Introduction: Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Voice Over Wireless LAN
The Voice Over W-LAN market is experiencing a period of unprecedented competition, driven by a combination of technological development, changing regulations and the need for seamless connection. The key players, including IT system builders, network operators and operators, are using new technologies such as AI-based analysis, automation and IoT integration to increase service and efficiency. Moreover, the new entrants, especially the AI-based start-ups, are introducing solutions that challenge the existing framework, focusing on the biometrics and green network to meet the needs of sustainable development. As organizations focus on wireless communication, the regional market has become an opportunity, especially in North America and Asia-Pacific, where strategic deployment trends will continue to shape the market until 2024. These developments must be followed closely to seize opportunities and maintain a competitive advantage.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
These vendors offer comprehensive solutions that integrate voice and data services over wireless LAN.
Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
Hewlett Packard Enterprise |
Strong enterprise networking capabilities |
Networking and communication solutions |
Global |
Cisco Systems |
Market leader in networking technology |
Unified communications and networking |
Global |
Aruba Networks |
Innovative wireless solutions |
Wireless networking and security |
Global |
Extreme Networks |
AI-driven networking solutions |
Networking and analytics |
Global |
AlcatelLucent |
Strong telecom heritage |
Networking and communication systems |
Global |
Specialized Technology Vendors
These vendors focus on specific technologies or solutions within the VoWLAN space.
Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
Mitel Networks |
Expertise in unified communications |
VoIP and communication solutions |
North America, Europe |
Avaya |
Strong in customer engagement solutions |
Unified communications and contact center |
Global |
Aerohive Networks |
Cloud-managed networking solutions |
Wireless networking |
Global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These vendors provide the hardware and infrastructure necessary for VoWLAN implementations.
Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
Ubiquiti |
Cost-effective networking solutions |
Wireless networking equipment |
Global |
NETGEAR |
User-friendly networking products |
Networking hardware |
Global |
Ruckus Wireless |
High-performance wireless solutions |
Wireless infrastructure |
Global |
Zyxel |
Affordable networking solutions |
Networking and security |
Global |
Juniper Networks |
Advanced networking technology |
Networking and security solutions |
Global |
MikroTik |
Versatile and customizable solutions |
Networking equipment |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Then I turned to Airvana (USA), which specializes in VoWiFi solutions for urban environments. Airvana has recently teamed up with a large telecommunications company to improve indoor coverage in metropolitan areas. It is challenging the established vendors by offering cost-effective solutions adapted to high-density locations.
- Among the companies represented in the field of wireless telecommunications is a Latvian company, Mikrotik, which offers inexpensive wireless devices and VoIP solutions. It has recently participated in a large-scale Wi-Fi deployment in Eastern Europe. It complements the products of established vendors with affordable alternatives for small and medium-sized businesses.
- Ruckus Networks, a provider of high-performance Wi-Fi and voice over wireless LAN solutions, has recently been awarded a contract by a major university to revamp its campus network. The company is competing with traditional vendors by delivering superior performance in crowded, congested areas.
- ZyXEL (Taiwan): Provides solutions for VoWiFi in small businesses, and has just launched a new product line to enhance voice quality over wireless networks. ZyXEL complements the large vendors by offering specialized products and services in specific markets.
Regional Trends: In 2023, a notable increase in the use of VoWLAN solutions is expected in urban areas, driven by the need for better connections in crowded areas. The newcomers are focusing on cost-effective and specialized solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. The established vendors are being challenged by these newcomers. They are also increasingly integrating VoWLAN into the existing network to improve the user experience and reduce operating costs.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- The two companies have formed a partnership to enhance their Voice over WLAN solutions. Their aim is to improve interoperability and the user experience in the enterprise environment and thereby strengthen their position in the market.
- In the middle of 2023, Mitel acquired Avaya’s Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. This was a major expansion of its portfolio in the Voice over LAN (VoWLAN) market. Its share of the market was expected to grow and its service offerings to improve in the face of the growing demand for unified communications.
- Extreme Networks and Microsoft collaborated to integrate their technologies, focusing on delivering seamless voice and data services over wireless LAN, which positions them favorably against competitors in the rapidly evolving digital workplace.
Competitive Summary Table
Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
Biometric Self-Boarding |
Cisco, Aruba Networks |
With the help of wireless LAN technology, Cisco has incorporated biometric self-boarding solutions into its wireless LANs, thereby improving security and passenger flow. Aruba has entered into an alliance with biometric technology companies to speed up boarding processes and has shown successful implementations at major airports. |
AI-Powered Ops Mgmt |
Extreme Networks, Ruckus Wireless |
Extreme Management uses Artificial Intelligence for its Predictive Analytics, enabling the company to anticipate and resolve network issues before they occur. Case studies from the field show that Ruckus has been able to optimize its network performance using Artificial Intelligence. |
Border Control |
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Cisco |
HPE wireless LAN solutions support advanced border control systems and can be integrated into existing security architectures. HPE wireless LAN solutions have been used in various border control applications and have enhanced real-time monitoring and response capabilities. |
Sustainability |
Aruba Networks, Cisco |
In addition, the energy-saving design of the Aruba wireless LAN products supports the sustainable development goals. Cisco has launched a number of initiatives to reduce its own carbon footprint, and published case studies that show how much energy it has saved in large deployments. |
Passenger Experience |
Cisco, Extreme Networks |
Cisco's solutions enhance the passenger experience through seamless connectivity and personal services in airports. Extreme networks has focused on delivering high-quality Wi-Fi experiences, with successful implementations in transport hubs that put the passenger experience first. |
Conclusion: Navigating the Voice Over Wireless LAN Landscape
The Voice over Wireless LAN market in 2023 is characterized by intense competition and significant fragmentation, with the competition between the traditional and new players. In the geographical distribution, North America and Europe will lead the way, with the development of advanced communication solutions. In the competition, the suppliers must strategically position themselves, relying on AI-driven analysis, automation for operational efficiency, and sustainable development to meet the needs of changing customers. As the market matures, the flexibility of the services offered is the key to leadership, and the flexibility of the service will meet the different needs of different customers and the trend of technology. The strategy of a supplier is to focus on these strategic priorities in the face of the complexity of the market and the complexity of the market.