Zebra Technologies is integrating advanced connectivity tools into its mobile devices and printers, including an industry-first mobile printer with Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, to meet the demands of modern businesses.
The shift from Wi-Fi 5 to 6 is likely to be triggered by external factors like cybersecurity breaches or RFID tagging requirements. Wi-Fi 6 offers stronger data protection and devices capable of printing RFID labels on the go.
The recent launch of Zebra’s ZQ630 Plus Series mobile printer, equipped with Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, emphasises the need for secure, mobile, and high-functioning tools in today’s connected work environment.
- Zebra Technologies is incorporating the latest connectivity tools, including Wi-Fi 6, into its mobile devices and printers to meet the needs of businesses.
- Upgrading devices and printers with 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity is necessary for businesses to ensure security and performance.
- Having appropriate printers connected to a wireless network is crucial for data security and overall network performance.
Breaking Down Silos: The Future of Connectivity
The age of isolated data and workflows has come to an end. In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world, the equipment that front-line workers depend on daily must be more than just stand-alone devices: they need to be user-friendly, accessible, mobile, secure, and packed with a variety of practical features.
The Push for Wi-Fi 6 Adoption
As the technology landscape evolves, businesses are not necessarily enticed to upgrade their devices and printers merely because new tech is available. After all, quality hardware can last for years. However, external factors such as cybersecurity threats or a requirement for radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging might be the catalysts that push companies to transition from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6.
What Does Multi-Connectivity Look Like?
In this emerging era, businesses will need to upgrade to printers and mobile devices equipped with 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. Maybe a stronger, more secure workflow is required, and a Wi-Fi 6 device connected to a Wi-Fi 6 network offers the strongest data security. Or perhaps there is a need for a mobile printer capable of producing RFID labels on the go, which also necessitates Wi-Fi 6 compatibility for optimal performance and security.
Modern Connectivity Tools for Front-Line Workers
Modern devices and printers require the latest and most effective tools. This includes devices with 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, near-field communication, Bluetooth, and those capable of performing high-quality RFID reading. For mobile printers, this entails the ability to print 1D and 2D barcode labels alongside RFID tags, provide optimal security, and even support Wi-Fi 6.
The Cybersecurity Risks of Printers
Wi-Fi 5 devices can function on a Wi-Fi 6 network and vice versa, but businesses will not reap the full benefits of a Wi-Fi 6 network without Wi-Fi 6 devices. Cybersecurity concerns have been a significant driver pushing businesses towards the adoption of Wi-Fi 6.
“A European business recently moved to Wi-Fi 6 quite quickly after experiencing a devastating cybersecurity incident on an older network,” said Richard Barfield, Printing Specialist, EMEA, Zebra Technologies. “After speaking with several experts, the business leaders realised without Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to their new Wi-Fi 6 network, there were more vulnerabilities than they could tolerate in their upgraded wireless environment.”
The Increasing Importance of Connected Devices
The number of devices that require connection to a workplace network is increasing, and maintaining mobility and coverage wherever workers are, is crucial. This necessitates a sufficient number of access points. In scenarios where a high density of connected devices relies on the same access point, businesses using older technology may face performance issues. Therefore, using Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to Wi-Fi 6 networks proves to be more beneficial than using Wi-Fi 5 devices and networks.
Final Thoughts
The era of more mobile, secure and connected data, assets, and people is upon us, and modern printers play a crucial role in this narrative. It’s not just about adopting the latest technology for the sake of staying on trend, but about ensuring that businesses are prepared and protected against emerging threats and challenges.
As the technology landscape continues to evolve, businesses must be proactive in adapting to these changes, and the shift to Wi-Fi 6 connectivity is an essential part of this journey.
FAQ
Q: Why is Zebra Technologies adding Wi-Fi 6 connectivity to its mobile devices and printers?
A: Zebra Technologies is adding Wi-Fi 6 connectivity to its mobile devices and printers to meet the needs of forward-thinking businesses in today’s working world. The era of standalone devices is over, and tools need to be easier to use, mobile, secure, and offer a range of useful functionalities.
Q: What is the reason for businesses to upgrade to printers and mobile devices with Wi-Fi 6 connectivity?
A: Businesses may need to upgrade to printers and mobile devices with Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for various reasons. It could be to enhance workflow security, as a Wi-Fi 6 device connected to a Wi-Fi 6 network offers the strongest defense for data. Alternatively, businesses may require a mobile printer that can produce RFID labels on the go, and it makes sense to ensure it is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 networks for performance and security purposes.
Q: What features should modern devices and printers have for front-line workers?
A: Modern devices and printers for front-line workers should have 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, near field communication, Bluetooth, and the ability to carry out high-quality RFID reading. For mobile printers, this includes the capability to print 1D and 2D barcode labels alongside RFID tags, optimal security, and even Wi-Fi 6 connectivity.
Q: What is the industry-first mobile printer launched by Zebra Technologies?
A: Zebra Technologies has recently launched the industry-first ZQ630 Plus Series mobile printer, which comes with Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, along with other features such as 802.11r fast roaming, instant wake-up over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and seamless integration with device management systems as part of Zebra’s Print DNA software suite.
Q: Why is security a concern for printers connected to wireless networks?
A: Security is a significant concern for printers connected to wireless networks due to the escalating data security threat. Businesses need to view security as an ecosystem where all devices, including printers, are a priority. Without appropriate printers connected to a new Wi-Fi 6 network, there may be vulnerabilities that businesses cannot tolerate in their upgraded wireless environment.
Q: Why is it important for businesses to have Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to their Wi-Fi 6 network?
A: It is important for businesses to have Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to their Wi-Fi 6 network to fully benefit from the capabilities of the network. Using older Wi-Fi 5 devices on a Wi-Fi 6 network, or vice versa, will not provide the same level of performance and security. Wi-Fi 6 devices connected to Wi-Fi 6 networks are better for businesses with a high density of connected devices and a need for mobility and coverage throughout their workplace.
