Top Aruba Central Alternatives for Robust Network Management

Aruba Central offers a simple, secure, and cost-effective way to manage and monitor Aruba Instant APs and switches, boasting advanced capabilities like customizable guest Wi-Fi, Aruba Clarity, and presence analytics for smarter decision-making. However, for various reasons, businesses and individuals often seek an Aruba Central alternative. Whether you're looking for different feature sets, platform compatibility, pricing models, or simply a different user experience, there are several powerful contenders in the network management and security space.

Exploring the Best Aruba Central Alternatives

Finding the perfect network management solution is crucial for maintaining a secure and efficient IT infrastructure. We've compiled a list of excellent alternatives to Aruba Central, each offering unique strengths to cater to diverse needs.

Cisco AnyConnect

Cisco AnyConnect

Cisco AnyConnect is a robust commercial VPN software that allows employees to work securely from anywhere with Internet access. It's a strong Aruba Central alternative, especially if your primary need is secure remote access and VPN capabilities. Available across a wide array of platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, Blackberry, Windows Phone, iPad, and Kindle Fire, it focuses on providing secure connectivity.

Netgear Genie

Netgear Genie

NETGEAR genie App is a free and easy way to manage, monitor, and repair your home network, making it a viable Aruba Central alternative for smaller scale or home network management. It's available on Mac, Windows, Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, iPad, and Kindle Fire, offering features like Filtering, Network Monitoring, Parental Control, Security & Privacy, and VPN, providing comprehensive control over your network.

FortiClient Endpoint Protection

FortiClient Endpoint Protection

FortiClient App is a freemium solution that includes SSL VPN for secure connections between your Apple device and your network. As an Aruba Central alternative, it stands out for its strong security focus, offering Filtering, Network Monitoring, and Security & Privacy features. It supports Mac, Windows, Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad, making it a versatile choice for endpoint protection.

F5 Networks BIG-IP Edge Portal

F5 Networks BIG-IP Edge Portal

The BIG-IP Edge Portal™ application facilitates secure remote access to enterprise web applications and can bookmark frequently accessed enterprise web resources. This free Aruba Central alternative focuses specifically on secure application access for iPhone and iPad users, offering Network Monitoring and Security & Privacy features essential for secure enterprise mobility.

Pulse Secure

Pulse Secure

Pulse Secure offers seamless, secure access from anywhere, any device with centralized management and visibility, making it a comprehensive commercial Aruba Central alternative. It provides Enterprise Mobility with VPN, NAC, and supports Android, iPhone, S60, Blackberry, Android Tablet, Windows Phone, and iPad. Its features include Filtering, Security & Privacy, and VPN.

Aerohive ID Manager

Aerohive ID Manager

Aerohive's ID Manager is a free enterprise access management system that leverages the cloud to simplify and automate the deployment and onboarding of guest and internal users. As an Aruba Central alternative, it focuses on identity and access management, supporting iPhone and iPad. Its features include Filtering, Network Monitoring, Security & Privacy, and VPN.

Palo Alto Networks Applipedia

Palo Alto Networks Applipedia

Palo Alto Networks Applipedia iPhone application is a free, on-the-go version of their rich knowledge base of applications controlled by Palo Alto Networks next-generation firewalls. While it doesn't offer direct network management like Aruba Central, it's a useful companion for understanding application behavior within networks, specifically for iPhone users.

IBM Endpoint Manager

IBM Endpoint Manager

The IBM Endpoint Manager Mobile Client app enables you to securely connect your iOS device to your organization’s network to receive email, recommended apps, and other corporate resources. This commercial Aruba Central alternative offers robust endpoint management across Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone, S60, Blackberry, Android Tablet, Windows Phone, and iPad, with features like Filtering, Security & Privacy, and VPN.

Linksys Smart Wi-Fi

Linksys Smart Wi-Fi

The Linksys Smart Wi-Fi mobile app allows you to monitor and manage your Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router. This free solution is an excellent Aruba Central alternative for home users or small offices utilizing Linksys hardware, available on iPhone and iPad. It offers features like Filtering, Network Monitoring, Parental Control, Security & Privacy, and VPN.

Tangoe Mobile

Tangoe Mobile

Tangoe Mobile simplifies the connection of your new iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with your corporate infrastructure without needing to call IT. As a free Aruba Central alternative, it excels in mobile device management and secure access for iOS devices, offering Filtering, Mobile Device Management, Network Monitoring, Security & Privacy, and VPN features.

Choosing the right Aruba Central alternative depends heavily on your specific requirements, network size, existing infrastructure, and budget. We encourage you to explore these options further to find the perfect fit that ensures robust network management and security for your operations.

Joseph Allen

Joseph Allen

Covers business software, licensing models, and the evolving tech startup landscape.