Tag: management

Streamlining Network Management: The Benefits of Co-Terminating Router Warranties

Networks serve as the backbone of business operations and ensuring seamless connectivity is paramount. One critical aspect of network management often overlooked is the maintenance of router warranties. Many businesses operate with multiple routers, each requiring individual warranty management. However, there’s a streamlined solution that offers numerous benefits: co-terming router warranties.

Co-terming router warranties involves aligning the expiration dates of warranties across all routers within a network infrastructure. This approach simplifies the administrative burden, enhances budgeting and planning, streamlines support processes, and ensures consistent coverage. Let’s delve deeper into some of these advantages:

  1. Simplified Management: Managing warranties for multiple routers can be a logistical challenge. Co-terming warranties eliminates the need to track individual expiration dates, allowing for centralized and streamlined management of warranties.
  2. Budgeting and Planning: With co-terming, businesses can align warranty expiration dates with their budgeting and planning cycles. This facilitates better financial forecasting and allocation of resources for future router replacements or upgrades.
  3. Streamlined Support: When warranties expire at different times, it can complicate support processes. Co-terming warranties ensures that all routers are covered simultaneously, simplifying support and replacement procedures in case of failures.
  4. Consistent Coverage: Co-terming warranties ensures consistent coverage across all routers in the network. This uniformity minimizes the risk of downtime due to unexpected failures, enhancing overall reliability and performance.
  5. Risk Mitigation and Business Continuity: Relying on routers without warranty coverage poses significant risks to business operations. Hardware failures can result in costly downtime, loss of productivity, and potential data loss. Co-terming router warranties mitigates these risks by ensuring timely support and replacement options. By synchronizing warranty expiration dates, businesses can proactively address hardware issues before they escalate, minimizing the impact on operations. Furthermore, co-terming warranties provide peace of mind, knowing that support is readily available when needed, thereby safeguarding business continuity. 

To initiate the co-terming process, it’s essential for businesses to provide the serial numbers of their routers along with the desired expiration date alignment. Armed with this information, vendors can synchronize the warranties accordingly, providing a seamless experience for the business.

In conclusion, co-terming router warranties offers a myriad of benefits for businesses with multiple routers. From simplifying administrative tasks to optimizing budgeting and planning, streamlining support processes, and ensuring consistent coverage, co-terming is a strategy worth considering for efficient network management. By embracing co-terming, businesses can navigate the complexities of network maintenance with greater ease and confidence, ultimately driving productivity and success.

If you need assistance with co-terming your own router warranties, reach out to the 5Gstore sales team. We’re available to help Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm CT. 

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Peplink: Take Control of Your Management Software

So, you have purchased a Peplink Router—Congratulations! This can be an exciting prospect for many users looking to implement Peplink products into their network or use Peplink as their primary source of Internet. One of the most popular reasons for purchasing a Peplink is their remote management service, this comes in the form of the Peplink InControl 2 website (IC2) and the Peplink app, or basic local administration from the router itself. New Peplink users can find these options a little daunting. 5Gstore is here to help you get started! We will discuss the different ways you can manage your Peplink devices and some issues that may occur when using them.

InControl 2 Cloud-Based Management

Network management requires constant maintenance, standardization of device configurations, monitoring of network health and urgent troubleshooting. If you are a general home user or an experienced technician monitoring large networks, Peplink’s InControl 2 cloud-based remote manager has you covered. This cloud-based management platform empowers users with unparalleled oversight and control over their Peplink devices, all accessible through the convenience of any web browser. Whether it’s deploying mass configuration changes, monitoring real-time network stability or responding to unexpected issues, InControl 2 streamlines these tasks with a very user-friendly interface. When it comes to managing even a single router with InControl 2, you do not have to be a networking engineer. In fact, in most cases, configuring settings through InControl 2 is easier than manually configuring the router from its administrative graphical user interface (GUI).

Peplink App

The Peplink app provides users with the convenience of managing their network from anywhere, at any time. Optimized for mobile devices, the app allows users to quickly access key networking features, monitor the health and performance of their Peplink devices, and receive instant alerts. While it offers a more condensed interface than its web-based counterpart, the Peplink app is engineered for efficiency, ensuring that essential functions are easily accessible. Whether you’re troubleshooting on the go, adjusting configurations, or checking the status of your network, the Peplink app simplifies network management. The app is currently available on Android and iOS devices to provide flexibility and control over your network.

Local Web Administration

As with all routers, Peplink is configurable directly from the device itself. This is accomplished by connecting to the router’s wifi or connecting a pc or laptop to one of your device’s LAN ports. Once connected you can visit the device’s web admin by opening a browser (Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.) and typing in the IP address of your router. For Peplink this will either be 192.168.50.1 or 192.168.1.1, depending on if the Peplink is a Pepwave MAX or a Peplink Balance router. This will give you full access to your router’s configuration. When comparing this option to the previously discussed InControl 2 and Peplink app, most users may find configuring their Peplink unit to require more effort and knowledge of router settings. 

Which Management Option Is Best?

Choosing the right management tool for your Peplink devices can significantly improve your networking experience. 5Gstore personally recommends InControl 2 if you want as much control as possible from anywhere at any time and while the Peplink app offers convenience for basic management tasks on the go, Peplink’s InControl 2 platform stands out as the superior choice for comprehensive network management. InControl 2 provides a unified dashboard that allows you to monitor and manage all of your Peplink devices across multiple locations.

 This platform excels in its depth of features and will continue to be the leading management platform from Peplink when it comes to getting new updates and features. InControl 2 management can also be shared to anyone that you want to have access to assist in your networking management and the amount of access that you provide another user can be adjusted.

If you are a 5Gstore customer this provides an added bonus to your 5Gstore tech support. Having a problem with your configuration and not sure where the problem is? As a 5Gstore customer you can add our tech support agents directly to your InControl 2 group for hands-on assistance from your rep. 5Gstore does not directly support the Peplink app and providing hands on support is not always an easy task when using the local web admin. However, if you are still deciding which way to manage your Peplink, below is a general guideline for each option based on use case!

  • Peplink App – Configure router settings remotely with a simplified user interface on a mobile device
  • Web Admin – Configure basic to advanced router settings in 1 router on a desktop
  • InControl 2 – Monitor the status of multiple routers, with quantities varying from a few to hundreds, and apply configurations to the devices (e.g. firmware upgrade schedule, outbound policy) all at once.

Can All 3 Options Be Used At The Same Time?

This is where management can be a bit more complex. You can essentially have access to all 3 options, but if you allow InControl 2 to manage your settings you will have a limited view of certain details within the app such as Data usage/WAN quality, and Connected devices. As for the InControl 2 and the Peplink app you must choose which one to place in control of your settings. InControl 2 and the Peplink app will override any changes made directly from the router login and will compete for control. If you choose to use InControl 2 first when you access the app you will be warned that InControl 2 is managing your settings already. If you’re unsure which one to use, refer back to the suggested use cases for each one. 

Troubleshooting Issues That May Occur When Using The App or InControl2

If you have managed to configure your router, but you are running into issues with conflicting settings you aren’t sure how to resolve, here are some common issues that you may encounter along with steps to assist you in fixing them. 

The App Shows That My Router Is Registered On InControl 2 And I Cannot Proceed, What Should I Do? 

This message is displayed when the router is already registered inside a group on InControl 2, and the group setting of “Allow managing devices in Peplink App” is set to “No”. To give access rights to the Peplink app, the admin of the group must change the setting to “Yes” first. You can then tap “The setting has been updated” to try again. Follow the steps below to make this change:

Login to your InControl 2 account. From here you will need to navigate to the Group level from your main Organization. In the image below you can see the Organization>Group Name and it shows that you are on the Group Level. 

Hover over the “Settings” Icon and you will see a drop down menu with Group Settings at the bottom, Click this option. You will be brought to a new section and you will need to scroll down to the “Peplink App” section.

I Am Trying To Make Changes To My Router Via The App But My Changes Are Reverting Back To The Previous Settings. What should I do?

This issue is most likely due to settings being applied from InControl 2 first and then trying to alter the settings later from the Peplink app. We recommend accessing the web admin of your router and checking to see if the following message is displayed for your settings on the router.

If you see this message then InControl 2 is currently managing your settings. You will need to login to your InControl 2 account and remove the InControl 2 managed settings and make sure “Allow managing devices in Peplink App” is set to “Yes”

It is important to note that if you are managing settings with InControl 2 and don’t remove the IC2 settings and allow app control you may encounter issues with your Peplink settings.

If you are not seeing that message and are still having issues and are unsure of which steps to take, it may be necessary to disable InControl 2 management entirely from within your router and see if the issue is resolved. You can do this by accessing the Web Admin of your Peplink and navigating to Status>Incontrol 2> and disable Incontrol 2 management.

When in doubt, always double check that your settings aren’t currently being managed somewhere else if you are having trouble applying settings from one of the management options. Of course, if you have purchased your Peplink device directly from 5Gstore you can call our helpful support agents at 833-547-8673 Mon – Fri 9am-6pm Central Daylight Time.

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Transforming Networks with Digi Remote Manager

In the ever-evolving landscape of network management, Digi Remote Manager (Digi RM) stands out as a transformative technology platform that takes networks to the next level, enabling smarter operations for both networks and the individuals tasked with managing them. By seamlessly bringing together a myriad of dispersed Internet of Things (IoT) devices, Digi RM evolves them into a dynamic, intelligent network. 

Features of Digi Remote Manager

1. Effortless Device Management

Digi RM simplifies the configuration, deployment, monitoring, and management of hundreds or even thousands of mission-critical devices from a single point of command. The platform’s exclusive drag-and-drop grouping technology facilitates the auto-assimilation, updating, and deployment of devices with ease.

2. Insightful Dashboard and Reporting

The flexible Digi RM dashboard allows users to customize and position crucial information as needed. Pre-built reports with critical device health metrics can be tailored to include specific data, and alerts can be configured for specified conditions. This allows for a deeper understanding of network performance and facilitates informed decision-making.

3. Security and Compliance

Digi RM ensures an always-on, always-secure network with software-defined protection. It automatically scans and fixes any out-of-compliance device configurations in the group, maintaining the integrity of the network and alerting administrators if key settings deviate.

4. Cloud Integration

Digi RM provides pre-configured APIs that streamline the access, connection, and analysis of data collected from devices. Cloud connectors enable seamless integration with third-party analytics and visualization dashboard applications. For custom integrations, the platform offers a rich web service API.

5. Digi Containers

Digi Containers, an add-on service to Digi Remote Manager, simplifies the deployment of custom applications via containers. These containers streamline the process of building, deploying, and running custom applications on devices managed with Digi RM. Lightweight Linux Containers (LXC) tools enable developers to package custom applications, complete with dependencies, into a portable bundle.

6. WAN Bonding

Digi WAN Bonding combines multiple connections into a resilient connectivity solution, ensuring optimal performance and maximum uptime globally. Features such as Digi SureLink®, policy-based routing, and interface bonding prevent external network failures from causing downtime, providing a robust and reliable network connection.

7. Mobile VPN

Digi Mobile VPN offers a secure connection between data centers and Digi routers, including connected edge devices. Orchestrated through Digi Remote Manager, this service provides persistent, secure connectivity—a crucial feature for applications in public sectors, emergency response, and mass transit.

8. Digi Remote Manager Mobile App

The Digi RM mobile app enhances user convenience by enabling device registration via QR codes. The Configuration Manager feature allows for the automatic application of custom configurations. Users can monitor the overall health of their network and individual device statuses through the app.

5Gstore’s Utilization of Digi Remote Manager

5Gstore harnesses the power of Digi Remote Manager across various aspects of network management.

  • Configuration Management
    • 5Gstore utilizes Digi RM’s Configuration Manager for both individual devices and bulk configurations, streamlining the process of setting up and managing devices across the network.
  • Firmware Management
    • Digi RM facilitates firmware management for 5Gstore, allowing them to update firmware on individual devices or in bulk, ensuring that all devices are running the latest and most secure versions.
  • Monitoring Data Usage
    • Leveraging Digi IntelliFlow, a key feature of Digi Remote Manager, 5Gstore actively monitors data usage via alarms and network traffic visualization tools. This provides actionable insights into the network’s application data, focusing on the top 10 users or destinations.
  • WAN Bonding for Network Redundancy
    • 5Gstore employs Digi WAN Bonding to achieve resilient connectivity and maximum performance across multiple connections. This ensures that our employees’ networks remain robust and operational even in the face of connection failures.

In conclusion, Digi Remote Manager serves as a cornerstone in modern network management, empowering organizations like 5Gstore to achieve efficiency, security, and resilience in their networks. As technology continues to advance, Digi RM remains at the forefront, providing a comprehensive solution for managing the complexities of IoT devices and ensuring the seamless operation of intelligent networks.

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Cradlepoint E100 5G Enterprise Router

Connectivity is the backbone of business operations. The demand for robust, high-performance routers has never been greater. Addressing the specific needs of small offices in various sectors such as retail, business services, clinics, and the public sector, comes the Cradlepoint E100 5G Enterprise Router. This cutting-edge device seamlessly integrates the power of 5G with modern security features through the Cradlepoint NetCloud Exchange (NCX), promising enhanced performance and peace of mind.

Powerful Performance for Small Spaces

Tailored to cater to the connectivity needs of small locations, the E100 5G router ensures that businesses in sectors such as POS, video surveillance, inventory management, and IoT can harness the full potential of their network. The integration of the Qualcomm X62 modem, equipped with the latest 5G standards for 5G NR carrier aggregation, results in superior coverage and performance. This means more bands and combinations, ultimately translating to better 5G service coverage for a variety of applications.

The all-in-one design of the E100 5G router goes beyond connectivity by offering integrated switching and Wi-Fi capabilities. This comprehensive solution is a boon for small sites, providing them with networking, optimization, security, and ease of management – features typically associated with larger, more complex setups.

Security at the Core: Cradlepoint NetCloud Exchange (NCX)

One of the standout features of the E100 5G router is its commitment to modern security. With the integration of Cradlepoint NetCloud Exchange (NCX), the router brings the cutting-edge concept of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) to small businesses. SASE combines modern security with SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Networking) and zero-trust principles to create a secure and optimized network environment.

This means that even the smallest retail pop-ups and shared locations can benefit from top-notch security and optimization. NCX empowers IT teams to provision and manage networks and security at scale with fewer staff, streamlining operations and ensuring that businesses can focus on what they do best.

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Peplink’s Integration with Starlink

With the advent of satellite internet services like Starlink, users are now able to access high-speed internet in remote areas. Peplink, a leader in SD-WAN solutions, has taken a significant step in supporting Starlink connectivity, offering users a robust set of tools to monitor and manage their connection seamlessly.

Monitoring Starlink Dish Status

One of the key advantages of Peplink’s support for Starlink is the ability to easily access crucial dish status information. Through InControl 2, Peplink’s cloud management service, users can gain insights into metrics such as throughput, latency, and obstruction status. This invaluable data empowers users to optimize their internet experience and troubleshoot any potential issues with ease.

Reboot and Stow with a Click

InControl 2 provides a user-friendly interface to reboot and stow your Starlink device effortlessly. No more manual interventions or complex procedures – a simple click through InControl 2 allows you to perform these actions remotely. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to ensure optimal performance or temporarily disable their Starlink connection.

Enabling Access: A Step-by-Step Guide

To harness the full potential of Peplink’s support for Starlink, follow these steps to enable access and view your dish’s data:

  • Web Administration of Peplink Router:
    • Navigate to the Network tab and select WAN on the left.
    • Scroll to the bottom of the page and edit the “Starlink” setting.
  • Pairing Starlink Connection with WAN Source:
    • Pair the Starlink connection with a WAN source on your router.
    • Save and apply the changes.
  • Verification:
    • Once completed, a Starlink logo will appear beside the paired WAN connection.
  • InControl 2 Configuration:
    • Log into InControl 2 and locate the organization and group where your Peplink router is saved.
    • Click on the device to access its details page.
  • Accessing Starlink Details:
    • In the Status section on the right, click “Details” beside your Starlink WAN connection.

By following these steps, you can unlock a wealth of information about your Starlink connection, ensuring you have the necessary tools to maintain and optimize your internet experience.

Conclusion

Peplink’s support for Starlink marks a significant stride in providing users with comprehensive control over their internet connectivity. The ability to monitor throughput, latency, and obstruction status, coupled with the convenience of remote reboot and stow functions, makes Peplink routers an ideal choice for users harnessing the power of Starlink. Embrace the future of satellite internet with Peplink’s innovative solutions, where control and accessibility are just a click away.

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The Strategic Value of Out-of-Band Management Solutions

Maintaining an efficient and secure network infrastructure is paramount for businesses seeking sustainable success. Network disruptions can lead to revenue loss, operational inefficiencies, and eroded customer trust. In response, innovative approaches like out-of-band management have emerged, offering a robust solution to address these challenges. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the realm of out-of-band management, exploring its mechanics, problem-solving prowess, and why the investment in solutions is a strategic decision that yields significant returns.

Decoding Out-of-Band Management

Out-of-band management (OOBM) is a cutting-edge practice that revolves around independently managing network devices separate from the primary network pathway. This ingenious approach empowers IT administrators to access and troubleshoot network components, even when the primary network encounters disruptions. By establishing an alternative avenue for device control, OOBM ensures critical management tasks proceed seamlessly regardless of the network’s operational status.

In other terms, OOBM can be likened to adding a back door to your house that provides a crucial alternative access point in times of need. Just as a back door allows you to enter your house if you’re locked out or the front entrance is inaccessible, OOBM establishes a separate pathway for network administrators to remotely access and manage network devices, even if the primary network is down or facing issues. This ‘back door’ approach ensures that critical management tasks can be performed, configurations adjusted, and troubleshooting executed, safeguarding against extended downtime and maintaining operational continuity. Just as the back door provides a valuable fail-safe option, OOBM serves as a vital lifeline for maintaining network functionality, particularly in critical situations where rapid response is essential.

The Inner Workings of Out-of-Band Management

OOBM operates through distinct communication channels that operate independently of the main network. These channels can include serial connections, cellular networks, or satellite links. By harnessing these supplementary pathways, IT teams gain the capability to remotely access and manage network devices, encompassing routers, switches, and servers.

In practice, when the primary network encounters a setback, administrators can pivot to the out-of-band channel. This maneuver allows them to diagnose and resolve issues, fine-tune configurations, execute software updates, and restore the network to peak functionality.

Addressing Critical Network Issues

  • Mitigated Downtime: The foremost advantage of OOBM lies in its potential to minimize network downtime. By furnishing an independent route for troubleshooting and maintenance, IT teams can swiftly resolve issues even in the absence of a functional primary network. This translates to shorter downtimes, reduced financial losses, and an amplified level of operational continuity.
  • Fortified Security: Cyber threats loom large in the digital landscape. OOBM augments security by maintaining a clear separation between management traffic and the primary network. This isolation thwarts potential attackers from exploiting vulnerabilities during network maintenance, thereby fortifying your network’s defense mechanisms.
  • Simplified Infrastructure: OOBM presents an opportunity to streamline infrastructure by centralizing network management tasks. This consolidation can lead to cost savings and heightened operational efficiency, as IT resources are optimized for more strategic endeavors.
  • Remote Mastery: The geographical dispersion of modern business operations necessitates remote management capabilities. Out-of-band solutions empower IT administrators to oversee widely distributed networks without physical presence. This feature is particularly invaluable for enterprises housing remote offices or branch locations.

Unlocking Strategic Value: Why Invest the Extra Capital?

The decision to invest in OOBM solutions, albeit involving an additional cost, is a calculated move with numerous compelling justifications. We’ve outlined a few below. 

  • Downtime Reduction and Business Continuity: The financial repercussions of network downtime can be staggering. OOBM equips IT teams to swiftly address and rectify issues, ensuring minimal disruptions even in the absence of a functional primary network. This agility translates to shorter downtimes, reduced revenue loss, and heightened business continuity.
  • Expedited Issue Resolution: Traditional troubleshooting methods often entail on-site visits, which are time-intensive and costly. OOBM empowers IT teams to remotely diagnose and resolve issues, expediting issue resolution and bolstering customer satisfaction through consistent service availability.
  • Security Enhancement and Risk Mitigation: Cyber threats pose a substantial risk in the digital realm. Out-of-band management’s isolation of management traffic from the primary network fortifies security by reducing the vulnerability to unauthorized access, data breaches, and malicious attacks. This proactive approach safeguards your business’s reputation and customer trust, potentially circumventing the substantial costs associated with a security breach.
  • Operational Efficiency: OOBM centralizes and simplifies network management, removing the need for intricate on-site infrastructure. This streamlined approach enhances operational efficiency, reduces the necessity for on-site visits, and optimizes IT resources for more strategic initiatives. The resulting efficiency can lead to sustained cost savings and refined resource allocation.
  • Remote Management Competence: In an era where remote work and dispersed teams prevail, the ability to manage network devices from any location is a distinct advantage. OOBM solutions empower administrators to execute tasks remotely, regardless of physical proximity to the affected location. This feature is particularly valuable for enterprises spanning multiple branches, remote offices, or geographically scattered assets.
  • Compliance and Audit Facilitation: Certain industries, such as finance and healthcare, are beholden to stringent regulatory mandates. OOBM solutions offer a structured approach to network management and monitoring, aiding compliance endeavors. The ability to audit and document alterations made to network configurations ensures accountability and enables your business to meet regulatory obligations seamlessly.
  • Future-Proofing: Technological progress is relentless, and your network infrastructure must remain adaptable. Investing in OOBM signifies a forward-looking stance toward network management. As your business expands and integrates new technologies, having a robust out-of-band solution in place positions you to seamlessly assimilate and manage these innovations.

Why Choose 5Gstore Solutions?

  • Cradlepoint: Renowned for its wireless edge solutions, Cradlepoint’s NetCloud Service incorporates a suite of out-of-band management features. This empowers remote configuration, troubleshooting, and software updates. Businesses with expansive operations, such as retail chains or IoT deployments, stand to benefit significantly from Cradlepoint’s offerings.
  • Digi: Digi’s out-of-band management solutions focus on delivering remote access, monitoring, and control capabilities, ensuring that IT administrators can effectively manage their network devices regardless of the status of the primary network. These solutions often leverage cellular connectivity, offering an independent communication channel that is separate from the main network. This approach enables administrators to troubleshoot issues, apply updates, and reconfigure devices even when the primary network is down due to outages, congestion, or security concerns.
  • Inseego: Inseego Connect with OOBM is a remote management solution that provides a high-speed data plane connection and secure management plane simultaneously from a single device. The always-on connection enables IT personnel to securely troubleshoot, adjust, and monitor any network device directly from a user-friendly terminal window within Inseego Connect.
  • Peplink: Acknowledged for its Balance and MAX series routers, Peplink offers advanced out-of-band management capabilities through its InControl 2 cloud-based platform. This platform facilitates remote management and monitoring, configuration adjustments, and resolution of connectivity issues. Peplink’s solutions are particularly valuable for enterprises seeking robust remote management capabilities.
  • Sierra Wireless: A recognized leader in IoT solutions, Sierra Wireless provides out-of-band management capabilities through its AirLink routers and management solutions. These solutions enable remote monitoring, diagnostics, and troubleshooting, ensuring seamless network management even in challenging environments.

What if My Device Doesn’t Support OOBM?

There are alternatives that can provide you some control over your network and other devices when your primary access fails. While a backup connection is still necessary, you may use a device like the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch to remotely reboot power to certain devices. Use either the 2 outlet model connected via Ethernet LAN or our single outlet, which can connect via WiFi. These Switches can either automatically reboot power when your primary Internet connection is dropped, or you may manually control power to it via a secondary Internet connection. For more information, check out our video. 

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