Supporting next-generation networks in Wi-Fi 7 innovations, empowering partners with new AI tools.

More devices in more locations, greater demand for bandwidth and high-quality service (QoS), linked to higher customer expectations. This is a demanding time in the ever-evolving networking industry, but RUCKUS Networks always stays ahead of the needs of our customers and partners.

Author of the article:

Thomas Schwab – VP Worldwide Partners—RUCKUS Sales
Thomas-Schwab-RUCKUS-Vice-President-Worldwide-Channels

During my business travels, the issue of reliability – and perhaps the habit of fast connectivity – becomes more evident. As mentioned, end-user expectations have never been higher. We all expect the network to be always available, always on, and always fast, regardless of where we are. We want data to flow smoothly in the background, and our online experiences to be consistent and uninterrupted. Imagine arriving at a hotel and being unable to connect to the Internet. This is not just an inconvenience but also impacts our productivity.

Additionally, there is an increasing number of remote workers spread across various locations.

In Asia alone, 50% of employees state they can do their job from home or remotely, which also changes expectations. And, of course, it increases the need for reliable networks. To perform their duties, remote employees need – and expect – connectivity as effective as if they were directly connected to the company network.

The need for dynamic, resilient infrastructure Changes and demands lead to the need for a network that is both dynamic and resilient. I see employees entering work environments with five or even seven different devices, using dozens of applications.

The development of cloud services, video conferencing, online gaming, and immersive technology has created an insatiable appetite for bandwidth. Adding artificial intelligence and the demands it places on the network means we need infrastructure that is highly dynamic, flexible, and very resilient.

Next-generation Wi-Fi is now available Speaking of dynamism and flexibility, Wi-Fi 7 is here. Wi-Fi 7 is a significant leap from Wi-Fi 6, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and significant bandwidth improvements. In fact, Wi-Fi 7 will be much faster than Wi-Fi 6 – with the same configuration, speeds will be up to 2.4 times higher, meaning a smartphone with Wi-Fi 7 can reach up to 5 Gb/s!

This is an exciting step forward, full of possibilities. Wi-Fi 7 promises maximum theoretical speeds of up to 46 Gb/s, which for enterprises means faster file transfers, smoother collaboration on large projects like 3D design or HD video editing, and overall improved network performance. Wi-Fi 7 also increases network capacity, allowing for higher device density – it can support significantly more devices simultaneously, which is valuable for large offices, hospitals, universities, manufacturing plants, where many devices are connected at the same time.

At RUCKUS, we are proud of our work on Wi-Fi 7. We are the first manufacturer to bring a Wi-Fi 7 access point to market, quickly adopted into the test base by the Wi-Fi Alliance. This means all other Wi-Fi 7 access points entering the market are tested against the standard to which RUCKUS has made a key contribution.

Empowering our partners, achieving success together RUCKUS Networks is not just a company focused on the partner channel – it is an exclusively channel-focused company. Everything we do is for our partners and about them. For us, success only exists when our partners succeed.

We also understand that our partners’ customers expect not just professional services – they want a partner for the long term, for the entire project lifecycle and beyond. With this in mind, we have implemented new tools such as RUCKUS AI, which continuously analyzes the network to proactively identify incidents before they become major problems. This enables us to provide recommendations for resolving issues in advance.

It is this approach that influenced our new partner program for 2024, called RUCKUS Big Dogs. This enhanced program is designed to keep RUCKUS top of mind for our partners at all times. And not just because we have market-leading solutions and the best teams, but also because we continuously focus on fully equipping and supporting our partners with everything they need to enter the market.

Recently, I was asked about the three priorities RUCKUS Networks focuses on regarding partners in a world of rapidly developing networks and constantly changing end-user expectations. First, I would say that whatever we do must be relevant. Our new partner program must be appropriate for the challenges and needs of our partners and support them in going to market and meeting their customers’ expectations.

Second, support. Our partners are constantly expanding into new industries and expect guidance, use cases, and knowledge they may not have internally. We have solutions and expertise that help support their success.

And third, rewarding. The partner program must reward our partners. They support us, so we want to reciprocate their support by offering a program that brings them benefits, results, and business success.

RUCKUS Networks enables our partners to provide a higher level of service to their end customers. Join the RUCKUS BIG DOGS Partner Program today!