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Reinforcing WiFi Redundancy (continued)

"Even though these networks are separate, wireless users often connect to a wire-line network. A network manager has to be aware of issues associated with the WiFi device and network that could bring down the wire-line network," observes Schatt.

In short, the entire network system -- both wired and wireless -- is mission critical.  Yet too many enterprises are missing the message, warns San Jose, Calif. -based Rachna Ahlawat, research director of Gartner's Wireless Networking. "There's not much difference in redundancy for wired and wireless. Both must be covered."

Eight Secrets to Achieving Redundancy
How can IT departments super-size their redundancy plans? Consider these eight ways to reinforce your entire network:

• Intelligent switches (controller) As the wireless LAN (WLAN) industry moves toward a model with the real intelligence centered in the switch or controller, a resilient WiFi network should have additional unused switches to permit active failover. 
• Battery backup for the switch In the event of a power failure, backup power is needed for the switch and for access points that rely on power over Ethernet (POE).
• Hot-swappable spares for the switch Most switches now permit hot-swapping of failed circuit boards, allowing quick replacement of components without the need to shut down the entire network segment.
• Dense access point configuration Today's access points can direct their traffic to replacements if one fails, but if the access points are out of radio range for users, they are useless. Make sure there are sufficient access points for the system. (article continues)

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