The research demonstrated that although British companies are increasingly aware of the benefits offered by wireless connectivity in the workplace, concerns about security and poor performance continue to hold back WLAN (wireless local area network) adoption for many firms.
The survey found that 43 per cent of companies who have so far resisted wireless adoption in the workplace have done so because they are concerned about how to ensure the wireless network’s security. A further 29 per cent are delaying implementation because they perceive WLANs to be slower or less reliable than traditional wired networks.
Wireless technology can be highly effective in giving firms a competitive advantage over their peers through increased productivity. Access to a wireless network enables increased productivity via remote working and offers businesses more efficient use of resources and infrastructure without sizeable installation costs. These benefits are clearly being felt by business who have already made the transition to wireless with almost two thirds (63%) of those already using the technology saying they intended to increase investment in their wireless network in the future.
Ian Schenkel, MD EMEA at AirMagnet comments: “The research demonstrates that although many companies have already moved to a combination of wired and wireless networks in the office to increase employee productivity, incorrect preconceptions are continuing to hold many more back. This means that most are still missing out on the increased productivity, mobility and convenience delivered by wireless networks.”
Schenkel continues: “The security concerns expressed by respondents are easily addressable using a variety of different methods. For example, point monitoring using a mobile device or laptop solution allows users to identify isolated risks. Ad hoc or continuous monitoring with an enterprise level tool which alerts users to any potential threats or security weaknesses, in some cases proactively scanning the network for potential issues, adds a further level of security to protect users.”
“The perception that wireless networks are less reliable than their wired counterparts seems to linger on but this does not have to be the case. In order to ensure coverage and reliable performance as well as fast speeds users simply need to plan ahead. Today’s WiFi survey tools are able to analyse sites, locating the best position for access points and avoiding interference such as glass, lift shafts and metal doors prior to implementation. In the case of an installed network, a survey tool can offer a clear understanding of potential obstructions and where extra access points could be of use in the future –avoiding the concerns identified by respondents.”