Viewpoints
By: Ilan Eframian, Vice President, Xfinity Communities
Before choosing between bulk internet and managed Wi-Fi, it is best to have a full understanding of each offering. Regardless of the choice, there is a tailored solution for properties of all sizes.
Multifamily management, like any industry, is expected to modernize in a time when budgets can be tight. While units – from a college dorm, a large apartment complex, or an assisted living facility – might be easy to fill, residents’ expectations are becoming harder to meet – especially when it comes to offering the latest technology. From management to residents, connectivity is no longer an amenity, it is a must-have. Most property owners do not have the time or expertise to revamp building network infrastructure, which is why partnering with a knowledgeable connectivity provider that can find tailored solutions is so important.
According to research by Parks Associates, which was recently featured in a Broadband Communities article, 71 percent of renters find the immediate availability of Wi-Fi or internet upon move-in to be important or very important. To satisfy this demand, property owners are turning to bulk internet and property-wide managed Wi-Fi. Bulk internet or managed Wi-Fi services can strengthen a property’s technological infrastructure while becoming a more competitive option for potential prospective residents. Before choosing between bulk internet and managed Wi-Fi, it is best to have a full understanding of each offering. Regardless of the choice, there is a tailored solution for properties of all sizes.
The benefits of bulk internet
Upgrading facilities can be an expensive and time-consuming process, but property owners face a competitive residential market. Similar to managed Wi-Fi, providing bulk internet is a cost-effective investment in future-ready technology, which is a consistent way to attract new residents and keep current residents happy. Both bulk internet and managed Wi-Fi are attractive options for existing properties. However, it is important to note that implementing bulk internet typically requires less construction compared to deploying managed Wi-Fi.
While some multifamily owners allow their residents to set up their own internet, one of the benefits to bulk internet is the strong network infrastructure it provides. The ability to offer potential residents opportunities to stream sporting events, movies during the holiday season, and various political events could be a draw for those who do not subscribe to a traditional cable video package.
The benefits of managed Wi-Fi
Managed Wi-Fi is a more expansive offering for property owners to consider. While bulk internet provides service in the individual unit, managed Wi-Fi ensures property-wide connectivity, from the unit to the pool. One differentiating feature of managed Wi-Fi as opposed to bulk internet is the presence of a 24/7 team proactively monitoring the network. If there is an issue with bandwidth or connection, at any hour, the provider will be able to spot and address the issue proactively – leaving management without the worry of an unreliable network.
With managed Wi-Fi, both residents and staff will have an equipment-free experience, with no hassle of ordering, installing, or managing a Gateway. For busy residents, the convenience of having their internet up and running without the hassle of managing an extra bill or keeping a service updated can be a significant draw, similar to the appeal of bulk internet.
With so many residents now working from home, the addition of managed Wi-Fi allows for flexibility in places to work around the property. Encouraging residents to use common areas for a change of scenery, or to host a “coffee and work” networking event, are different examples of ways to leverage these offerings while creating a low effort, but still meaningful, draw to residents. Because managed Wi-Fi encompasses, typically, an entire property, it can require more of an upfront investment, but the technology can prepare your property for the future connectivity needs of residents. This option is ideal for new builds, but can also be deployed to existing communities as well.
Finding the right fit
Now that the difference between managed Wi-Fi and bulk internet has been outlined, how does a business know which is the right choice?
Engaging in a bulk Internet agreement for a residential building is an attractive option for many property owners and building managers because of the resident-specific perks that it offers. With the ability to embed the cost into an already existing fee like rent or utilities, it is an easily added solution to any residential internet plan.
For properties with a variety of services, such as college campuses, health facilities, and assisted living facilities, managed Wi-Fi has the range and capabilities to serve customers, visitors, and employees across the property, without interruption.
However, a trusted internet service provider should be able to assist any property in choosing the perfect plan, whether it be managed Wi-Fi or bulk internet.
Looking for a provider
When conducting research on a potential service provider, it’s critical to confirm credibility,
reliability, and cost.
A key way to spot credibility is when a provider owns their own network. An internet experience that is owned end-to-end by one provider can provide fewer technical support challenges – and can create less confusion about where a challenge originated. A provider-owned network means there is one number to call if something goes wrong, and there is more time dedicated to solving the problem as soon as possible.
With timing in mind, finding a provider that offers 24/7 support is necessary. Internet usage does not clock out at the end of the workday – and neither should support options. Providers that are able to solve internet issues at any hour are the only option for keeping a solid connection.
Making sure a provider is consistently monitoring their customer’s bandwidth and connection to ensure that they are receiving top-notch service is a clear sign that the provider is a great choice for your property’s connectivity needs.
In conclusion …
A strong network foundation is no longer considered a nice-to-have addition to residents and property owners, it is considered a must-have. By investing in bulk internet or managed Wi-Fi services, multifamily properties are investing in their current – and future – residents.
