The Regenda Group is using cloud-based technology from Cisco Meraki to turn its new Merseyside office into a completely wireless environment, with two Cisco Meraki wireless access points connecting the housing provider’s array of mobile equipment to its corporate data network. The system was implemented by the Cisco partner Equanet.
John Paul Petryczuk, ICT mobile systems manager, The Regenda Group, said, “With Cisco Meraki technology running in the cloud there is no need for physical controllers, and without the need of complex integration methods, the set-up and installation of the equipment was completed within two weeks.”
The system uses Radius Server for secure authentication to Regenda’s corporate data network and allows a variety of devices to connect to the wireless network, including Wyse terminals, and multiple SSIDs to allow guest internet access.
The system’s browser-based dashboard makes it easy to use and removes the need for additional staff time to manage the devices. It also paves the way for Regenda to introduce a ‘bring your own device’ strategy.
Petryczuk said, “The ease with which the browser-based dashboard functions work and the speed at which the access points can be deployed means that all of Regenda’s remote office locations and depots will be equipped with the Cisco Meraki technology within a matter of weeks.
“The product also includes self-billing functionality, whereby credits can be bought in return for access to the internet. This could theoretically provide us with an additional revenue stream by charging staff for personal internet access on their own smartphones and tablets.”
