D-Link’s Approach to Next-Gen Networking Solutions

The Integrator recently interviewed Sakkeer Hussain, Director- Sales & Marketing Middle East & Africa, D-Link.

Sakkeer discussed how D-Link uses cloud technologies to improve their products across different categories. He emphasized the benefits of cloud technology for D-Link products: convenience, security, scalability, and improved user experience.

Could you provide us with insights into how D-Link incorporates cloud technologies into its product portfolio, particularly with cloud routers, cameras, and managed access points?

At D-Link, we integrate cloud technologies into various aspects of our product portfolio, to offer users remote access, manageability, and enhanced functionality. 

D-Link cloud routers can be configured and managed remotely through a web interface or mobile app. This allows users to monitor their network status, adjust settings, and troubleshoot issues from anywhere with an internet connection. Some of these routers offer cloud-based security features like intrusion detection and prevention systems. These systems can help identify and block potential security threats on the network. We also have cloud-based parental controls, allowing users to manage internet access for their children by filtering websites, scheduling internet access times, and blocking specific applications.

When it comes to our cloud cameras, users can view live footage and recordings remotely through a mobile app or web interface. This enables users to keep an eye on their homes or businesses from anywhere. Cloud-based motion detection allows cameras to send alerts to users’ smartphones or emails whenever motion is detected. This can help monitor potential security breaches. Some D-Link cloud cameras offer cloud storage for video recordings. This eliminates local storage devices and allows users to access recordings anytime, anywhere.

As you might be aware, we offer cloud-based management platforms for our managed access points. These platforms allow network administrators to remotely configure, monitor, and troubleshoot multiple access points from a single location.

By incorporating cloud technologies, we aim to provide users with a more convenient, secure, and scalable networking experience, which we have successfully done to date. 

How do you foresee cloud-managed networks shaping the future for businesses, and what role does D-Link play in driving innovation in this space?

Cloud-managed networks are poised to revolutionize business networking, and D-Link is well-positioned to be a key player in this transformation. 

Imagine juggling a bunch of Wi-Fi routers at different offices – that’s what managing networks can feel like for businesses without a big IT team. Cloud-based platforms are like magic wands for these situations. They also help save manpower. Instead of wrestling with each router individually, you can log into one simple dashboard from anywhere. This lets you see everything that’s going on at all your offices, fix any issues that pop up, and keep your network running smoothly – all without needing a team of tech experts. It’s a real time-saver. Cloud-managed networks can also offer advanced security features like threat detection and automated updates, keeping business networks safer. Thanks to the cloud’s scalability feature, businesses can easily add or remove devices to their network as needed. So for sure, it is going to shape the future of a digital-first environment. 

D-Link is already driving many innovations in this space. We introduced Nuclias range of solutions back when it was critical for organizations to have such a solution for business continuity. We focus on developing interconnectivity and user-friendly cloud management platforms that are intuitive and easy for even non-technical users to navigate. We also ensure to integration of advanced cybersecurity into our managed networking solutions.

Can you give us an overview of the features and functionalities of D-Link’s newest product, the AQUILA PRO AI M60 AX6000 Smart Mesh Wi-Fi 6 system?

The D-Link AQUILA PRO AI M60 AX6000 Smart Mesh Wi-Fi 6 system is a feature-rich offering designed to deliver high-speed, reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. With its AI-powered optimization, mesh networking capabilities, and robust security features, the M60 aims to provide a future-proof networking solution for demanding households.

Some highlights of the product are as follows – 

·      The M60 boasts AX6000 dual-band Wi-Fi 6 technology, delivering speeds of up to 6 Gbps. This translates to blazing-fast internet for smooth streaming, lag-free gaming, and efficient handling of multiple connected devices.

·      The M60 utilizes a powerful antenna design coupled with AI technology to provide comprehensive 360-degree Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. This eliminates frustrating dead zones and ensures a seamless connection wherever you are.

·      The M60 functions as a standalone router, but it also has built-in mesh capabilities. This allows you to add additional AQUILA PRO AI routers or extenders to your network in the future, creating a mesh system for even larger homes.

·      The M60 leverages AI to automatically scan and select the best channels with minimal interference, optimizing your Wi-Fi performance.

·      The AI tech also enables self-healing mesh capabilities, ensuring your network automatically recovers from any minor disruptions.

·      The M60 offers advanced Quality of Service (QoS) with AI-powered network prioritization. This allows you to prioritize bandwidth for specific devices or activities, ensuring smooth operation for critical tasks like video conferencing.

·      The M60 comes with built-in security features like WPA3 encryption to help safeguard your home network. Additionally, it offers premium parental controls to manage internet access for your children.

·      The M60 is designed for user-friendly setup and management through the intuitive AQUILA PRO AI app. This app guides you through the installation process and allows you to monitor your network performance.

How does D-Link view environmentally friendly technologies and the associated costs involved in designing products aimed at reducing carbon footprint and conserving energy?

We think it is critical to have sustainability at the heart of everything we do. 

We take pride in our ‘Green Technology’ agenda, which we introduced for our channel partners and end-user customers in the region. Thirteen years ago, D-Link was the first to introduce the industry’s first ‘Green Ethernet’ technology with a series of environmentally friendly small office, home office (SOHO) Gigabit switches that decrease energy costs by reducing power consumption without sacrificing operational performance and functionality. D-Link has continued this ethos and today, we continue to develop green networking technology, which allows our products to reduce power consumption drastically. 

AI can play a key role in enabling us to create environmentally friendly technologies that are cost-effective and user-friendly, without compromising on the design and quality. 

Could you share some insights from the recent Distributor Meet 2024 hosted by D-Link Middle East & Africa in Bali, Indonesia?

D-Link’s regional distributor meet was a memorable experience, it was all about saluting collaboration and recognizing the incredible partnerships we have built over the years. The event brought together our top distributors from across the Middle East and Africa. We recognized the outstanding achievements and contributions of these distributors to D-Link’s success. Additionally, D-Link’s senior management presented insightful information on current market trends and shared their strategic roadmap for the future. The event was also a platform for our distributors to share valuable feedback with us on market challenges, customer preferences, and areas for improvement in D-Link’s products and services. We also had several team-building and networking sessions. 

How does D-Link plan to maintain and strengthen its partnerships with distributors and stakeholders in the Middle East & Africa region moving forward?

At D-Link, we ensure our partners know we are there for them. For any successful collaboration – communication, shared vision, clear goals, and passion are important and this is what we share with our distributors and partners. We will continue to host regular meets and training workshops, develop strong partner programs and incentives, and provide unwavering support to foster enhanced collaborations. We look forward to continuing to inspire and empower D-Link’s network of distributors and channel partners to thrive in today’s competitive market.