In practice
The implementation of an Aruba 6000 Mobility Controller and over 1000 Aruba AP-225 wireless access points was rolled out across the property over an eight-month period to limit inconvenience to guests.
MDS UAE also implemented Aruba’s AirWave Network Management platform, which delivers visibility to all devices and connections on the wireless network, allowing administrators to proactively plan for capacity, visualise client performance and troubleshoot application issues.
Emirates Palace also took advantage of a week-long training programme offered by Aruba. Akdeniz commented: “[The training] has ensured that we are capable of utilising the solution
to its utmost potential and managing even complex tasks in-house.”
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The deployment was executed by MDS UAE who integrated the Aruba solution with the wired network. Akdeniz said: “Having a competent Aruba platinum partner carry out implementation was a huge benefit.”
Results
The solution increased capacity from 54Mbps to 1.3Gbps and its centralised nature appealed to the IT team.
The Aruba 6000 Mobility Controller has eliminated the need for manual configuration of access points and it runs automated software updates of all the Aruba-225 APs. Furthermore, a range of advanced features have provided a high level of security.
A graphical user interface allows administrators to make rapid changes to the network and its security settings, meaning it is more customisable, and able to meet the needs of each meeting and conference.
Akdeniz said: “We no longer waste manpower tending to labour intensive processes. Everything is easily managed from one location and visibility into every part of the network has enabled proactive troubleshooting, drastically reducing reaction time.
“Complaints about poor network performance have virtually disappeared and our business customers are often amazed to find how quickly we can accommodate their requirements.”
While currently the wireless infrastructure is used to support internet services, point of sales and digital signage, the new network has opened up the possibility of offering a complete range of guest services.
Emirates Palace already has plans to enable internet TV and music streaming and smart device controlled operation of in-room electronics. These services will rely on the new increased bandwidth solution.
“It is no longer about providing wireless; that is practically a given,” comments Akdeniz.
“Not all wireless is equal though; our solution enables us to improve guest experience in ways that they haven’t even considered.”
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