Featuring: Martin Hahmann, mobile and wireless networking specialist
Companies are constantly evaluating their network infrastructure in a time when connectivity is paramount. With wireless technology developing quickly and offering both previously unheard-of opportunities and difficult challenges, the long-standing argument between wireless and wired networks has taken on new dimensions. We spoke with Martin Hahmann, a seasoned specialist in mobile and wireless networking, to gain insight into this ever-changing landscape. His insights assist companies to plan for the future.
Martin highlights that the challenges in wireless networking are growing increasingly complex. At the heart of this complexity lie the two primary frequency bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
"The 2.4GHz band is the most widely adopted," Martin explains, supporting everything from smartphones to home automation systems. However, its widespread use has led to significant congestion. He vividly illustrates this with an analogy: "Imagine a boardroom or a classroom where, traditionally, only a few people were speaking and listening to the main presenter (analogous to the access point, or AP). As more people enter the room and start talking simultaneously, it becomes increasingly difficult to hear the original conversation—this is the exact scenario on the 2.4GHz band: it becomes overcrowded."
To combat this, the 5GHz band was introduced several years ago, acting as a separate, less-interfered communication channel. "If we continue with the previous analogy, it’s as though English speakers are in one part of the room and French speakers in another—each group understands their own language clearly without interference," Martin elaborates. While 5GHz offers higher bandwidth and faster data transfer, it comes with its own set of challenges: a significantly shorter signal range. This means more access points are required, increasing both complexity and cost, especially in large retail or enterprise environments.
With even less interference and more scalability promised, new technologies are already investigating 6GHz and 7GHz channels. These are still in their development, therefore it will take some time for Wi-Fi standards to be fully adopted. Martin claims that the sheer number of wireless devices being added to networks, ranging from environmental sensors and surveillance cameras to biometric readers and access control systems, is the biggest problem of our time. Existing network capacity and infrastructure are severely strained by this influx, demanding rock-solid, end-to-end technology solutions you can count on
Over the past five years, the evolution of mobile and wireless networks in enterprise environments has been significant. The 5GHz band, once primarily a corporate staple, has now permeated residential settings, offering home users enhanced performance. Yet, a curious lag persists: many consumer-grade smart devices, from automated lighting to robotic vacuum cleaners, still operate exclusively on 2.4GHz, highlighting a disconnect between consumer tech and enterprise-grade infrastructure.
On the enterprise front, the shift towards 5GHz is steady, with growing interest in integrating the newer 6GHz and 7GHz frequencies. With promises of decreased interference, enhanced performance, and increased scalability for enterprise deployments, these developments are set to usher in the next stage of wireless evolution. This gradual enhancement is entirely consistent with CGTech's dedication to leading innovation and providing solutions that push the limits of technology.
The most critical differentiator between a high-performing wireless network and a poorly designed one, particularly in demanding enterprise environments like retail or manufacturing, lies in the network design itself, with a paramount emphasis on Access Point (AP) placement.
"AP placement within a shop, office, or factory environment is absolutely vital," Martin stresses. This isn't a guesswork operation; it's meticulously determined through a professional wireless site survey. CGTech engineers, armed with specialized devices, physically walk the premises, measuring signal strength and identifying potential performance gaps. These readings then dictate the optimal physical locations for mounting APs to ensure maximum coverage and performance.
Another crucial factor is the type of equipment. Consumer-grade APs, readily available in retail stores, are simply not built to withstand the rigors of enterprise demands. Imagine a distribution centre where high-performance barcode scanners process hundreds of thousands of items daily – consumer-level devices would buckle under such pressure. In these scenarios, enterprise-grade equipment from reputable brands is non-negotiable. While it comes at a higher cost, it delivers the stability, control, and scalability essential for seamless business operations. Ideally, such robust networks are managed via a centralized or cloud-based controller, enabling effortless configuration, monitoring, and optimization across all APs.
In summary, a high-performing wireless network is characterized by:
Conversely, a poorly designed network often relies on inadequate consumer-grade equipment, haphazardly placed APs, and a glaring absence of network intelligence. The result? Weak coverage, pervasive interference, and frustratingly inconsistent performance. At CGTech, we are obsessed with YOU, not one platform, ensuring that your network is meticulously designed to meet your unique operational needs.
When it comes to cutting-edge technologies, Martin expresses excitement for Wi-Fi 7. Building upon the foundations of Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, Wi-Fi 7 promises further enhancements in speed and performance. A key innovation lies in the introduction of new frequency bands, offering more spectrum for data transmission and alleviating congestion on existing 2.4GHz and 5GHz channels.
Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 also leverage advanced technologies like MU-MIMO (Multi-User, Multiple Input, Multiple Output), which enables simultaneous transmission and reception of multiple signals. This is why many enterprise-grade access points now boast multiple antennas – four, eight, or even more – working in concert to boost throughput and improve frequency modulation, ultimately leading to faster, more reliable wireless communication.
As for 5G, Martin clarifies its role. While offering incredibly high speeds and low latency, 5G primarily serves mobile operators and LTE-based environments. Its application is more prevalent in public or telecom-based infrastructures rather than in-store or typical enterprise Wi-Fi networks. This distinction is crucial for businesses planning their network strategies.
Martin points out several prevalent misconceptions businesses often harbour when planning a wireless or mobile-first strategy. A significant one is the belief that wireless technology is inherently unreliable or overly complex for enterprise environments. Many organizations base this assumption on past negative experiences with poorly implemented systems or consumer-level technology.
Another challenge is the perceived difficulty in troubleshooting wireless networks compared to wired solutions. "Unlike physical cables, you can’t visually trace a wireless signal or easily detect interference," Martin notes. This can lead to the erroneous assumption that all network issues stem from the wireless infrastructure.
Perhaps the most overlooked aspect, however, is the critical importance of accurate planning. "Proper site surveys, strategic AP placement, and selecting the correct type of access point are crucial. It’s not simply a matter of choosing the most expensive device," he emphasizes. For instance, Cisco offers a diverse range of access points tailored to different environments: a directional antenna is ideal for long aisles, guiding the signal down a specific path, while an omnidirectional antenna is better suited for open spaces like conference rooms where signal needs to propagate in all directions.
Ultimately, the misconception lies in underestimating the technical strategy behind a successful wireless deployment. Proper planning, appropriate hardware selection, and a clear understanding of signal behaviour are what truly differentiate a robust wireless network from a subpar one. At CGTech, we don’t just ‘DO’, we project manage, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned for your success.
Martin shares compelling real-world experiences that underscore the complexities and triumphs of wireless deployments.
One of Martin’s most impactful projects involved the early implementation of wireless infrastructure at our earliest clients. In 2008, wireless networking was still a nascent concept in enterprise retail. This store then relied on cumbersome cabled scanners for inventory management, a setup prone to hazards and operational disruptions, especially in dynamic environments like loading bays.
CGTech designed and installed a tailored wireless solution, initially focusing on warehouse scanners. "Interestingly, some of the original access points (APs) deployed during that rollout are still operational today, discreetly installed in the ceilings—testament to the long-term durability and design foresight of the implementation," Martin proudly states. This project not only streamlined the stores operations but also laid the groundwork for modern wireless retail environments where mobility and real-time data capture are essential.
Network performance degradation is a routine challenge, and Martin recounts a notable case at a distribution centre where, despite APs appearing online, staff experienced extremely poor wireless performance. The culprit? Environmental factors. Products stacked to the ceiling, particularly liquids like soft drinks, water, and milk, absorbed radio signals, significantly weakening coverage. Similarly, materials like toilet paper and bedding created dead zones due to their signal-dampening properties.
Another surprisingly frequent issue arises in canteen or break areas. A sudden drop in wireless performance during lunchtime often points to microwave ovens, which operate on the 2.4GHz frequency, causing significant interference. These examples highlight that even technically functional systems can suffer without proper client education and continuous site audits.
For rapidly growing clients, future-proofing the wireless infrastructure is paramount. Martin advocates partnering with industry leaders like Cisco and Aruba, whose solutions are built with scalability in mind. Their wireless controllers typically offer license-based expansion, allowing businesses to pay only for the capacity they need. As a business grows, they can easily scale by adding APs, upgrading to higher-performance models, and expanding controller licenses without a complete infrastructure overhaul. This approach ensures high performance, minimal downtime, and simplified management at scale, reflecting CGTech’s commitment to limitless possibilities.
Wireless networks, while offering unparalleled flexibility, introduce unique security risks. Martin highlights one of the most prominent: Man-in-the-Middle attacks. He points out the vulnerability of Pre-Shared Keys (PSKs), especially when mishandled. "If anyone gains access to that PSK — which, believe it or not, we've seen written on stickers stuck to laptops — they could connect from virtually anywhere in the building, even the parking lot. This represents a major vulnerability."
To mitigate such risks, CGTech recommends several strategies. While MAC address filtering in conjunction with PSK offers an initial layer of security by whitelisting authorized devices, the gold standard is upgrading to WPA2-Enterprise. This requires users to authenticate with their Active Directory (AD) credentials, validated through both AD and Cisco ISE, ensuring only authorized users gain access. Furthermore, certificate-based authentication can be deployed, where devices are issued digital certificates tied to the user’s account, further strengthening the authentication process. These practical strategies effectively mitigate wireless security risks without compromising user experience, embodying CGTech’s dedication to unwavering quality.
Martin outlines the non-negotiable tools in CGTech’s wireless network toolkit, cantered around Cisco technology. The Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) manages and monitors all Access Points, providing basic diagnostics. For deeper analytics and packet capture, Cisco DNA Centre (now Catalyst Centre) offers insights into client-side issues, helping diagnose problems stemming from outdated drivers or unsupported devices.
Third-party tools like Fluke Networks’ wireless probes are deployed on-site to monitor live wireless traffic, while even mobile-based wireless analyser apps can assist with straightforward assessments. While remote diagnostics are often the first step, many advanced troubleshooting processes necessitate on-site presence, with CGTech engineers equipped with comprehensive toolkits.
Martin’s Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) qualification in Wireless has profoundly shaped his approach. This training emphasized the critical importance of AP placement and selecting the correct antenna type for different environments. For instance, in low-ceiling office environments, APs are often mounted without external antennas, not just for aesthetics but because high-gain antennas are unnecessary in such confined spaces. This expertise ensures every deployment is optimized for its specific use case, reflecting CGTech’s confident and expert approach.
CGTech’s wireless site survey process is a precision-engineered endeavour led by certified engineers. It involves on-site signal mapping and environment profiling, differentiating between use-case scenarios like retail, education, or manufacturing. In retail, variables include shelf layouts, material types (e.g., metal or liquid stock affecting signal propagation), expected occupancy, and device types. In high-density environments like college campuses, capacity planning for concurrent video streaming and device saturation is paramount. Each deployment is meticulously tailored to the intended business function and user experience, ensuring the infrastructure is robust and future ready.
While there’s accelerating momentum towards wireless-first networks, a fully wireless enterprise environment remains aspirational. Martin explains that core enterprise operations still rely on fibre or high throughput wired backbones for reliability, speed, and redundancy. Furthermore, while wireless security continues to evolve, wired infrastructure maintains a security edge, especially for mission-critical systems.
The shift CGTech foresees is a hybrid by design: high-capacity wireless access built atop a resilient wired core. This approach enables agile last-mile delivery without sacrificing backbone integrity, embodying CGTech’s forward-thinking vision.
AI and automation are rapidly redefining wireless experiences. Modern smartphones already leverage AI to auto-select optimal network bands, adapt to usage patterns for seamless handover, and optimize performance based on historical connectivity. Looking ahead, Martin believes AI-driven network orchestration and self-healing capabilities will play a central role in enterprise-grade wireless deployments, driving efficiency, uptime, and user satisfaction. This aligns with CGTech’s commitment to progressive improvement and staying ahead of the curve.
What truly distinguishes CGTech in the mobile and wireless networking space is its deep bench of certified expertise. From NOC Level 1 to Level 3 engineers and even at the executive level, CGTech offers:
This powerful combination of technical mastery and a customer-centric deployment philosophy sets CGTech apart in a competitive landscape, showcasing their driven and purposeful approach.
For businesses still anchored in legacy network models, CGTech advocates a progressive migration strategy. This isn't just about adopting new technology; it's about realizing tangible benefits:
Martin finds continuous inspiration in the rapid evolution of wireless technology. "From Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 7, we've seen leaps in streaming quality, speed, and reliability," he enthuses. The transition from cable-dependent systems to multi-AP wireless ecosystems, both at home and in enterprise, powerfully showcases the transformative potential of wireless tech. It's this relentless pace of innovation and the competitive drive among industry leaders like Cisco, Aruba, and Juniper that keeps him and the CGTech team inspired and future focused.
One of the most underestimated yet disruptive trends in wireless, according to Martin, is hyper location technology. By analysing device connectivity within physical spaces, particularly in retail, brands can:
While data privacy remains a crucial consideration (governed by regulations like POPIA), ethical data utilization paired with opt-in strategies can create a hyper-personalized shopping experience that benefits both customers and retailers.
The transition from wired-first to wireless-integrated networks is a strategic evolution rather than just a technical advancement. The contemporary network environment necessitates a sophisticated comprehension of changing frequencies, strategic design, and strong security measures, as demonstrated by Martin Hahmann's observations. Wireless is no longer unreliable thanks to a complex ecosystem that, when used correctly, provides unmatched scalability, flexibility, and efficiency.
CGTech has been leading this shift through providing not only solutions but also a partnership built on in-depth expertise, real-world experience, and an inventive mindset. By embracing the hybrid networking of the future, businesses can enter new markets and create countless opportunities.
Are you ready to innovate and transform the network infrastructure of your business? To understand more about our targeted wireless solutions and how we could assist you to conquer the challenges of the modern digital world, explore our website further. You can also get in touch with our team at info@cgtech.co.za to begin transforming your business right now. Together, we can create a future in which your success is facilitated by connectivity.
If you’re planning a wireless upgrade or moving towards a wireless-first experience, the safest first step is a proper assessment and site survey. If you’d like a second set of eyes on your environment, get in touch with the CGTech team and we’ll help you map the best path forward.
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