Zebra Technologies Network Management - Short Review

Overview

Zebra’s network management tools are part of the broader Mobility DNA suite, which aims to enhance mobile user productivity while minimizing IT complexities. These solutions are tailored to manage and optimize cellular (WWAN) and Wi-Fi (WLAN) network connections, ensuring devices always use the optimal network available.

Key Features and Functionality

Network Connection Manager (NetworkConnectionMgr)

• This tool allows administrators to manage and deploy lists of access points for wireless networks. It enables the ranking of access points in order of priority and setting minimum signal levels to ensure reliable connections. Administrators can also set preferences for device connections to cellular and Wi-Fi networks, ensuring devices use the optimal network at all times.

Access Point Management

• Administrators can manage lists of cellular networks identified by operator name, mobile country code (MCC), and mobile network code (MNC), as well as Wi-Fi networks identified by their SSID. This includes the ability to perform various actions on these network lists, such as adding, removing, or updating network preferences.

Automated Network Profile Management

• Zebra’s solutions allow for easy onboarding and provisioning of network profiles with a single scan, automating device enrollment. Network profiles can be remotely updated across the entire fleet to ensure compliance with corporate policies.

Network Performance Optimization

• The tools provide real-time visibility into wireless network performance, enabling IT administrators to troubleshoot and optimize connectivity issues rapidly. This ensures consistent quality and high throughput connections for data, voice, and video across various mobile conditions.

Security and Compliance

• Zebra’s network management solutions adhere to the latest security standards, ensuring robust and secure Wi-Fi communication. Administrators can automate the enforcement of network settings to comply with corporate policies, and the solutions offer cellular-grade security for private networks.

Private 5G Networks

• For more specialized needs, Zebra offers Private 5G (P5G) solutions, which provide cellular connectivity accessible only by company-authorized users. P5G networks offer low latency, Quality of Service (QoS) control, and optimized application performance. These networks can be used independently or in combination with public cellular and Wi-Fi networks, providing seamless fallback options.

Comprehensive Diagnostics and Troubleshooting

• The solutions include comprehensive network diagnostics, enabling rapid identification and resolution of connectivity issues. Tools like Wireless Insights help monitor key network metrics and mobile device experiences, identifying the root cause of network challenges.

Integration and Customization

• Zebra’s network management solutions integrate seamlessly with other Zebra technologies, such as Bluetooth support for enterprise needs. They also offer customized pairing experiences for devices and peripherals, reducing complexity and enhancing workflow efficiency.

In summary, Zebra Technologies’ network management solutions are designed to streamline network deployment, ensure optimal network performance, enhance security, and simplify the management of wireless networks. These tools are essential for enterprises looking to maximize mobile user productivity and minimize IT complexities.