HPE Networking has officially released the Instant On R3.0.0 update, now rolling out in phases worldwide. This update brings a range of new features designed to make network management simpler, more intuitive, and more secure than ever. The new version introduces a modernized user interface, advanced security options, and tools for managing multiple sites with greater efficiency. Let’s explore the key features of Instant On 3.0 and how they can enhance your network management experience.
Modernized User Interface
The most noticeable change in Instant On R3.0.0 is the refreshed user interface. The updated UI provides administrators with a quick and comprehensive view of site health and network status. With a centralized management screen, you can now access detailed information about clients, networks, devices, and applications directly from the home screen. This streamlined design reduces the number of steps needed to get high-level information about your network, saving time and enhancing productivity.
One of the most requested new features is the improved search functionality. You can now search on any page using any parameter, no matter the length of the list. Filter tables by device name, alert type, site health rating, location, detected web application, and more, making it easier than ever to manage large networks.
Advanced Site Management
Managing multiple sites has never been easier with the new site management tools in Instant On 3.0. The updated dashboard now offers three distinct views to cater to different management needs:
- Multi-site View: Presents key insights about site health and alerts in a card format.
- Map View: Displays site health on a global map, which is especially useful for partners acting as service providers.
- List View: Offers an alternative to the card and map views, combining elements of both for quick searches and sorting on any column.
Additionally, the new site scheduling feature allows you to apply schedules to multiple sites, streamlining network configuration and reducing the time needed to deploy new networks. This feature is particularly beneficial for partners managing networks across multiple locations.
Enhanced Security Features
Security remains a top priority in Instant On R3.0.0, with several new features to bolster network protection. The update introduces new user roles—Administrator, Operator, Delegate, and Viewer—each with different levels of access based on network management responsibilities. This role-based access control enhances security by limiting the actions that different users can perform, ensuring more controlled and secure network management.
The new version also brings MACsec (Media Access Control Security) support to wireless networks, extending wired data protection to the access points with new link-level encryption capabilities. This feature, expected in future software releases, adds an extra layer of security to your wireless network.
Automated Intelligence and Geolocation
Instant On 3.0.0 introduces automated geolocation capabilities, allowing administrators to add geolocation information to new or existing sites. This feature helps quickly identify problem locations and deploy on-site technicians when remote resolution is not possible. Automated geolocation is set up during new network site creation, with the option to edit location details before finalizing site information.
For environments utilizing the new HPE Networking Instant On Access Points AP32, the update supports Smart Mesh over the 6GHz band. This enhancement allows for faster, more reliable mesh networking, particularly beneficial when deploying mesh between two Instant On AP32 access points.
Advanced Features for Power Users
Power users will appreciate the addition of IGMP Querier support and SNMP support for the cloud-managed Instant On 1960 switch series. These features enable better management of multicast use-cases from the cloud and allow for third-party application integration with supported devices.
Preparing for the Future
The Instant On R3.0.0 update is future-ready, designed to accommodate upcoming feature releases and make network deployment even faster and more efficient. The rollout of this update is currently underway, and customers will benefit from the new features immediately. For those with a scheduled maintenance window, the update can be deferred for up to 30 days to best fit operational needs.
Conclusion
HPE Networking Instant On R3.0.0 offers a significant upgrade for users looking to simplify network management, enhance security, and improve efficiency across multiple sites. Whether you’re managing a single network or multiple locations, the new features and capabilities of Instant On 3.0.0 are designed to make your job easier and your network more secure.