How Does the Netcloud Manager from Cradlepoint Work?

As the IoT continues to expand, the demand for network access continues to grow. These ever-expanding wide area networks (WAN) must sometimes cover locations spread across widespread and diverse geographical locations. 

Managing the security and connections to these large networks is a momentous task that probably cannot be done without the assistance of a powerful and advanced network manager. The Cradlepoint NetCloud Manager has what it takes to get the job done. 

NetCloud Manager Overview 

Cradlepoint's NetCloud Manager is a network service management software platform that uses wireless cellular routers to allow its users to harness the power of LTE and 5G cellular networks to grant access to their network and ensure the security of the network and its users. Regardless of the device, they are connecting from, or how far away they are, your organization's members will be able to access the internet and critical data center and cloud applications quickly and reliably. 

The NetCloud Manager makes it possible for new network access points to be quickly established and controlled, even if they are widely dispersed. This service is provided as part of an all-in-one subscription package adapted to meet your company's specific needs. 

Your first interaction with the NetCloud Manager System will likely be through their easy-to-navigate dashboard. Here you will find information about your network, connectivity, performance, current data, and past usage based on WAN analytics. On the dashboard, you will also find links to other functions to find vital information and make necessary changes in real-time. These include: 

  • Devices: This page allows you to monitor all devices loaded into the NetCloud Manager. You can view each device's status, update firmware, and change configurations. 
  • Groups: NetCloud gives you the option of grouping the devices loaded onto it. From here, you can perform all of the same actions you can from the devices page but for an entire group. 
  • Logs and Alerts: This page provides you with a list of alerts generated by any of your devices. You can customize how these alerts are sent to you and create proactive alerts from here. 
  • Insights: The insights page allows you to schedule, create, run and share reports that provide essential information about your account and its functioning. 
  • Tools: This page allows you to manage all SDKs, Developer Mode devices, API keys, containers, and applications. 
  • Account: This page allows you to add and edit all users and subaccounts 
  • Resources: This page should be your first stop when you have questions. Here you will find links to training, forums, technical support, product support, and our knowledge base. 

How the NetCloud Manager Functions 

The NetCloud Manager uses cellular routers or modems with signal boosters, when necessary, to provide connections to your network. Some of the more commonly used routers for the NetCloud Manager are: 

  • IBR600: This is a compact modem with a built-in modem. It is designed for use by businesses that need constant connectivity. 
  • IBR900: This is a router that has been ruggedized for use in vehicles.
  • IBR1700: This router is also designed for use in vehicles. It provides Wi-Fi, LTE, and Ethernet connectivity and is sold as part of the subscription to NetCloud Service for Mobile. 

The modems and routers provide the connections to the IoT and the internet. The software enables the users to manage those connections and sets up cloud-based security. Between the hardware and the software, NetCloud allows access anywhere, anytime, without increasing the risk of a security breach. 

Network Benefits Customers Love 

The NetCloud Network Management System offers many benefits to its users, but there are three that stand out as customer favorites:

Utilize Zero-Touch Deployment

No matter where you need to place them, NetCloud gives you the ability to deploy and manage all connected devices without going anywhere or touching anything

Monitor Device Status in Real-Time 

A quick trip to the Devices page from your dashboard, and you will be able to instantly see the current status of any device connected to your NetCloud Manager. The management software also makes it possible for you to make any necessary configuration changes or upload updated firmware to those devices all from one page. 

Access to Instant WAN/LAN Analytics and Visibility 

You can access detailed, current, and immediate information about your network from the dashboard. The NetCloud Manager system uses WAN/LAN analytics to provide real-time information about connectivity, data usage, and performance of your network and the devices that connect to it. 

The Essential vs. Advanced Subscription 

All of the services, software, and hardware provided to you by NetCloud Cradlepoint are offered as subscription services. The basic subscription offers many features and is customizable, but some companies may require even more. For those companies, Cradlepoint offers Advanced Subscriptions. Here is a breakdown of the main differences between the Essential and the Advanced Subscriptions. 

Essential 

  • Basic Cloud Management tools 
  • Enhanced visibility, remote management, and mapping/fencing (these features are not included in the Essential Services package that comes with an IoT router) 

Advanced 

The Advanced Service subscription includes all the features of the Essential Subscription and: 

  • Enhanced visibility, mapping, and remote management for the subscriptions that include an IoT router 
  • Integrated content filtering, traffic analytics, and Cradlepoint's Secure Threat Management 

Novotech Can Support Your Network Management Service Needs 

Novotech is a leading distributor of IoT software, hardware, and services in North America. We have over 20 years of experience in the field and offer over 5000 products manufactured by 22 different companies. We have recently been named a Cradlepoint Elite Partner and are well versed in the function, use, and management of Cradlepoint's NetCloud essentials. 

The skilled and professional staff at Novotech are ready to share their expertise with all of Cradlepoint's software and hardware to help your company make the most of your subscription. To find out how Novotech can help you with the NetCloud Management System of any of the other products we sell and service, visit our site.