NETGEAR launches upgrade to Engage
November 12, 2024
NETGEAR, a provider of networking products that power businesses of any size, has announced the launch of Engage 2.0, a major upgrade to the powerful platform designed to streamline management of audiovisual (AV) networks. NETGEAR Engage 2.0 is free and available to download now.
The convergence of AV and IT environments and return of large-scale and mobile events and experiences continue to change the way AV systems are used, and the impact is significant. AV over IP brings complexity to commercial, broadcast, or residential installers when it comes to managing Ethernet switches, routers, and WiFi access points. For example, detecting Ethernet switches and access points deployed across a network requires a great deal of manual effort. Additionally, updating firmware on multiple devices is time consuming, and proper configuration of AV networks can be cumbersome. Now that the network is the central AV fabric, an improper setup can ruin the entire AV experience.
Given these challenges, a powerful central management system is critical. The new NETGEAR Engage 2.0, a free software download, provides a centralised and user-friendly way to manage AV networks. By providing AV network, router, and WiFi controllability under one platform, users gain more seamless configuration and management for any installation.
“With almost three decades of network leadership, we’re constantly innovating to simplify AV and WiFi connectivity and provide a more seamless management experience,” said Laurent Masia, Senior Director of Product Line Management, Managed Switches, at NETGEAR. “The new Engage 2.0 software delivers expansive, unified control features for even the most complex AV network installations.”
Engage 2.0 allows for effortless WiFi control in AV fixed installations with touch panels and tablets connecting to ad-hoc wireless networks, enhancing the control of AV endpoints across VLANs. For large events, the platform allows installers to create temporary WiFi guest networks to provide a robust WiFi solution for mobile studios or crews, ensuring guests stay connected. For residential settings, the enhanced capabilities streamline AV deployments allowing AV system integrators to manage both AV systems and home WiFi networks.