AV installers and businesses gain access to a free and easy-to-use platform that streamlines the management of complex networks.
NETGEAR, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTGR), a leading provider of innovative and secure networking devices, has announced the launch of Engage 2.0 – a significant upgrade to the powerful platform designed to simplify the management of audiovisual (AV) networks. NETGEAR Engage 2.0 is free and available for download starting today.
Increasing complexity in AV networks
The intertwining of AV and IT environments and the resurgence of large and mobile events continue to change the way AV systems are used. AV over IP adds complexity to commercial, broadcast and private installations when it comes to managing Ethernet switches, routers and WiFi access points. For example, discovering Ethernet switches and access points installed on a network requires a lot of manual effort. Also, updating firmware on multiple devices is time-consuming, and it can be difficult to set up an AV network correctly, especially when a wrong setup can ruin the entire AV experience.
A unified platform for central administration
In light of these challenges, a powerful central management system is essential. The new NETGEAR Engage 2.0 therefore offers one centralized and user-friendly way to manage AV networks. By bringing together AV network, router and WiFi control in one platform, users get a more clear and user-friendly configuration and management of any network installation.
“With nearly three decades of leadership in networking technology, we are constantly innovating to simplify AV and WiFi connections and provide a more seamless management experience. The new Engage 2.0 software delivers comprehensive, unified control capabilities for even the most complex AV network installations,” said Laurent Masia, Senior Director of Product Line Management, Managed Switches, at NETGEAR.
Effective control and overview
Engage 2.0 enables effortless WiFi control of AV installations with touchscreens and tablets connecting to ad-hoc wireless networks, improving control of AV endpoints across VLANs. For large events, the platform allows installers to create temporary WiFi guest networks, for example mobile production companies and production teams, so that everyone has access to a solid WiFi network and can be connected at all times. For AV professionals, the flexibility of the Engage 2.0 software makes it possible to manage both AV implementations as well as to keep an overview of the home’s WiFi network through a unified platform.
Key features of Engage 2.0:
- Freedom for AV and lighting crews: Allows technicians to connect to the AV network wirelessly and thus avoid being tied to the rack. This flexibility supports the integration of other AV and lighting control software packages that can now connect via WiFi to the wired network.
- Unified management of the cable and wireless infrastructure: Seamlessly integrates wired and wireless infrastructure so NETGEAR AV switches, pro routers and WiFi access points can be configured with Engage profiles. Key features include Auto-Trunk, Fast Roaming and cross-profile mDNS reflector/gateway.
- Control over LAN and WLAN: Engage 2.0 firmware introduces advanced WiFi management to NETGEAR AV installations with support for WiFi association to profiles/VLANs, Auto-Trunk and Instant Mesh for simpler setup.
- Auto-discovery and onboarding: Automatically detects all NETGEAR AV M4250, M4300, M4350 and M4500 series switches and supports one PR460X Pro Router and up to 10 WBE758/WBE718 WiFi 7 access points per setup.
- Setup without configuration: Auto-trunking on switches where access points are connected ensures trouble-free integration and ease of use.
- Fast Roaming and Auto-Mesh support: Utilizes protocols such as OKC, 802.11r, 802.11k and 802.11v for optimal performance and connectivity.
Read more about Engage 2.0 at .
Om NETGEAR, Inc.
Founded in 1996 and headquartered in the United States, NETGEAR (NASDAQ: NTGR) is a global leader in innovative networking technologies for businesses, homes and service providers. NETGEAR delivers a wide range of award-winning, intelligent solutions designed to harness the full potential of connectivity and create extraordinary experiences. For businesses, NETGEAR offers reliable, easy-to-use and high-performance networking solutions, including switches, routers, access points, software and AV over IP technologies, tailored to meet the diverse needs of organizations. NETGEAR’s Connected Home products deliver advanced connections, powerful performance and enhanced security features right out of the box, designed to keep families safe online, whether at home or on the go. Additional information is available in the NETGEAR press room or by calling (408) 907-8000. Follow NETGEAR on X, Facebook, Instagram and The NETGEAR Blog on NETGEAR.com.
Source: it-kanalen.dk
