additionally, Customer Service, the Network Operation Center (NOC) for ISPs, or any Network Administrator with proper privileges can manage access rights effectively.
• Private Network for each Tenant: The benefits of this Private LAN architecture include:
  • All devices belonging to a single tenant can communicate with each other, while preventing access to other tenants’ devices.
  • Residents or tenants can only view their own traffic when using packet sniffers like tcpdump or Wireshark, ensuring they cannot intercept others’ traffic.
  • Congestion is reduced by limiting unnecessary traffic flow between segments.
• Unique Public IP per Tenant: Each private network can be linked to a unique public IP address, granting tenants control over their inbound and outbound connectivity, benefits include:
  • The unique public address typically helps Service Providers comply with CALEA (Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act) non-repudiation requirements, enabling the origin and the integrity of data to be verified.
  • Devices that rely on Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), such as game consoles, can function properly without any effort from the tenant or operator.
  • Applications that depend on broadcast and multicast-based protocols, such as multicast Domain Name System (mDNS), function properly.

Network Segmentation with DPSK3 Proof of Concept (POC) for a Partner

The purpose of this POC Lab was to deliver a “Single Pane of Glass” Managed Wi-Fi Solution on 6 GHz to a long-standing ISP/MDU Partner. This partner successfully implemented Network Segmentation using the RUCKUS Dynamic PSK solution across multiple properties, including MDUs, hotels, and university environments. However, as mentioned, with the introduction of 6 GHz and the requirement for WPA3, the Dynamic PSK solution was challenged, but the RUCKUS Team embraced this challenge and developed the DPSK3 solution.

Now, the partner’s requirements were not just about network security, they also needed an affordable and easy to deploy solution. Typically, with most vendors, achieving all three is difficult, often resulting in a compromise of one or two of the three. To provide a Wi-Fi network that is both reasonably secure and easy to deploy, customers often need to invest in expensive advanced gateways and/or costly RADIUS servers, increasing CapEx and reducing competitiveness. Alternatively, opting for a cheaper solution typically compromises security and performance. However, the RUCKUS solution offers partners all three benefits: security, affordability, and ease of deployment, along with RUCKUS’s unmatched RF performance. Configuration can be automated using the template capabilities built into the RUCKUS One solution, facilitating “cookie-cutter” future deployments.

Requirement added per Partner Feature Request

In addition to the above requirements, the partner, being an ISP, needed different Bandwidth Service Tier levels per user, such as:

1. Bulk Service: Bandwidth Down = 100 Mbps, Bandwidth Up = 100 Mbps
2. Silver Service: Bandwidth Down = 500 Mbps, Bandwidth Up = 500 Mbps
3. Gold Service: Bandwidth Down = 1000 Mbps, Bandwidth Up = 1000 Mbps

The RUCKUS Engineering and Development Team returned to the drawing board and undertook significant coding efforts to provide the Partner with the requested Rate Limiting option. At that point, the RUCKUS One solution became the single, cloud-based platform to manage all network components across all properties; enabling the partner to monitor, configure, and optimize networks remotely using the following features:

Main RUCKUS One Solution Features

Centralized and Automated Management

The RUCKUS One solution provides a single, unified platform for managing both wired and wireless networks, with automation tools for configuration, updates, and monitoring to enhance efficiency and reduce manual workload.

AI-Driven Analytics and Security

The platform leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for real-time network analytics, predictive maintenance, and robust security features, including intrusion detection and automated updates, to proactively manage and secure network performance.

Scalability and Remote Capabilities

Designed to scale with organizational growth, the RUCKUS One solution supports remote monitoring and management, allowing for efficient network optimization and bandwidth management across all properties.

Specific RUCKUS One Solution Features

Network Segmentation through DPSK3 Service on 6 GHz

The animation below illustrates the customer’s mobile phone in UNIT 104, initially connected on 6 GHz within their unit, roaming to different APs and bands, eventually reaching the pool area and going back to 6 GHz. Throughout this process, the device remains connected to its own private VLAN704. (Note: Hopefully, the phone is indeed water-resistant—just a lighthearted remark!)

Property Management

Enables the creation of an unlimited number of units for the MDU. For example, the system can accommodate a property with 500 units/ identities.

Residential Portal

The RUCKUS Resident Portal feature provides a user-friendly interface for managing network access in MDU. It allows property managers to create and manage multiple units, offering residents seamless connectivity and secure access to the network. The portal supports self-service options for residents to obtain, change/reset unique Wi-Fi credentials and control devices connected to their private network.

Adaptive Policy

Rate Limiting based on RADIUS Attributes for the different Tiers Services (Bulk: 100×100, Silver 500×500, Gold:1000×1000).

“Matrix Like” Role Base Access Control (RBAC) for their different management Tiers

NOC, Engineering and others

Wi-Fi Calling

Facilitates cell phone calling in areas with low or no cellular signal.

Hotspot 2.0

This feature was a requirement from the MDU developers, enabling their users to automatically connect to Wi-Fi across multiple properties and roam seamlessly through OpenRoaming^™.

The All-in-One Solution for MDU Network Management: RUCKUS One

RUCKUS DPSK3, when deployed within the RUCKUS One solution, emerges as the most versatile and comprehensive solution for MDU environments. It provides a single platform that fulfills all the requirements a Managed Service Provider (MSP) needs to offer a Managed Wi-Fi Solution on all bands, including 6 GHz. All the features discussed in this publication are integrated into the RUCKUS One solution, serving as a single pane of glass to monitor, manage, and control Access Points, Switches, RUCKUS Edge^™, Property Units, Residential Portals, and Policies for Rate Limiting, Service Scheduling, and more. Additionally, it offers RUCKUS AI RRM, Analytics, and Reports, with upcoming support for features like PON (Passive Optical Networks) management and IoT integration.

© 2025 CommScope, LLC.  All rights reserved.  CommScope and the CommScope logo are registered trademarks of CommScope and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries.  For additional trademark information see https://www.commscope.com/trademarks.  Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi 6E, WPA2, WPA3 and Wi-Fi Protected Access are trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance. OpenRoaming is a trademark of the Wireless Broadband Alliance. All product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. 

GoZone WiFi and Qfactor Airport Advertising partner to transform airport ads with Ads4WiFi, boosting ad revenues and offering seamless Wi-Fi user engagement.

ST. PETERSBURG, FL, UNITED STATES, March 18, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — St. Petersburg, FL and Greenville, WI – March 18, 2025 – GoZone WiFi, the leading provider of Wi-Fi marketing solutions, and Qfactor Airport Advertising, a premier airport advertising company, are excited to announce a strategic partnership aimed at transforming the airport advertising landscape. This collaboration will enable airports to drive additional ad revenues through the innovative Ads4WiFi marketplace, powered by GoZone.

The Ads4WiFi marketplace offers advertisers a seamless way to reach engaged Wi-Fi users as they navigate through airports. Historically, the Wi-Fi advertising space has been fragmented and fraught with technical challenges. However, GoZone’s extensive integrations with over 40 different types of Wi-Fi hardware eliminate the need for airports to invest in additional hardware or software. This integration ensures a smooth and efficient implementation process, allowing airport IT teams to focus on maintaining optimal network performance.

Todd Myers, CEO of GoZone WiFi, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This is a great way for Qfactor to offer a value-added revenue stream in addition to their other in-terminal advertising channels. Our collaboration will provide advertisers with a unique opportunity to connect with travelers in a highly targeted and impactful manner.”

Kim Sippola, President of Qfactor Airport Advertising, added, “Partnering with GoZone allows us to enhance our digital advertising offerings and provide airports with a cutting-edge solution to maximize their ad revenues. We are thrilled to bring this innovative platform to our clients and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on airport advertising.”

By leveraging the Ads4WiFi marketplace, airports can now offer advertisers a powerful platform to showcase their brands to a captive audience of Wi-Fi users. This partnership marks a significant step forward in the evolution of airport advertising, providing a streamlined and effective solution for both advertisers and airports alike.

For more information about the Ads4WiFi marketplace and the partnership between GoZone and Qfactor Airport Advertising, please visit www.ads4wifi.com/venues/airports.

Wi-Fi 7 offers a wealth of new services opportunities that go beyond the routine wireless upgrade. Recently, I assisted a local school, where my children attend, as they embarked on a wireless network refresh initiative. As the first school in the Catholic Diocese to upgrade, they sought to replace their outdated patchwork of Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5 devices from various manufacturers; this inconsistency in design, performance, and management, is particularly common in various sectors like education, retail, and healthcare, and perhaps an overall pervasive problem with aging infrastructure that pre-dates Wi-Fi 6/6E and earlier installations.

The school’s primary goal was straightforward, to establish a secure, reliable, and easy to manage network infrastructure capable of supporting current and future demands. To achieve this, they invited proposals from various local IT providers, including resellers and Managed Service Providers (MSPs). As a Solutions Engineer in the IT industry working for Cisco Systems, I found it intriguing that all the solution proposals from the various vendors still centered around Wi-Fi 6E and older Wi-Fi 6 products — some of which would likely be announced soon for End-of-Life (EOL) or End-of-Sale (EOS)!

With Wi-Fi 7 entering its main adoption phase, I encouraged the school to look beyond Wi-Fi 6/6E. It became clear that information regarding Wi-Fi 7 was still trickling through the reseller and partner channels, and most were not well versed on the newer Wi-Fi 7 solutions. This prompted me to compile a summary of Cisco’s Wi-Fi 7 portfolio to highlight its transformative opportunities for end customers, resellers, and MSPs alike.

Focusing on the Key Takeaways regarding Cisco Wi-Fi 7

Cisco unveiled a comprehensive suite of Wi-Fi 7 products in November 2024 and followed up with additional product announcements in February 2025.

Key takeaways on Cisco’s Wi-Fi 7 product portfolio:

• Product Portfolio: Cisco introduced a wide array of Wi-Fi 7 products, from more entry-level Access Points (APs) to high-capacity, high-throughput models. These APs are ideal for supporting demanding applications such as High-Definition Video Streaming, Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Immersive Gaming and Entertainment, and help build an infrastructure that optimizes the adoption of various AI-related use cases.
  • CW9176 – Enterprise Class, High Density, High Performance, Omni-directional, Indoor AP, with single 10 mGig capable port, suitable for offices, conventional buildings, etc.
  • CW9176D – Enterprise Class, High Density, High Performance, Indoor AP with Directional Antenna, suitable for auditoriums, warehouses, long aisles/corridors, and/or areas with high ceilings.
  • CW9178 – Mission Critical, Ultra High Density, High Performance, Omni-directional, Indoor AP, with dual 10 mGig capable ports that can operate in active/active for higher throughput or active/passive to achieve high availability/redundancy purposes.

• • CW9172 – Moderate Density, Omni-directional, Indoor AP, ideal for retail, clinics, branch offices, or Multi Dwelling Units (MDUs) deployments like hotels, student housing, apartments, condominiums, etc.

• Unified Hardware: Cisco Wi-Fi 7 products now feature a single Product ID (PID) per model, greatly simplifying the quoting and ordering process. There are no longer different PIDs/SKUs based on regulatory domains or operation modes. All Cisco Wi-Fi 7 based APs are designed for global use and can detect and operate in either Meraki Dashboard or Catalyst (WLC) management mode automatically. Users can also switch between management modes without needing to contact technical support. These Global Use Access Points offer efficient, smart, and scalable operations with comprehensive connectivity capabilities that include Bluetooth, IoT, and geolocation capabilities.
• Unified Licensing: Cisco Wi-Fi 7 APs offer a streamlined experience with unified licensing, supporting all management modes with a single license. Available in two tiers—essentials and advantage—this system simplifies the ordering process. Essentials licensing provides fundamental network operation features, while Advantage licensing advanced functionality enabled through the inclusion of Cisco Spaces Advantage. This unified licensing approach enables customers to deploy networks using the same hardware across cloud, on-premises, or hybrid environments. Additionally, the Cisco Networking Subscription includes comprehensive product support, addressing both hardware and software aspects.
• Power: With the exception of the CW9172I model, which supports DC input as an option, all Cisco Wi-Fi 7 based APs utilize Power Over Ethernet (PoE) as the power source. While these APs require at least 802.3at/PoE+ to function, they ideally need 802.3bt/PoE++/UPoE to enable full AP functionality.
• Ethernet Cabling Requirements: While existing Category 5e cabling can be re-used, it comes with limitations. To fully harness the throughput capabilities of the Wi-Fi 7 APs, Category 6/6A or better Ethernet cabling is recommended. Category 5e cabling supports a maximum throughput of 1 Gb up to 100 meters. In contrast, Category 6 cabling can potentially support up to 10 GbE, but only up to ~50 meters. For 10 GbE support over the full 100-meter distance, Category 6A or better cabling is required.

Opportunities that Wi-Fi 7 Brings for MSPs/Partners

Proposing a managed wireless service built around Wi-Fi 7 technology for an MSP can be compelling for several reasons:

• Cutting-Edge Technology: Wi-Fi 7 represents the latest advancement in wireless technology, offering higher transmission rates, lower latency, and enhanced reliability. By providing a service based on Wi-Fi 7, MSPs can position themselves as leaders in offering state-of-the-art solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers. By adopting Wi-Fi 7, MSPs help their customers future-proof their networks, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
• Increased Demand for High-Performance Connectivity: With the growing reliance on bandwidth-intensive applications such as video collaboration, augmented reality, and IoT, customers are seeking faster and more reliable connectivity. Wi-Fi 7 enables these high-performance applications, making managed Wi-Fi services more attractive to organizations looking to upgrade their infrastructure.
• Consulting and Deployment: As customers transition to Wi-Fi 7, MSPs have the opportunity for additional revenue streams by offering consulting, deployment, and ongoing monitoring and management services. This includes network design, installation, maintenance, and optimization services. MSPs can also provide consulting services to assist businesses in planning and implementing the transition to this new technology, as well as integrating it with related infrastructure.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: This includes upgrading Ethernet cabling, as well as the network switching infrastructure to support the higher throughputs, as well as the PoE/power requirements of the APs.  MSPs can also provide more advanced monitoring/automation capabilities or provide additional services that ensure the clients’ infrastructure can support the demands required from modern use cases.
• Comprehensive Service Offering: By leveraging Cisco’s Wi-Fi 7 portfolio, MSPs have the right building blocks to create a powerful and differentiated services offering. Bundling Wi-Fi 7 with value-added services such as advanced security features, AI-enhanced management tools, and in-depth analytics can significantly enhance a business’s network performance and security, providing a clear competitive edge.  Consider these compelling services add-on examples:
  • Assurance and Monitoring Services: Integrate solutions like ThousandEyes to offer clients unparalleled visibility into their network performance. This enables quick identification and resolution of issues, greatly improving the overall user experience and ensuring maximum operational efficiency.
  • Enhanced Security Services: Utilize Wi-Fi 7’s cutting-edge capabilities to integrate sophisticated security solutions. MSPs can deliver additional security services, including real-time threat detection and response, alongside proactive network monitoring. This not only protects client environments from evolving cyber threats but also reinforces trust in MSPs as security partners.
• Scalability and Flexibility: Wi-Fi 7’s ability to support a higher density of devices and more complex environments makes it ideal for scalable solutions. MSPs can offer flexible managed services that grow with their clients’ needs, from small businesses to large enterprises.
• Support for New Business Applications: Wi-Fi 7 enables new business applications and services, providing MSPs with opportunities to develop and support innovative solutions tailored to specific industry needs.  MSPs can offer tailored solutions that support new use cases, including IoT, video collaboration, and/or augmented reality.
• Comprehensive Wireless/Wi-Fi Management: The demand for integrated Wi-Fi systems that include AI-enhanced automation and analytics creates an opportunity for MSPs to offer comprehensive management services that optimize wireless connectivity and improved user experiences.

By adopting managed wireless networking services centered on Wi-Fi 7 technology, MSPs are well-equipped to meet the growing demand for advanced wireless solutions, thereby enriching their service offerings and driving business growth.

In the context of my story, the school took the guidance to heart and conducted a thorough evaluation of their options. Recognizing the transformative potential of leveraging cutting-edge technology, they concluded that a Cisco-based Wi-Fi 7 deployment simply made more sense. This choice not only fulfilled their goals of establishing a secure, reliable, and easy-to-operate network, but also emerged as the more practical and overall, more cost-effective solution for the long run. The solution provided an excellent balance between current needs with future scalability, ensuring longevity from their investments.

By adopting this more forward-thinking strategy, the school positioned itself at the forefront of technological advancement, setting an example for other schools in the district. Their approach serves as a reference, illustrating the benefits of embracing new technology to enhance educational environments. This move ensures they not only meet the current demands of digital learning but also lead the way in setting new standards for educational connectivity.

Register for the upcoming Managed Services Voice of the Engineer session to learn more about Cisco’s innovative Wi-Fi 7 portfolio

ANAHEIM, CA, UNITED STATES, (February 24, 2025) Zyxel Networks, a leader in delivering secure and AI-powered cloud networking solutions, has announced the appointment of Ken Tsai as the new President of Zyxel Networks, effective February 2025.

Since its spin-off from Zyxel Communications in 2019, Zyxel Networks has focused on the small to medium-sized business (SMB) networking market, successfully building a strong market position through its Nebula cloud management platform alongside network security solutions. Ken Tsai’s leadership is expected to bring forward-thinking strategies and market insights that will fuel the company’s growth momentum in global markets.

“Zyxel Networks has been committed to delivering exceptional networking solutions for SMBs since day one,” said Tsai. “With the Nebula cloud management platform and security solutions, we have successfully distinguished ourselves with strong in-house R&D power in the international markets and established a robust business model. Building on this success, we are confident in our path forward. I feel a great sense of responsibility and will dedicate myself fully to leading Zyxel Networks in continued growth and innovation.”

Tsai brings 19 years of experience from the Zyxel Group, having held key positions across various strategic operations and product management units, including the Gateway Strategic Business Unit, Management Center, Corporate HR Service Division, and Business Supporting Center.

His extensive expertise in brand management, market development, and customer experience—gained through roles at global HQ and several years expatriating in European markets—positions him as a proven leader capable of guiding cross-departmental and cross-cultural teams towards achieving business goals. This experience will lay a solid foundation for Zyxel Networks’ future development.

The widespread challenges currently facing SMBs worldwide include regulatory pressures, limited resources, and recruitment difficulties, calling for more efficient operational practices and resource allocation. The increasing security attacks also underscores the urgent need for secure and reliable solutions.

Zyxel Networks’ Nebula cloud management solution is specifically designed to address these pain points by integrating wired, wireless, and security devices through a single platform that leverages cloud management and AI for analytical monitoring. This approach simplifies management processes while reducing risks associated with cyber threats, alleviating burdens on SMBs.

Zyxel Networks emphasizes that Tsai’s wealth of cross-functional collaboration experience and team trust will facilitate deeper integration within the company, enhancing its ability to seize opportunities in a rapidly evolving market. This will enable the company to keep delivering innovative solutions that meet customer demands, while supporting SMBs in overcoming challenges and driving business growth.

About Zyxel: Zyxel Networks is a leading provider of secure, AI-powered cloud networking solutions for SMBs and the enterprise-edge. We deliver seamless connectivity and flexible scalability through subscription services, all backed by robust security. With a reputation built on decades of unlocking potential and helping people adapt to the changing workplace, Zyxel Networks has earned the trust of over 1 million businesses across 150 markets.

For more information about Zyxel, its connectivity solutions, and the Zyxel Authorized Partner Program, visit www.zyxel.com/us and follow us on Facebook, X(formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn.