Common Managed WiFi Pricing Models & How We Price Our Services

You’ve found what seems to be the perfect Managed WiFi provider for your apartment building. But when the bill arrives, it’s filled with hidden fees and unexpected charges. This scenario is all too common. Navigating the complex world of Managed WiFi pricing models can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be.

Reliable internet connectivity is as essential as water and electricity in apartment buildings. Managed WiFi services are becoming increasingly popular among property managers and residents alike, offering reliable internet experiences and robust support systems. With the demand for these services on the rise, understanding the various pricing structures is important to making informed decisions.

One of the biggest pain points for property managers and residents is the lack of transparency in pricing. Many providers lure customers in with attractive base rates, only to pile on hidden fees and extra charges later. This lack of upfront clarity can lead to frustration and mistrust. At DojoNetworks®, we believe in clear, straightforward pricing with no surprises. Our goal is to provide exceptional value while maintaining complete transparency in our pricing models.

By breaking down the common pricing models and explaining our transparent approach, we aim to empower you with the knowledge needed to choose the best Managed WiFi service for your apartment building and to answer a frequently asked question: “How much does managed WiFi cost?”

Demystifying Managed WiFi Services Pricing

Understanding Managed WiFi

Managed WiFi refers to a comprehensive internet service provided and maintained by a third-party company for an entire multi-tenant building or property. Unlike traditional internet setups where each resident contracts individually with an ISP, Bulk Managed WiFi ensures consistent and ubiquitous coverage, enhanced security, and professional management across the property. This solution simplifies internet access for residents, while offering property owners and managers a streamlined way to provide high-quality connectivity. The core value proposition lies in its convenience, reliability, and the ability to offer seamless, high-speed internet throughout the property.

Here are some simple items to help determine if the solution is a “True” Managed WIFI Service:

1. Monitoring: The network is built with 24 x 7 monitoring of every device.
2. Support: The network has 24 x 7 support for the network and end users.
3. Design: Networks designed with one SSID that allows seamless roaming for users throughout the property but can allow individual unit SSIDs to be dynamically spun up if needed.
4. RF Spectral Efficiency: Utilizing a cloud controller from a vendor such as RUCKUS can eliminate WiFi interference and optimize network performance. AI and machine learning ensure that every device functions optimally, unlike retail (self-purchased) or bulk WiFi (non-managed WiFi) solutions.
5. Transparency: The property owner has a real-time portal for network availability, bandwidth usage, customer tickets and more information on network performance.
6. Redundancy: Elements of redundancy like backup UPS power for the network, secondary access and or circuits if the main fiber is down.
7. Back up: Network design to allow secondary access to users if one Access Point fails allowing for service with the next closest AP for reliable service.
8. Updates: Regular timely updates of software, licenses and maintenance of all electronics during maintenance windows limiting user impact.
9. Improved Cellular Coverage: By deploying Passpoint, on-property cellular coverage is expanded to areas that might not otherwise have cell phone service.
10. White Glove Experience: The ManagedWiFi provider maintains software that integrates with the property’s PMS software to allow for frictionless onboarding of new residents.

Common Managed WiFi Pricing Models

In the industry, several pricing models are employed to cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding these models will help you compare managed WiFi pricing and choose the right option for your property.

• Flat Fee per Unit: This straightforward pricing structure involves a fixed cost per resident unit. It's easy to understand and budget for, as each unit is billed the same amount regardless of usage. The model provides simplicity and uniformity, making it a popular choice for many property managers.
  
  
• Tiered Pricing: Tiered pricing offers residents a range of internet speed packages at different price points. This model allows for flexibility, as residents can choose a plan that best suits their needs and budget. It accommodates diverse usage patterns, from basic browsing to high-demand streaming and gaming.
  
  
• Per Access Point Model: In this model, billing is based on the number of access points (APs) required to provide adequate coverage throughout the building. The per-AP approach ensures that the cost reflects the infrastructure needed to deliver robust connectivity, making it suitable for properties with varying layout complexities and sizes.
  
  
• Hybrid Models: Hybrid models combine elements of the above pricing structures to create a customized solution tailored to the specific needs of an MDU property. For instance, a property might employ a flat fee per unit for basic service while offering tiered pricing for premium speed upgrades. This flexibility allows for a balanced approach, accommodating budget-conscious and high-usage residents.Rate Increase.

Pros and Cons of Each Model

Flat Fee per Unit

There are some pros to the flat fee per unit model. It is simple to understand and straightforward to budget for, offering predictability with consistent costs for property managers and residents. The model ensures that every resident has access to the same level of internet service.

Of course, there are also some cons to this pricing approach. It lacks flexibility, as it may not cater to the diverse needs of residents who have varying internet usage patterns and speed requirements. Additionally, residents with low internet usage might feel they are overpaying compared to their actual consumption.

Tiered Pricing

Tiered pricing offers notable benefits. Its flexibility allows residents to choose from different internet speed packages based on their needs and budget. The option for customization provides a more tailored internet experience, accommodating various usage patterns from basic browsing to high-demand activities. The model is also scalable, easily accommodating new speed tiers or additional services.

Flexibility can also introduce complexity, making it more challenging to manage and administer due to the need for careful tracking of different packages and billing rates. Residents might also find the range of options confusing, leading to uncertainty about which package best suits their needs.

Per Access Point Model

The per access point model can be simple, but generally is not something offered for apartment buildings; it is typically used for commercial spaces such as large office buildings or malls. It aligns costs with the actual infrastructure required, so pricing is reflective of the property’s physical setup. This model prioritizes maintaining strong, consistent internet performance by focusing on access point distribution but not necessarily individual customer support.

The downside: It may overlook variations in resident density, which can result in uneven service quality in densely populated areas. Additionally, costs can fluctuate based on the number of access points needed, resulting in less predictable budgeting.

Hybrid Models

Hybrid models offer adaptability by combining elements of various pricing models to create a customized solution that meets the specific needs of an MDU property and its residents. They provide a balanced approach, offering basic service to all while allowing residents to purchase premium service upgrades. This flexibility can better accommodate diverse resident needs and preferences, which enhances overall resident satisfaction.

Hybrid models require careful planning and customization to implement effectively, which can be time-consuming and administratively challenging upfront if the WiFi vendor fails to present pricing information in an easy-to-understand format. Ongoing management can also be more demanding, requiring regular adjustments and communication with residents. Again, this potential con is vendor-specific. DojoNetworks’ management dashboard, Elemento, makes it easy to manage individual users with the click of a mouse, and service upgrades are handled by the DojoNetworks team, not by property staff.

The DojoNetworks Difference: Transparent and Value-Driven Pricing

At DojoNetworks, we understand that navigating Managed WiFi pricing can be a complex and often frustrating experience. That's why we have developed a pricing model that prioritizes simplicity, transparency, and value. Our approach is designed to eliminate the confusion and hidden fees, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the fees and services to be provided very early in the evaluation process.

Transparency is at the heart of our pricing strategy. We believe that you deserve to know exactly what you're paying for, with no surprises. Our detailed, straightforward pricing structure is communicated upfront, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Our primary objective is to deliver exceptional Managed WiFi solutions that enhance the MDU living experience. By combining transparency with a commitment to value, we build trust and long-term relationships with our clients and provide peace of mind and satisfaction for property managers and their residents.

How We Price Our Services

As the fastest growing Managed WiFi provider in the U.S., we understand that each MDU property is unique, which is why we take a customized approach to developing Managed WiFi solutions. Our pricing considers several key factors to ensure that our service meets the specific needs of each property.

• Building Size: The total square footage and number of units in your building play a significant role in determining the scope of the WiFi network’s design.
• Resident Density: We consider the number of residents and their expected internet usage patterns to always ensure adequate bandwidth and performance for everyone.
• Desired Internet Speeds: Different properties have varying needs for internet speed, depending on the activities of their residents, such as basic browsing versus high-definition streaming or online gaming.
• Required Equipment: Designing the WiFi network for long-term value is a critical service component, and the Dojo team are experts at it. Our pre-quote site survey ensures that we include the appropriate number and type of access points, routers, and other networking hardware necessary to provide reliable coverage throughout the property, streamlining implementation and limiting the likelihood of change orders.

Pricing Components

Pricing for managed WiFi service typically falls into two categories: capital expenses and operating expenses. Capital expenses (CapEx) include equipment purchases, labor, and other one-time fees associated with service installation and activation. Operating expenses (OpEx) are the recurring fees associated with providing internet and support services over the term of the service agreement.

Given the uniqueness of each property—brownfield vs. greenfield, existing fiber vs no fiber, number of buildings on the property, etc.—capital expenses can vary widely but commonly fall within the range of $700 - $2500 per apartment unit. Some vendors, including DojoNetworks, offer the opportunity to amortize CapEx over the term of the service agreement.

The primary determinants of recurring operating expenses are the bandwidth requirements and the number of units to be served. The standard bandwidth offering recently has been symmetric fiber based 1 Gbps (multi-gig is on the horizon), but property management may decide to provide more or less bandwidth to their residents, often providing a base level of service with options to upgrade to higher speeds. For budgetary purposes, assume OpEx of $15-$22/month/unit. The per-unit cost will be higher in smaller properties, making managed WiFi most cost effective for properties with more that 50 rental units and especially cost effective once you have more than 100 units at a single property.

Benefits of DojoNetworks' Pricing Structure

Our pricing structure is designed with transparency and value in mind. Here are the key benefits:

No Hidden Fees or Surprise Charges: We believe in complete transparency when it comes to pricing. Our all-inclusive pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you will be paying from the outset. We avoid the common industry practice of adding hidden fees or surprise charges, which can lead to frustration and distrust. With us, there are no unexpected costs cropping up later. Our clear and upfront pricing allows you to budget accurately and confidently.

Clear and Concise Proposals: Our proposals are designed to be clear and detailed. We outline all costs comprehensively, so you understand every component of the pricing. This includes the cost of equipment, installation, and ongoing support. By breaking down each expense, we ensure that you have a complete picture of what you’re investing in. It’s a level of transparency you’re unlikely to receive from large cable companies and other internet service providers.

Scalable Solutions: Our unique Managed WiFi+ service is designed with scalability in mind. As your property’s needs evolve, our services can grow and adapt accordingly. Whether you are adding more units, adding smart building technology, or increasing your internet speed requirements, we can adjust our solution to ensure continuous optimal performance. This scalability means that you won't outgrow your Managed WiFi+ solution.

Maximizing Value and Resident Satisfaction: Our primary focus is to deliver frictionless service that provides high value for your investment. Our service enhances resident satisfaction, making your property more attractive to both current residents and prospective tenants. Happy residents are more likely to stay longer and recommend your property to others, thereby reducing turnover and increasing occupancy rates.

Additional Considerations When Choosing a Managed WiFi Provider

While pricing is one of the most crucial aspects to consider when selecting a Managed WiFi provider, MDU owners should also consider several other factors to ensure they choose a provider that will deliver reliable, high-quality service and support.

Key Aspects to Consider:

• Provider Experience and Expertise in Multi-Dwelling Units: Choosing a provider with extensive experience in managing WiFi for multi-dwelling units (MDUs) is essential. Providers with a proven track record understand the unique challenges and requirements of apartment buildings, ensuring more efficient and effective service delivery.
• Quality of Equipment and Network Infrastructure: The quality of the equipment and network infrastructure used by the provider significantly impacts the performance and reliability of the WiFi service. Ensure the provider uses state-of-the-art technology and strong infrastructure to deliver reliable WiFi throughout the building.
• Customer Service and Support Responsiveness: Excellent customer service and responsive support are vital for addressing any issues that may arise promptly. A provider with a strong support team can help minimize downtime and ensure resident satisfaction.
• Scalability and Future-Proofing Capabilities: As technology and resident needs evolve, the WiFi network must be able to adapt. Choose a provider that offers scalable solutions and future-proofing capabilities to accommodate growth and technological advancements, ensuring long-term viability and performance.

Schedule a Free Consultation and Experience the DojoNetworks Difference

Are you ready to enhance your apartment building's internet service with a reliable, high-quality Managed WiFi solution? Take the next step and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Partner Development team.

We will work with you to design a Managed WiFi+ solution that meets your needs and fits your budget. During this consultation, we'll cover all aspects of our service, from equipment and installation to ongoing support and scalability.

Experience the DojoNetworks difference and see how our transparent, value-driven approach can transform your apartment building's connectivity. Contact us today to get started and ensure your residents enjoy the best internet experience possible.

Conclusion

Understanding managed WiFi pricing models is important for making informed decisions. It’s imperative to select a service provider with a transparent pricing structure so you avoid hidden fees and unexpected charges that may blow your budget after the deal is signed.

At DojoNetworks, we pride ourselves on our clear, straightforward pricing and commitment to delivering the best value for your property. Our expertise, experience, and exceptional customer service set us apart from other providers:

• Providing internet to MDUs since 2000 with 100% client retention
• Serving all four verticals: Conventional, Student, Senior and Affordable housing
• Financially independent; not beholden to investors focused on short-term profits
• Industry leading 24x7 support metrics
• Innovative, comprehensive customer management dashboard
• National footprint—active customers from the State of Washington to Florida—and growing weekly

Want to learn more about our unique Managed WiFi+ solution? Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.