Peplink InControl 2: How Can it Benefit You and Do You Need It?

In the world of networking, efficient management and seamless connectivity are essential for both businesses and individual users. More and more networking hardware has become available that includes some sort of remote management option. Providing users a way to at least monitor their device’s connectivity remotely can be a great assistant in maintaining device performance. However, it begs to question whether or not remote management is needed for everyone.

In this article, we’d like to explore Peplink InControl 2, or IC2 for short. This is a powerful cloud-based platform that is designed to simplify and enhance network management for Peplink devices. Read on as we explore what IC2 is, how it works, and why it’s a vital tool for maximizing the potential of your network.

What is Peplink InControl 2?

Peplink InControl 2 (IC2) is a cloud-based network management solution that simplifies monitoring, managing, and configuring devices from a centralized dashboard. It supports remote firmware updates, detailed network insights, device tracking, and custom reports that you can’t gain from the device’s local web admin. Its scalability suits deployments of all sizes, and it integrates seamlessly with Peplink products for real-time management. 

How Does Peplink InControl 2 Work?

InControl 2 connects your Peplink devices to the cloud, creating a unified platform for monitoring and management. Devices are registered and linked to your IC2 account, granting only you and your team access to a host of features. This includes:

• Centralized Management: Control and configure multiple devices from a single dashboard.
• Detailed Reporting: Access real-time and historical data on device performance, network usage, and health.
• Remote Configuration: Make changes to device settings, firmware, and policies without being on-site.

IC2’s secure infrastructure ensures your network remains protected while providing flexibility for remote and distributed deployments. Check out our video demo below on setting up an account and accessing your devices using the Remote Web Admin feature. For more videos, check out the 5Gstore YouTube channel!

Benefits of Peplink InControl 2

1. Centralized and Remote Management

For businesses and individuals managing multiple Peplink devices, IC2 is a game-changer. It eliminates the need for physical access to devices and streamlines the management process by offering:

• Web-Based Interface: Configure devices anywhere with an internet connection.
• Zero-Touch Configuration: Simplify the deployment of new devices by pushing settings remotely.
• Starlink Integration: Gain visibility into Starlink connection details for enhanced control.

2. Bulk Configuration Capabilities

Save time by applying changes across multiple devices simultaneously. This includes updating firmware, managing firewall rules, and configuring network policies. You can also use InControl 2 to refer back to an earlier configuration as needed or even transfer a configuration from one device to another. 

3. Enhanced Reporting

IC2 provides detailed insights that are unavailable through local management, including:

• GeoIP-based firewall rules.
• SaaS-specific outbound policies.
• Advanced data usage and performance analytics.

What Do You Lose Without Peplink InControl 2?

While Peplink devices can operate without IC2, users miss out on several enhancements:

• Centralized management for multiple devices.
• Starlink connection monitoring.
• GeoIP firewall rules and SaaS-specific outbound policies.
• Bulk configuration of device settings.
• Access to Peplink’s Dynamic DNS (dynDNS) service.

Without IC2, network management becomes more time-intensive and limited, especially for complex or distributed setups.

PrimeCare Plans: Enhancing the Peplink InControl 2 Experience

Peplink’s PrimeCare subscription goes beyond IC2 access by offering a suite of additional benefits. It combines warranty coverage, technical support, and advanced networking features into one comprehensive plan.

Key Features of Peplink PrimeCare:

1. Extended Hardware Warranty: Protect your investment with coverage against manufacturing defects.
2. SpeedFusion Capabilities: Leverage Hot Failover, WAN Smoothing, and Bandwidth Bonding for resilient connectivity.
3. Unlimited FusionHub Peers: Connect multiple devices to FusionHub without extra licensing fees.
4. InTouch Remote Management: Simplify network management with zero-touch solutions (this feature requires an active SpeedFusion Connect Usage plan).
5. Wi-Fi Access Point and Switch Management: Configure multiple APs and PoE switches through IC2 or locally as needed.
6. Additional Features:
   • BYO eSIM activation for flexibility.
   • 1 Virtual WAN on VLAN.
   • Advanced BR1 Mini capabilities, such as Wi-Fi WAN activation.

Final Thoughts

Peplink InControl 2 transforms how networks are managed, offering unparalleled control, visibility, and efficiency. Whether you’re managing a single device or an extensive network, IC2 simplifies operations and ensures optimal performance. Paired with a PrimeCare plan, it becomes an indispensable tool for any business or individual seeking reliable and scalable connectivity solutions.

Invest in Peplink’s IC2 and PrimeCare to unlock the full potential of your network today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need PrimeCare for InControl 2 access?
Yes, PrimeCare includes IC2 access along with other valuable features like SpeedFusion and extended warranties.

2. Can I manage devices locally without InControl 2?
Yes, devices can be configured locally via WebUI, but IC2 offers advanced tools and centralized management unavailable through local access.

3. What happens if my PrimeCare subscription expires?
Core functionality remains, but IC2 access, SpeedFusion, and other premium features are disabled until the subscription is renewed.

4. Where can I renew my InControl 2 subscription or PrimeCare plan?
Simply go to 5Gstore.com and enter your Peplink serial number in the Search bar. This will pull compatible services for your device. Have more than one device? No problem, just email a list of serial numbers to sales@5gstore.com and we’ll provide you a quote!

5. How much is it to maintain InControl 2 management on my Peplink device(s)?
For some non-PrimeCare devices (Velocity products only), you may purchase an InControl 2 subscription for $29 per year. For PrimeCare devices the price varies, but starts at $49 per year.