Deploying a wireless network can save you up to 50 per cent of the costs of a traditional wired network as it requires less physical hardware to roll out and maintain, according to Dimension Data’s 2013 Barometer Report.
The report looked at the costs of deploying a traditional wired network in a five-floor building with 100 users per floor compared to a wireless network of the same size. A wired network would cost US$300,000, according for Dimension Data, requiring cabling for 140 points and three 48-port switches. The wireless network would cost US$120,000, with cabling for 30 points and one 48-port switch.
In addition to capital savings, the report said a wireless network is cheaper to operate because they are easier to manage, provide unified access and require less power and cooling.
“We predict that the combination of these factors, in addition to pressure from end users, will eventually turn the 80:20 ratio on its head so that future networks will be 80 per cent wireless and 20 per cent wired,” Dimension Data said in its report.
Neil Campbell, director of solutions at Dimension Data, said more organisations will look to deploy wireless networks not only for the cost saving benefits but also because the push for bring your own device will “inevitably change the structure of networks” to support a wireless environment.
“Think, plan and budget more architecturally, rather than reactively, when refreshing networks. The pressure to provide a more flexible, wireless environment conducive to enterprise mobility and BYOD will only grow stronger in the future,” he said.
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