Introduction

Ruckus Wireless ZoneDirector serves as a central control system for Ruckus ZoneFlex Access Points (APs). ZoneDirector provides simplified configuration and updates, wireless LAN security control, RF management, and automatic coordination of Ethernet-connected and mesh-connected APs.

Using ZoneDirector in combination with Ruckus Wireless ZoneFlex APs allows deployment of a Smart Mesh network, to extend wireless coverage throughout a location without having to physically connect each AP to Ethernet. In a Smart Mesh network, the APs form a wireless mesh topology to route client traffic between any member of the mesh and the wired network. Meshing greatly reduces the cost and time requirements of deploying an enterprise-class WLAN, in addition to providing much greater flexibility in AP placement.

ZoneDirector also integrates network, radio frequency (RF), and location management within a single system. User authentication is accomplished with an integrated captive portal and internal database, or forwarded to existing Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (AAA) servers, such as RADIUS or Active Directory. Once users are authenticated, client traffic is not required to pass through ZoneDirector, thereby eliminating bottlenecks when higher speed Wi-Fi technologies such as 802.11n are used.

Since access point failures, WLAN failures, inefficiencies, and delays can cause prolonged outages and cost an enterprise money and reputation, the continuous operation and good health of the Ruckus ZoneDirector is of great importance. To ensure this, eG Enterprise provides a specialized Ruckus ZoneDirector monitoring model.