Understanding Managed Networking, Managed Network Hardware and More

Ventus designs managed network solutions around Ventus Technologies' proprietary wireless LTE and fixed line routers with dual SIM multi-carrier service. They’re perfectly suited for ATMs, BTMs, kiosks, micro markets, digital signs and other applications. All hardware is pre-configured and plug-and-play ready prior to deployment.

But why should you consider a managed network provider?

Managed network basics

What is a managed network?

A managed network, or managed service, is an outsourced IT solution that can cover the entirety of a communication network through remote access. A network management service provider sells its services to businesses that want a competent IT solution they don’t have to worry about themselves. This includes all hardware infrastructure and network monitoring — in other words, Ventus takes care of everything.

Network management uses a data center to host the network, which can be either in the cloud or on-premises. The network management service provider includes monitoring and can also offer network security if desired.

What are the benefits of outsourced network management?

Traditionally, businesses would lease their network infrastructure, including any cables or network hardware such as routers and switches. That, to put it simply, is no longer necessary — or practical.

It can take a lot of time, effort and expertise for a business to host its own network. They would need to train and employ a full-time IT staff to perform monitoring and maintenance alone. Additionally, the business would have to pay for and house its own expensive networking equipment on-site.

Outsourced network management takes a different approach, enabling businesses to pay someone else to manage their infrastructure for them.

Ventus has a wide range of options with various price plans, allowing you to customize your options to be as comprehensive or limited as you need.

Your managed WAN options

There are two common types of WAN: switched and point-to-point.

Switched WANs use a shared network infrastructure to connect several LANs. As the name suggests, this type of network is controlled by a switch that allocates network resources where they’re most needed. This type of network can be a good choice for your business if the connected network environments have similar configurations and needs.

Point-to-point WANs were the standard when dial-up internet was the norm, though they’re still around today in a more modern package. Leased lines connect two LANs together in this type of setup. They have the benefit of being secure and highly customizable, more so than switched WANs. This makes them better suited to connect locations that have varying configurations and requirements.

Network hardware needs

While the type of networking hardware used in each network can vary depending on its needs, they typically share some common characteristics. Here are some of the types of network devices you can expect in Ventus’ network management solution.

Routers

A router enables one network, such as a LAN, to connect to another, like a WAN. Routers connect to the modem via a cable. Network devices can also plug into the router to give it access to the second network, which is a form of LAN. On the other hand, if the network device and router are both designed for a wireless network, then the two can interface without the need for a cable. However, the router’s connection to the modem is always wired to ensure maximum security and reliability. Routers are typically managed by a network administrator.

Network interface cards (NICs)

The part of the computer that connects to a managed network device with a cable is the NIC. These can be separate cards that plug into a motherboard, but more often, they’re commonly built into it.

Firewall

Capable of being dedicated hardware as well as software, firewalls determine what can and cannot pass through a network. They’re always placed between two points, such as a device and the router, or alternatively, between the router and the modem.

Modems

The modem is the gate to the internet or WAN, and connects to the router. How the modem connects to the internet depends on what type of connection it supports. For example, a cable modem connects to that type of connection, and a dial-up modem connects to a phone line.

Managed Network Switch

The more sophisticated successor to the hub or bridge, managed switches enable a number of devices to connect to the router. This unit also has the ability to manage large amounts of network traffic while keeping network performance high.

Cables

While many devices are wireless, cables are still used to provide a more secure and stable connection. They’re more secure because the traffic can’t be intercepted the same way a wireless signal can. They also have better stability because they can’t be interrupted by physical obstacles, such as walls or ceilings. This is why they’re still used to connect routers to modems.

Network node

A network node is a catch-all term for anything that sends and receives data within a network. Devices, switches and routers all fall under the umbrella category of network nodes.

Ventus’ advanced network hardware offerings

Hardware flexibility to meet your needs

Ventus Managed NaaS solutions can incorporate existing customer premises equipment and network infrastructure or develop new infrastructure utilizing equipment from Ventus Technologies V-Series routers or our certified manufacturers.

Ventus Technologies

Industry-proven networking routers for ATMs, BTMs, digital signage, kiosks, POS and more

Enterprise organizations rely on Ventus for industry-proven wireless LTE and fixed line routers, servers, and networking equipment. Our hardware provides the perfect balance of robust functionality and consistent dependability for secure, intelligent networking. Enable uniform multi-channel delivery through your entire product portfolio, including ATMs, BTMs, digital signage, kiosks, POS, and other connected devices, with our platform agnostic architecture.

Ventus Technologies routers offer unique features and benefits that reflect our experience in providing cellular and fixed line networks that require high availability and peak performance. Designed for maximum flexibility, our intelligent routers serve as building blocks for adaptable network infrastructures and smart solutions. Ventus Technologies routers offer secure, robust connectivity with dual SIMs with auto-failover, as well as power and network alerts for any Enterprise or M2M / IoT networking application.

Ventus routers support multiple applications and connections for wireless and fixed line networks, including 4G LTE, Ethernet, Fiber, MPLS, Frame Relay, DSL and Cable. All Ventus networking appliances are manufactured in accordance with Restrictions on Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directives and ISO 9001:2008 certification quality assurance standards.

The Ventus Technologies V2000X4 network router supports cellular 4G LTE-A and broadband connectivity. The 1 WAN and 3 LAN Ethernet ports allow for retail, restaurant, and branch environments as both primary and failover connectivity. With its small form factor and plug ‘n play installation, the V2000X4 is also ideal for M2M / IoT deployments for kiosks, digital signs, ATMs, and more. All Ventus routers are completely inter-operable with networking appliances from Cisco, Juniper, and other third-party manufacturers.

Ventus provides a fully-managed solution for our V2000X4 with Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS). From end-to-end Ventus Managed NaaS provides total network management and support for the V2000X4, including network designs, aggregated network service providers, hardware procurement, field services, maintenance replacements, and comprehensive 24x7x365 active monitoring that ensures your network and applications experience disruption-free, always-on connectivity. In addition to maintaining industry-leading availability, Managed NaaS includes support from the Ventus Technical Support Center, where in-house technical support specialists are available around the clock to provide one-call resolution.

The Ventus Technologies V2000X4E network router supports cellular 4G LTE-A with 3G Failover and broadband connectivity in the EU, Canada and Mexico. The 1 WAN and 3 LAN Ethernet ports support retail, restaurant and branch environments for both primary and failover connectivity internationally. With its small form factor and plug ‘n play installation, the V2000X4E is also ideal for M2M / IoT deployments for kiosks, digital signs, ATMs and more. All Ventus routers are completely inter-operable with networking appliances from Cisco, Juniper and other third-party manufacturers.

Ventus provides a fully-managed solution for our V2000X4E with Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS). From end-to-end Ventus Managed NaaS provides total network management and support for the V2000X4E including network designs, aggregated network service providers, hardware procurement, field services, maintenance replacements and comprehensive 24x7x365 active monitoring that ensures your network and applications experience disruption-free, always-on connectivity. In addition to maintaining industry-leading availability, Managed NaaS includes support from the Ventus Technical Support Center, where in-house technical support specialists are available around the clock to provide one-call resolution.

The Ventus Technologies VRB842 provides secure 4G LTE connectivity with remote power reboot functionality in one device. The VRB482’s ability to remotely reboot two separate devices independently makes it an ideal solution for IoT / M2M connected devices in distributed or remote offices, stores and branches where a power recycle can eliminate a service call or truck roll.

The VRB842's reboot functionality is made possible by an embedded 4G LTE router, offering secure, reliable network connectivity. The reboot functionality is managed by the Ventus Genesis™ Intelligent Network Monitoring. Genesis can monitor an entire network of VRB842 devices from a single web portal. The VRB842 is shipped pre-configured for plug-and-play deployments to ensure quick and timely installs. No additional Internet connectivity is required; the VRB842 is a complete solution with LAN network support via 2 Ethernet ports or embedded 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.

VRB842 Key Features

-    Remote power reboot for 2 devices.

-    4G LTE wireless cellular connectivity.

-    Dual SIM with auto-failover.

-    Supports VPN encrypted tunnels.

-    Genesis network monitoring platform.

Eliminating the Need for Service Calls

Whether you are supporting thousands of POS stations, ticketing kiosks, ATMs, bitcoin ATMs (BTM) or remote locations, the ability to remotely reboot devices that are prone to freezing up with the VRB842, decreases lengthy downtime. The VRB842 increases productivity while reducing the need for service calls to remote locations to perform simple power reboots.

Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) provides a fully managed solution for the VRB842. From end-to-end Ventus Managed NaaS provides total network management and support. Ventus engineers design and architect a fully integrated WAN network tailored to meet your specific business needs. Ventus’ supplier agnostic philosophy sources the internet service providers that are most appropriate for each location. While Ventus project managers ensure deployments are seamless and project deadlines are met.

All networks are monitored 24x7x365 by the Ventus Technical Support Center (TSC). The Ventus TSC is there around the clock to answer any questions with our one-call resolution promise. The Ventus TSC also handles all direct communications, escalations and ticketing with internet service providers, allowing you to focus on your core business.

The Ventus Technologies VXI300 is an Enterprise-class network router with the ability to act as a 3x3 dual band 2.4Ghz/5Ghz Wi-Fi access point. The VXI300 employs a LTE-A, Cat-12 module with up to 600Mbps downlink and 150Mbps uplink speed with global network support across all carriers. The internal cellular multiband 2x2 MIMO antenna achieves high spatial multiplexing gains for clarity of the signal.

The Ventus Technologies VXI300 provides secure LTE-A connectivity with advanced signal reception from distances of up to 328 feet from required network access. VXI solves poor coverage areas such as basements, telecom closets, interior locations and other signal challenged locations. The router/antenna hybrid device can be placed wherever the strongest signal is located and can be connected by a single PoE enabled Ethernet cable, minimizing cabling and simplifying deployments.

Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) provides a fully managed solution for the VXI300. From end-to-end Ventus Managed NaaS provides total network management and support. Ventus engineers design and architect a fully integrated WAN network tailored to meet your specific business needs. Ventus’ supplier agnostic philosophy sources the internet service providers that are most appropriate for each location. While Ventus project managers ensure deployments are seamless and project deadlines are met.

All networks are monitored 24x7x365 by the Ventus Technical Support Center (TSC). The Ventus TSC is there around the clock to answer any questions with our one-call resolution promise. The Ventus TSC also handles all direct communications, escalations and ticketing with internet service providers, allowing you to focus on your core business.

The Ventus Technologies LC100 delivers secure 4G LTE-A connectivity in a compact design perfect for applications such as bitcoin ATM (BTM), digital signs, kiosks and e-lockers. This model offers secure, reliable connectivity, whether Ethernet or Wi-Fi, where space is at a premium. The LC100 is pre-configured before shipment for zero-touch deployments with single or dual SIMs that automatically failover for maximum network connectivity.

The LC100, with its compact form factor and lay flat antenna, fits into the tightest installations. Despite its size, the device still delivers when it comes to bandwidth and availability. For deployments requiring antenna placement outside an enclosure, the optional corded Ventus Compact Dual Antenna can be deployed up to 6 feet away.

Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) provides a fully managed solution for the LC100. From end-to-end Ventus Managed NaaS provides total network management and support. Ventus engineers design and architect a fully integrated WAN network tailored to meet your specific business needs. Ventus’ supplier agnostic philosophy sources the internet service providers that are most appropriate for each location, while Ventus project managers ensure deployments are seamless and project deadlines are met.

All networks are monitored 24x7x365 by the Ventus Technical Support Center (TSC). The Ventus TSC is there around the clock to answer any questions with our one-call resolution promise. The Ventus TSC also handles all direct communications, escalations and ticketing with internet service providers, allowing you to focus on your core business.

Why you should rely on a managed network provider

Ventus’ network services are perfect for any business that wants to ensure it’s using the latest networking technologies, all handled by competent professionals with top-grade customer service.

Outsourcing network devices and management is often more economical than staffing your own IT team and buying your own hardware. Network management, which could safely be categorized as an “as a service” product similar to cybersecurity as a service, allows you to let someone else deal with all that. The service can free up valuable human and financial resources to work on business-related tasks instead.

Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS)

Get the power of a fully-managed solution with Ventus Managed Network-as-a-Service (NaaS). Managed NaaS provides total network management, including network designs, aggregated network service providers, hardware procurement, field services, maintenance replacements and comprehensive 24x7x365 active monitoring that ensures your network and applications experience disruption-free, always-on connectivity. In addition to maintaining industry-leading availability, Managed NaaS includes support from the Ventus Technical Support Center, where in-house technical support specialists are available around the clock to provide one-call resolution.

All the Reach and Depth That You Require

Ventus provides nationwide field service support, leveraging our partner network and regional Ventus teams. All field services are managed by Ventus in-house. The Ventus field services project management team supports projects from end-to-end including the provisioning of all network connectivity, pilot testing, certification, installations, confirmation of site deployment and life cycle management. This includes five nationwide distribution centers and 5,000 bonded technicians.

Customized logistics solutions

Ventus offers an ideal solution for large‐scale, complex network upgrades, expansions or new implementations that involve cabling, routers, hubs, CSU/DSUs, modems, servers and other networking equipment. Ventus acts as a single source for the planning and design, procurement, configuration, installation and migration of all components necessary for a turnkey network solution.

On-time and up-to specification

Ventus has extensive experience with major, multi‐phase projects to ensure expectations are met and implementation schedules are communicated. Ventus keeps customers informed of progress, appraised of mitigating factors, and aware of implementation details to ensure rollouts are efficiently executed.

Flexibility for your IT dollars

Ventus provides enterprise IT departments with the option of OPEX or CAPEX pricing. Changes in networking and the migration to cloud services have allowed more enterprises to evaluate IT expenses. Ventus can accommodate flexibility regarding purchasing needs.

Starting a new project or optimizing an existing network? Find out how Ventus Managed NaaS can support your efforts. Contact us today.