Wireless Infrastructure Modernization for Air lines by COMnet Solutions

MAJOR ISSUES

Client was facing critical challenges in its wireless infrastructure, which prompted the need for a next-generation Wi-Fi solution:

• Aging Access Infrastructure: Existing wireless setup could not support modern high-density usage or high-bandwidth applications.
• Limited Management Capabilities: Lack of centralized management made scaling and monitoring cumbersome.
• Inadequate Support for Modern Workforce: Remote connectivity and hybrid workforce demands were not efficiently addressed.
• IoT Expansion Readiness: Infrastructure was not capable of supporting growing IoT integration needs.
• Power Constraints: Sites with limited power availability needed intelligent power management for uninterrupted performance.

IMPACT

The deployment of Aruba’s next-gen AP655 solution brought substantial benefits:

• Improved Network Performance: 7.8 Gbps aggregate peak data rate ensured seamless connectivity for users and devices.
• Enhanced Scalability and Manageability: Aruba Central allowed cloud-native management, easing expansion and real-time monitoring.
• Empowered Hybrid Workforces: Remote connectivity was optimized to support mobile and remote staff securely.
• Ready for IoT: New capabilities enabled integration with future IoT-driven operations.
• Reduced Latency in Dense Environments: Multi-user efficiency features ensured high performance even in congested areas.

HIGHLIGHTS

Proposed Solution:

• Aruba AP655 with tri-radio setup (6GHz, 5GHz, 2.4GHz) for high throughput and efficiency.
• Aruba Central for unified Wi-Fi and SD-WAN architecture.
• ClearPass for secure authentication and user access control.
• Intelligent Power Monitoring (IPM) for optimal performance on limited power budgets.

Use Cases Addressed:

• Centralized cloud management of access points.
• SSID creation for segmented user groups (e.g., Corp, Guest).
• Heatmap-based AP placement validation.
• Radio frequency optimization for 5GHz prioritization.
• Secure user access to intranet and internet via ClearPass.

Architecture and Deployment Scope:

• Designed for scalability to meet enterprise-wide needs.
• Aligns with Air India’s cloud-first strategy.
• Remote sites seamlessly connected to the enterprise network.

KEY STRATEGIES

• Future-Proofing Through Advanced APs: Selection of Aruba AP655 ensures the network supports future demands with Wi-Fi 6E readiness and tri-band support.

• Unified Cloud-Based Management: Aruba Central was deployed to centralize policy enforcement, analytics, and device management across locations.

• Security and Identity Integration: ClearPass NAC enabled identity-driven access for different user profiles ensuring role-based policies.

• Hybrid Workforce Enablement: Focused on remote connectivity features that streamline IT management while ensuring secure and consistent user experiences.

• Optimized Power and Performance: The deployment made use of IPM to ensure robust performance even in sites where power resources are constrained.