As enterprises navigate the complexities of modern connectivity technologies, the conversation has shifted from choosing between Wi-Fi and 5G to understanding how to combine their strengths for optimal performance.

For years, there were predictions that 4G/5G would eventually replace Wi-Fi, or vice versa. However, new insights show that these technologies work best together. A survey by ZK Research and CommScope reveals that many businesses are already leveraging both Wi-Fi and private 4G/5G networks to maximize their advantages.

The survey, which covered 402 enterprises, found that more than 85% of companies have already deployed or plan to deploy a combination of Wi-Fi, private 4G/5G networks, and wired network upgrades. Specifically, 86% of enterprises have deployed or plan to deploy Wi-Fi 6/6E/7, while 92% have already deployed or plan to deploy private mobile networks.

This strategic integration raises a key question: How can companies protect each network while benefiting from unified control and policies? Let’s break down the differences and advantages of both technologies.

Wi-Fi Security

Wi-Fi security has come a long way, offering robust protections that make it a trusted choice for enterprise network integration with security architectures. Key features include:

• Network Access Control (NAC): Wi-Fi networks offer powerful user authentication methods, including multi-factor authentication (MFA), tailored to business needs. NAC ensures flexible security measures, enhancing protection and segmentation.
• Certificate-based Authentication (802.1X): This adds an extra layer of security by requiring devices to authenticate with certificates before accessing the network, reducing unauthorized access risks.

Private 5G Security

Enterprise 5G also offers comprehensive security features to address traditional infrastructure vulnerabilities. Key benefits include:

• Advanced Device Authentication Using SIM/eSIM: 5G’s SIM-based authentication ensures only authorized devices can access the network, enhancing security.
• End-to-End Security Framework: 5G provides air encryption and secure signaling, ensuring that data transfers are protected from interception or tampering.
• Support for Virtual Mobile Zones (VMZ): This allows for network segmentation, ideal for IT/OT networks, increasing resilience and security in critical environments.

Integrating Wi-Fi and 5G: Key to Enhancing Wireless Security and Performance

The true power of modern wireless networks lies in the seamless integration of Wi-Fi and 5G, combining their strengths for superior connectivity. By viewing these technologies as complementary rather than competitors, enterprises can unlock numerous benefits, especially in security control and policy management.

By integrating Wi-Fi and 5G with enterprise security systems such as firewalls and SIEM, companies can ensure consistent security measures across all access points. Other advantages include:

• Seamless Integration with MDM Platforms: Combining Wi-Fi and 5G with mobile device management (MDM) platforms allows enterprises to manage device access effectively, ensuring compliance with security policies and reducing vulnerability.
• Increased Reliability and Scalability: While Wi-Fi offers reliable coverage for indoor environments, 5G excels in large-scale outdoor or mixed environments. Integrating these technologies provides consistent connectivity across diverse use cases, essential for modern workloads such as autonomous vehicles and industrial robots.
• Adapting to Complex Network Needs: As enterprises grow, network demands become more complex. Wi-Fi and 5G integration helps address these challenges by offering a scalable solution that supports diverse devices and use cases without compromising coverage, cost, or performance.

Building a More Secure and Efficient Network Environment

In conclusion, integrating Wi-Fi and 5G offers enterprises a powerful solution for modern wireless connectivity. By combining their strengths and aligning them with enterprise security controls, businesses can build a secure, reliable, and scalable network capable of meeting future demands, fostering innovation, and driving success.

Translation source: Integrating Wi-Fi and 5G—A unified approach for better security and performance (telecomstechnews.com)