Novo3 and HPE Aruba Networking were pleased to present a comprehensive update across the entire HPE Aruba Networking for clients in November 2024.
We kicked off with a corporate update from the one and only Syd Ediriweera, the Education Territory Manager at HPE Aruba Networking. He provided the attendees with a high-level overview of the highlights from HPE Discover 2024, new innovations and an update on the Juniper acquisition.
Johnny Vo, Channel Systems Engineer with HPE Aruba Networking, then delved deeper into the key innovations available from Aruba now and into 2025.
The Benefits of AI in the New Version of Aruba Central
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, network management is becoming increasingly complex. Aruba Central, known for its robust cloud-based networking capabilities, has raised the bar with the integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) in the latest version. This update is a game-changer for IT teams and businesses aiming to optimize their network operations while reducing operational overhead. Here’s a look at the transformative benefits AI brings to Aruba Central:
1. Proactive Problem Detection and Resolution
AI-powered Aruba Central excels in identifying and addressing network issues before they escalate.
2. Enhanced Network Performance
AI optimizes network performance by continuously monitoring and adjusting parameters.
3. Improved Troubleshooting with AI Insights
AI in Aruba Central provides actionable insights by correlating data from multiple sources and visualizing the network’s health.
4. Simplified IT Operations
Routine tasks such as firmware updates, configuration changes, and compliance checks can now be automated with minimal human intervention.
5. Predictive Analytics for Better Planning
With predictive analytics, Aruba Central can forecast network demand, suggest capacity upgrades, and identify potential bottlenecks before they impact users.
6. Improved User Experience
Aruba Central achieves this by ensuring consistent, high-quality connectivity and by leveraging AI to understand and adapt to user behaviour.
Why Aruba SASE is a Great Solution to Protect Users On and Off the Corporate Network
In an era where workforces are increasingly mobile and cloud adoption is surging, traditional security perimeters are no longer adequate. Aruba’s Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) framework addresses this challenge by providing comprehensive, scalable, and cloud-native security. It enables businesses to protect their users—whether on or off the corporate network—with seamless, unified solutions.
Here’s why Aruba SASE provides exceptional support for your organisation:
1. Unified Security Across Environments
Aruba SASE integrates network and security functionalities into a single, cloud-delivered platform.
2. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
Access is granted based on strict identity verification, device posture, and continuous monitoring.
3. Advanced Threat Protection
Aruba SASE includes Intrusion Prevention Systems, Web Filtering & Deep Packet Inspection.
4. Secure Internet Access for Remote Workers
Aruba SASE provides secure web gateways (SWG) and cloud-based firewalls that protect remote users by filtering web traffic, blocking threats, and ensuring compliance—no matter where they connect from.
5. Optimized Cloud Access with SD-WAN
This ensures secure and optimized access to cloud services like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or any SaaS applications without compromising on security.
6. Scalability and Flexibility
As a cloud-delivered solution, Aruba SASE scales effortlessly to meet the needs of growing businesses.
7. Simplified Management and Visibility
Aruba Central, the cloud management platform powering Aruba SASE, offers centralized visibility and control over the entire network and security stack.
Amongst a number of new HPE Aruba Networking switching options suitable for schools, Johnny touched on the new CX-5420 chassis for those looking for greater flexibility of port types and densities, NEW CX-6400 modules and 100Gb models of CX-6300 switches being released. And don’t forget the NEW certified Aruba WiFi 7 Access Points.
Why Add Wi-Fi 7 Access Points to Your Current Environment?
As wireless technology continues to evolve, businesses are always looking for ways to improve performance, scalability, and user experience. Wi-Fi 7, the next-generation wireless standard, promises to revolutionize connectivity with groundbreaking enhancements.
Here’s why integrating Wi-Fi 7 access points into your current environment is a smart move:
1. Unmatched Speeds for High-Bandwidth Applications
Wi-Fi 7, also known as IEEE 802.11be, offers multi-gigabit speeds that are ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications such as 4K/8K streaming, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming. With support for a maximum data rate of up to 46 Gbps, Wi-Fi 7 can handle the most demanding workloads effortlessly, ensuring a smooth and lag-free experience.
2. Reduced Latency for Real-Time Applications
Wi-Fi 7 introduces advanced features such as Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows devices to communicate simultaneously on multiple frequency bands. This significantly reduces latency and enhances the reliability of connections, even in environments with high interference.
3. Enhanced Network Efficiency with Multi-RU and OFDMA
Wi-Fi 7 takes advantage of advanced Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) and Multi-Resource Unit (Multi-RU) allocation. These technologies allow better use of available spectrum, enabling more devices to connect simultaneously without degrading performance. This is especially beneficial in high-density environments like offices, campuses, and public venues.
4. Future-Proofing Your Network
By integrating Wi-Fi 7 access points into your network, you’re future-proofing your infrastructure for the coming wave of Wi-Fi 7-enabled devices. As more smartphones, laptops, IoT devices, and industrial equipment adopt this standard, your network will be ready to accommodate them without requiring a complete overhaul.
5. Backward Compatibility
Wi-Fi 7 access points are fully backward-compatible with earlier Wi-Fi standards, ensuring seamless integration with existing devices. This allows businesses to adopt Wi-Fi 7 gradually, avoiding the disruption and cost of replacing their entire network infrastructure at once.
6. Scalability for IoT and Smart Devices
As IoT adoption grows, networks need to support thousands of connected devices. Wi-Fi 7’s advanced features, such as Target Wake Time (TWT) and multi-band operation, allow efficient management of IoT devices by reducing power consumption and improving connectivity.
Thanks to all those who were able to attend and those that expressed interest but couldn’t make it on the day. Looking forward to seeing you at our next event.
Team Novo3
