Newsletter Archive

• May 2012: FAQs on BYOD

• April 2012: vWLAN Technology for Mobile Communications

• March 2012: Mobility for Enhanced Productivity

• February 2012: Cloud Communications

May 2012 Newsletter

FAQs on BYOD — The Experts at Barry Answer Your Questions

We hope you’ve registered for our upcoming breakfast presentation, “How ‘Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)’ is Transforming the Workplace,” featuring national expert Chris Koeneman. We are pleased to co-host this event along with our partner, Adtran, and look forward to meeting you there!

As an introduction to the event, we also wanted to address some of the questions our experts are often asked about virtualized WLAN (vWLAN) and BYOD architecture:

What is vWLAN and why should I consider it for my company?
vWLAN is the next generation of wireless networking that offers distinct advantages over conventional wired networks. It moves your data storage from the physical to the virtual, which simplifies management tasks such as configuration and monitoring. vWLAN also connects your users around the globe and gives them a shared platform to help improve overall productivity. The architecture also delivers an unprecedented level of flexibility and scalability to accommodate additional users and software.

How can BYOD fit into my IT plan?
With BYOD, users literally choose the devices they wish to work from — be it a laptop, tablet, smart phone, or other wireless device — which lessens the learning curve that is needed when adopting new technology. BYOD increases convenience and collaboration.

What about security issues?
Security features are integrated throughout the system to help manage risk. By moving your data storage from the closet to the virtual, you are also protected in the event of an on-site disaster such as fire.

What type of investment can I expect?
An investment in vWLAN is very competitive when compared to wired networks, as the hardware requirements for physical space, power, cooling, installation and maintenance are eliminated.

Have more questions for our team? Join us at our event on May 23rd, or contact us for more information. Because when it comes to vWLAN and BYOD, we realize you may have lots of Qs!

April 2012 Newsletter

The Next Generation of Mobile Communications: vWLAN Technology

Today’s businesses depend on wireless networking to power the tablets, smartphones and other devices of a mobile workforce. While these devices are enhancing mobile communications and collaboration, they are also placing higher demands on network architecture. In some instances, the demands of extra devices, wider mobility and greater bandwidth have outpaced the capacity of conventional wireless networks. But these challenges can be overcome with a flexible, scalable, cost-effective IT solution. How is this possible? Simply by incorporating the next generation of wireless communications, the virtualized WLAN (vWLAN).

Virtualization is the next, or fourth, generation, of WLAN technology. It removes a data center’s physical controller and moves it to the virtual, all while letting enterprises maintain complete, centralized control of their data. Virtualization enables data management to run as software (such as VMware) on a hypervisor to optimize network performance and reduce capital costs. vWLAN technology offers an unprecedented degree of flexibility, scalability and cost control when compared to traditional wired networks.

At Barry, we’ve partnered with the leaders of vWLAN technology, and we can help your company evaluate if vWLAN architecture might be the right fit for your IT plan. We’ll explore the benefits of virtual, wireless control, including:

• Flexible scaling – System capacity is no longer determined by the capacity of the controller, but can be scaled on an as-needed basis.
• Integrated security – Built-in features provide faster response to security threats than traditional legacy systems
• Seamless upgrading – System can easily accommodate new users and software upgrades without concern of build-out.
• Optimized performance - Consistent traffic management and user experience across a distributed enterprise
• Lower TOC – Operational hardware costs and constraints are eliminated by moving from a physical controller to the virtual machine.

Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of vWLAN technology for your business? Contact the Barry team to learn more about upcoming information sessions.

March 2012 Newsletter

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Enterprise Mobility for Enhanced Productivity

The US has one of the largest mobile workforces in the world, with an estimated 75.5% (or nearly 120 million workers) expected to be mobile by the end of 2013. Freed from the confines of traditional wired networks, employees are now communicating and collaborating via their smartphones and tablets from virtually anywhere— a home office, remote hotel, or even the local coffee shop. Yet as more employees embrace mobile technology, businesses are challenged to build a unified mobile communications strategy. A plan that combines flexible data access with rock-solid security— and does it all without breaking the IT budget. What are some key points to consider when your enterprise is ready to deploy a mobile communications solution?

At Barry, we advise clients to closely evaluate the following:

1) Connectivity – Superior connectivity will keep everyone in touch and enhance productivity. Consider a plan that offers seamless integration from any location and on any network (voice over Wi-Fi, voice over 3G/4G or cellular). For the best coverage, address any building design or infrastructure challenges that may inhibit connectivity.

2) Security – High-trust environments call for authentication and encryption. A complete mobile strategy should leverage proven security standards, and also recognize when approved users are outside of the enterprise firewall.

3) Flexibility – A mobile UC solution should address the challenges of a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) model, which gives users their choice of communications devices. The right plan can slash BYOD support costs while integrating with corporate PBX and UC systems. Future growth needs should also be anticipated.

4) Cost - Roaming charges can wreak havoc on IT budgets. A clear path to the most economical routes can help contain mobile communication costs.

With the right plan in place, mobile unified communications can deliver your enterprise improved productivity, enhanced collaboration, and most importantly, a competitive edge.

February 2012 Newsletter

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Is Cloud Communication Right for Your Business?

What is cloud communications? Can it help my business? Is it secure? These are all common questions, without a one-size-fits-all answer.

The best description of cloud communication that we've seen was written by Jon Arnold in an article entitled "Why Businesses Need to Think Differently about Cloud Communications." Arnold writes: "Cloud communications are Internet-based voice and data communications where telecommunications applications, switching and storage are hosted by a third-party outside of the organization using them, and they are accessed over the public Internet. Cloud services is a broad term, referring primarily to data-center-hosted services that are run and accessed over an Internet infrastructure. Until recently, these services have been data-centric, but with the evolution of VoIP (voice over Internet protocol), voice has become part of the cloud phenomenon." The cloud can keep all of your remote and in-house users connected throughout your enterprise. While some embrace the cloud for its seamless data integration, others worry it could compromise security or limit accessibility. At Barry, we often recommend a hybrid of cloud-based and premise-based elements for a solution that combines the best of both worlds.

Is the cloud right for your business? Consider:

1) Data Security - 54% of respondents in a recent LinkedIn survey viewed cloud security as a top concern. Are you comfortable storing data off-premises? The right answer will depend upon the sensitivity of your data and the potential impact if a problem arises.

2) Information Access – The beauty of the cloud is that it follows you wherever you are. Users stay connected across all of their devices whether they are in the office or on the go. But system downtime is a huge concern. Be sure to ask for downtime data before signing on with a cloud services provider.

3) Account Service- From consultation to design and deployment, will you be assured of 24/7 support?

4) Overall Value - What are the productivity, service, and operational advantages of premise-based vs. outsourced hosting?

By carefully evaluating your enterprise, you can build the ideal platform to power your communications. Cloud-based, premise-based, or a hybrid — the sky is the limit.