Best Brands for Reliable Network Hardware Equipment

Selecting the right brand for network hardware equipment is critical for ensuring dependability, functionality, and scalability. Investing in quality hardware can save time, money, and headaches in the long run, whether you’re upgrading business infrastructure or building a brand new network from the ground up. 

The global network hardware market is projected to increase to USD 15.48 billion by 2026 from USD 9.83 billion in 2020. Given such expansive growth, enterprises must be diligent in selecting hardware in order to ensure they will meet their current and future needs.

What to Look for in a Network Hardware Brand

Not all providers of networking hardware are equal. Here are five elements to look at when judging brands:

1. Market Presence and Stability: Companies with a history of innovation and market presence are less likely to leave customers high and dry when it comes to support. As network hardware is a considerable investment, selecting a company with a proven track record will guarantee long-term service and support.
   
2. Scalability: The changing high demand for hybrid offices requires your network infrastructure to scale easily with evolving business needs. The best brands will provide solutions that scale as your business grows and are capable of handling larger workloads with no drop in performance.
   
3. Innovation and Future-Readiness: Technologies such as AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are changing the way businesses function. Selecting the right network hardware provider means these innovations are investments in modernizing and future-proofing your network.
   
4. Customer Support and Reliability: Downtime is costly, especially for businesses that need to stay connected around the clock. 24/7 support and comprehensive SLAs, among other forms of customer support, are essential in deciding on a network hardware supplier to partner with.
   
5. Ecosystem and Partner Network: Top-rated network brands are teaming with cybersecurity companies, software developers, and other technology partners to deliver integrated solutions. Partnership ecosystem certified by a well-established partner network for seamless compatibility and enhanced performance.

Now, it’s time to review the top brands of network hardware equipment as well as what makes them unique.

1. Cisco

Why Cisco?

Cisco has existed since 1984 and has been a global leader in networking. It provides a robust lineup of routers, switches, and access points to fit any size of business. Cisco is synonymous with enterprise-grade reliability, and, as such, its solutions make sense for small businesses as they do for large corporations and cloud service providers.

Key Strengths:

• Market Leader: Cisco’s 50,000+ global employees command a leading position in the networking industry.
• Scalability: Cisco network solutions can accommodate businesses of all sizes and facilitate growth as your business expands.
• Innovation: Cisco implements AI and ML in its integrated network management tools to monitor performance and automate decisions.
• Robust Support: Cisco provides extensive training and support via its Networking Academy and global partner ecosystem.

Considerations:

Though Cisco is known for advanced features and reliability, they require technical skills in an initial setup and configuration. They also make a higher upfront investment than some competitors.

2. Aruba (A Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company)

Why Aruba?

Aruba (a subsidiary of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)) is a market leader in wired and wireless networking solutions. The company became particularly known for its cloud-managed and AI-powered networking solutions.

Key Strengths:

• Cloud-Driven Management: Aruba incorporates cloud-based automation and AI-powered analytics into its networking solutions for optimal performance.
• Edge-to-Cloud Connectivity: This is a solution for enterprises or large businesses that also have multiple locations requiring seamless connectivity.
• Security-Focused: Aruba leverages Zero Trust Security to defend against cyber attacks.
• User-Friendly Dashboard: Aruba Central makes managing networks intuitive and hassle-free.

Considerations:

Admittedly, Aruba offers enterprise-grade solutions, and features may be too advanced for smaller businesses. Moreover, high-end solutions can be expensive.

3. HPE (Hewlett-Packard Enterprise)

Why HPE?

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is a well-known provider of IT infrastructure and has a full series of networking products, such as switches, routers, and wireless networking solutions.

Key Strengths:

• Enterprise-Grade Solutions: HPE is a business and offers wired as well as wireless networking products.
• Edge-to-Cloud Integration: HPE enables hybrid workplaces, AI-powered network automation, and IoT connectivity.
• Strong Partner Network: The HPE Ezmeral Marketplace has integrations with various technology partners.

Considerations:

Not all features are available with basic models, and command-line configuration can be challenging for non-technical users.

4. Juniper Networks

Why Juniper?

Juniper Networks delivers high-performance networking hardware and software-defined networking (SDN) solutions. It’s the most popular solution; it’s a favorite of businesses wanting flexibility and automation.

Key Strengths:

• Future-Ready Technology: Juniper provides AI-driven network solutions and investments in automation.
• Scalability: Its software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities simplify scaling for expanding businesses.
• Security Integration: With built-in security features, Juniper is a solid option for digital companies.

Considerations:

Juniper’s offerings are complex and may need qualified expertise to implement and maintain. Other users have complained about firmware updates and documentation.

5. Meraki (by Cisco)

Why Meraki?

Meraki – a Cisco-owned, cloud-managed networking brand that makes network management easy with its dashboard interface. It’s best for businesses seeking plug-and-play network devices.

Key Strengths:

• Cloud-Managed Simplicity: Skip the complex on-site configuration. With Meraki’s dashboard, management is simple.
• Security and Analytics: Built-in security features and real-time analytics to track network activities.
• Scalability: Meraki provides networking solutions for small offices and large enterprises.

Considerations:

While Meraki’s cloud-first approach makes it user-friendly, it does require a subscription for full functionality.

6. Ubiquiti

Why Ubiquiti?

Ubiquiti is a more affordable alternative for businesses looking for enterprise-grade networking solutions. As such, it provides a number of access points, routers, and switches that enable efficient connectivity.

Key Strengths:

• Affordable Pricing: Ubiquiti offers premium networking equipment at affordable prices.
• User-Friendly Interface: UniFi controller software, which makes network management a breeze.
• Scalability: Suitable for small businesses and multi-site networks.

Considerations:

Others have found that some of Ubiquiti’s low-cost devices wear out more quickly, and advanced features may require manual configurations.

Choosing the Right Network Hardware Equipment

The right network hardware equipment is imperative to ensure the smooth operations of your business. However, the selection process should consider your business size, budget, and future scalability. Cisco, Aruba, HPE, Juniper, Meraki, and Ubiquiti are among the best when it comes to industry-leading reliability and performance.

We deal with the best network hardware equipment brands in the market. Contact Link US Online today at (919) 825-0900 to get expert guidance and the best deals on network hardware equipment for your business.