One of the keys to global Wi-Fi access is an intelligent network that immediately recognizes the best networks, and automatically connects you to them.
As the world of wireless communications becomes more crowded than ever, Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) are constantly having to find ways of differentiating themselves from the competition and attract new customers. One differentiator that’s gaining a lot of attention from both MVNOs and their subscribers is the availability of global Wi-Fi access.
At any moment, billions of devices are accessing Wi-Fi around the world. People expect to be able to connect at any time, no matter where they are, with a minimum of hassle. However, we’ve all experienced Wi-Fi disappointment. Either the network is crowded and slow, it’s not secure enough for your needs, or you (gasp) have to pay to access the network. And as the Internet of Things gains traction, and more devices take up residence on Wi-Fi networks, issues with bandwidth availability and speed are only likely to continue.
There is a solution, though. By embedding global Wi-Fi access into your product offerings, allowing customers using your network to access Wi-Fi from virtually anywhere in the world, you can ensure that they have the reliable, secure, and convenient Wi-Fi that they demand.
Intelligent networks mean more productivity, better security
One of the keys to success with global Wi-Fi access is an intelligent network that immediately recognizes the best nearby networks, and automatically connects you to them. Essentially, an intelligent network takes the guesswork out of finding a decent Wi-Fi connection, and becomes an extension of the mobile service.
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Why does this matter? Well, for starters, business travelers and remote workers generally need reliable Wi-Fi access in order to be productive while on the road. And if their companies use high-bandwidth, cloud-based services like marketing automation, CRM, file sharing or data analytics software, the typical public Wi-Fi hotspot or pay-as-you go network is inadequate for getting any work done.
Most of these networks are crowded to begin with, which slows down the service, and many put limits on the amount of data that an individual device can transmit in any period. In either case, travelers are likely to get frustrated, and lose time waiting for slow connections or data transfers.
And that’s not even getting into security. The fact is that most free Wi-Fi hotspots are not secure. Hackers actively target hotel Wi-Fi, in particular, exploiting the hotel Wi-Fi’s vulnerabilities to gain access to the network, and then conducting elaborate phishing scams to trick guests into downloading malware.
While many of these attacks were initially directed at high value targets such as politicians and executive business travelers, security experts warn that all hotel guests using free Wi-Fi could be at risk. By using a global Wi-Fi access embedded in a mobile device, travelers can securely access VPNs and send and receive data more securely, reducing the risk of a data breach spurred by accessing free Wi-Fi.
How Intelligent networks meet consumer Expectations
Business travelers aren’t the only ones who can benefit from global Wi-Fi access, though. The growth of the IoT means that more individuals are using their mobile devices to remotely manage day-to-day activities in their home or office.
For instance, many consumers who have smart refrigerators remotely connect to the appliances while at the grocery store to access a shopping list or scan for needed items. Some grocery stores offer free Wi-Fi — but again, there are security concerns, especially when you’re accessing a device on your Wi-Fi network, as a hacker could potentially access private information that allows him to infect other devices on your network. The other option is to use cellular service to connect to the refrigerator, but that’s not always a great option either. Consumers are often reluctant to use up their data allowances, and again, the connection isn’t always as reliable or fast as Wi-Fi.
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An intelligent network with global Wi-Fi access solves both of these problems, giving consumers the option of accessing their IoT devices from wherever they happen to be, offering peace of mind and convenience.
Global Wi-Fi access is quickly becoming a must-have for both business travelers and consumers who want reliable, cost-effective, and secure Wi-Fi wherever they happen to be. For travelers, the ability to access any one of thousands of hotspots automatically is attractive, as it eliminates the need to put financial details at risk using pay-as-you go services or use unsecured public Wi-Fi. For consumers, it’s more a matter of convenience, especially in the age of the IoT. In either case, MVNOs are well-served to differentiate themselves by including this sought-after feature.
