Are Today’s Hospitals Equipped for High-Density Device Connectivity?

From enabling telemedicine and electronic health record (EHR) systems to supporting staff communication and patient satisfaction, a strong network underpins nearly every aspect of modern healthcare. However, managing such complex connectivity requirements can be challenging, especially for large hospitals with multiple departments, devices and users.

Hospitals operate in highly demanding environments, where network performance can literally be a matter of life and death. Common challenges include:

• High device density: Hundreds or thousands of devices, from smartphones to medical equipment, need simultaneous connectivity.
• Seamless roaming: Doctors and nurses move across departments, requiring uninterrupted access to applications.
• Data security: Hospitals must comply with strict regulations like PHIPA and HIPAA to protect sensitive patient information.
• Scalability: Networks must support growing demands as hospitals expand or adopt new technologies.

Omada SDN: a comprehensive networking solution for hospitals

Meeting modern hospital connectivity challenges requires networking solutions that are centralized, reliable, secure, scalable and easy to deploy. Omada Software-Defined Networking (SDN) offers a comprehensive networking solution tailored for hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities. With Omada, they gain access to:

1. Centralized management for simplified operations

Omada provides a centralized platform for managing all network devices across a hospital campus. With the Omada Cloud-Based Controller, IT administrators can:

• Monitor network performance in real time.
• Manage access points (APs), switches and routers from a single interface.
• Troubleshoot issues remotely, reducing the need for on-site intervention.

2. Fast and reliable WiFi with advanced technologies

Omada’s Wi-Fi 7-enabled access points, like the EAP783 and EAP773, deliver blazing-fast speeds and reduced latency. Key benefits include:

• Higher capacity: OFDMA and MU-MIMO technologies allow multiple devices to connect simultaneously without lag.
• Better coverage: Beamforming and high-gain antennas ensure strong signals across large hospital areas.
• Seamless roaming: Staff can move between departments without losing connectivity.

3. Enhanced security for sensitive data

Security is non-negotiable in healthcare. Omada integrates enterprise-grade security features to protect hospital networks:

• WPA3 encryption to secure wireless connections.
• Multi-SSID support for creating separate networks for staff, guests and IoT devices.
• Captive portals for secure guest WiFi access, ensuring patient satisfaction without compromising security.

4. Scalability for growing hospitals

As hospitals expand, Omada grows with them. With devices like the TL-SG3210XHP-M2, hospitals can:

• Scale their network to support more users and devices.
• Set up secure VPNs for remote access, enabling telemedicine and off-site consultations.
• Manage traffic efficiently with features like load balancing and bandwidth control.

5. Cost efficiency with Power over Ethernet (PoE)

Omada access points, such as the EAP655-Wall, support PoE, simplifying installation and reducing infrastructure costs. Hospitals can deploy these devices in patient rooms, waiting areas and corridors without the need for additional power outlets.

Case Study: Modernizing Connectivity for Medivet Pet Hospital, Indonesia

Medivet Pet Hospital in Indonesia faced significant challenges with its surveillance and connectivity systems. The lack of reliable network infrastructure hindered their ability to monitor operations effectively and maintain seamless communication between staff and facilities. By implementing a comprehensive solution featuring TP-Link’s VIGI and Omada products, they achieved:

• Enhanced surveillance: The deployment of VIGI cameras allowed for real-time monitoring across the hospital premises, ensuring a safe and secure environment for patients and staff.
• Reliable connectivity: Omada access points provided consistent WiFi coverage, supporting critical operations such as appointment scheduling and online consultations.
• Centralized management: With Omada’s cloud-based management system, IT administrators could monitor and troubleshoot the network remotely, saving time and resources.

This transformation not only improved operational efficiency but also elevated the hospital’s ability to deliver high-quality care in a tech-driven environment.

The healthcare industry’s reliance on technology will only grow, making fast, reliable and secure WiFi a cornerstone of hospital operations. Omada offers a comprehensive solution to meet these demands, enabling hospitals to provide better care, improve staff efficiency and enhance patient experiences. Omada isn’t just a network solution—it’s a partner in healthcare innovation. Visit https://www.tp-link.com/ca/business-networking/ or email us at sales.ca@tp-link.com to learn more.