Rob Haviland continues his discussion of the HP Wi-Fi product line

In this presentation, Rob Haviland elaborates on HP Networking’s Wi-Fi product lineup, introducing specific hardware and features that cater to the diverse needs of different market segments. He begins by highlighting the omnidirectional antenna suited for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, emphasizing the importance of external antennas for specific products such as the 466 indoor access point. Haviland points out potential misunderstandings from customers regarding the necessity of ordering these antennas, stressing that proper training in ordering processes is crucial. He also showcases the MSM 720 controller, a new addition aimed at servicing the mid-sized market efficiently, which includes support for up to 40 access points and a flexible deployment model.

As Haviland continues, he explains the hardware capabilities of the MSM 720 product, detailing its dual radio functionality and the ability to integrate with various components through advanced networking features such as LACP (Link Aggregation Control Protocol). This controller is positioned to function seamlessly within HP’s Flex Network Architecture, emphasizing a cohesive management experience for both wired and wireless networks. The presentation delves into licensing models and how HP’s approach minimizes the burden on customers, allowing them to purchase licenses in smaller increments, thereby serving smaller clients without requiring them to pay for excess capacity.

Haviland concludes by addressing the issue of mobility within HP’s wireless products, explaining the differentiation between access controllers and premium mobility controllers. The latter is equipped with advanced features such as layer 3 roaming, which does not come with the standard access controller without additional licensing. Throughout the discussion, there is an emphasis on HP’s commitment to innovation within a framework of industry standards, illustrating how the company manages to balance customer needs, licensing strategies, and product functionality within its networking solutions. The interactive session highlights customer queries related to the deployment, capabilities, and licensing approaches of HP Networking’s offerings, fostering an engaging environment that underscores the importance of customer insight in shaping product development.