NETGEAR Launches Engage Controller for AV Switches

As Audio and Video over IP continue to reshape the Pro AV industry, managing Ethernet switches has become one of the most complex tasks for installers. Misconfigurations can disrupt the entire AV experience, and challenges like manual switch detection, time-consuming firmware updates, and the complexity of setting up protocols such as Dante, AES67, and AVB are common pain points. Recognizing these challenges, NETGEAR Engage™ Controller has emerged as a game-changing solution, designed to streamline AV-over-IP installations and revolutionize network management.

The NETGEAR Engage Controller works in harmony with the M4250, M4300, M4350, and M4500 switch series, bringing simplicity and efficiency to AV network configurations. One of its standout features is its automatic detection of all switches in a network, significantly reducing manual effort. This automatic detection also allows for one-click firmware upgrades, simplifying the often tedious task of keeping multiple switches up-to-date.

Designed with ease of use in mind, the Engage Controller features a visual AV user interface, enabling even non-network specialists to manage switches seamlessly. IT administrators and AV professionals can now configure and manage port-based profiles with precision, ensuring reliable and consistent performance across the network. The software also offers a visual network topology, giving users a clear overview of how their NETGEAR switches interact, making network management more intuitive than ever.

Portability is another key advantage of the Engage Controller. Easily downloaded onto a USB thumb drive, the software can be run from any Windows, macOS, or Linux device without the need for a dedicated installation, making it perfect for professionals who need to manage AV networks on-site.

The Engage Controller also integrates powerful NETGEAR features like IGMP Plus™, Auto-LAG, and Auto-Trunk, ensuring automated interconnectivity between switches and seamless network performance. With centralized credentials, configurations, and site information, the Engage Controller gives users full control and confidence in managing their AV networks.

NETGEAR Engage Controller redefines AV-over-IP network management by addressing key challenges with its automatic switch detection, user-friendly interface, and portable functionality. By simplifying the configuration process and centralizing control, it empowers AV professionals to manage their networks with greater efficiency and confidence, making it an indispensable tool for optimizing modern AV installations.