Business network architecture can be a complicated subject, even in a medium-sized company. Today’s digital environment demands that a wide array of systems, devices and software have the capability to communicate with one another. Without this interconnection, modern processes don’t work. Productivity drops and simple tasks become very complex. When using platforms such as Tungsten ControlSuite to implement process automation, you need to know your network well.

The same is true when you’re in the midst of a transition away from traditional, on-premises print servers. Switching to a cloud-based service for printer management, such as Printix, can offer many benefits. However, you need to ensure there is a reliable connection between your multi-function devices and your servers for print management and document automation.

Before we explore a way to troubleshoot network connectivity problems between your devices, let’s take a step back. What are ControlSuite and Printix best used for, and why might you run into issues with device connection failures?

What is ControlSuite?

ControlSuite is a robust platform for transforming entire document workflows from end to end. ControlSuite provides a means of centralizing capture, device management and more within a highly secure environment. ControlSuite supports intelligent automation that reduces error rates, limits manual work and integrates more thoroughly with your business. ControlSuite also works as a print management server that includes secure services such as print-to-me and authenticated document releases. To be effective, ControlSuite needs to communicate clearly with multi-function devices across the organization.

What is Printix?

Printix is a cloud-based print management service that lets you eliminate traditional print architectures based on local servers. The traditional setup requires intensive administration to keep devices up to date and running. Printix provides a centralized location for managing all the devices across your organization. Printix also enables "print anywhere" functionality from virtually any device that's attached to your network. Like ControlSuite, Printix must be able to navigate your network architecture successfully to connect with devices and facilitate the flow of data.

When Connections Get Complicated

Both ControlSuite and Printix can encounter issues with complex network architectures. There may be many layers to your network with lots of switches, routers, and layers. Security settings might easily mismatch between different parts of your infrastructure. The specifics of what’s going on behind the scenes aren’t always easy to see, either. Now scale up those issues to companies that have hundreds of devices rather than dozens—it’s not hard to see how that could cause problems.

Client devices, such as MFDs, might not be able to “see” or communicate with the server application, such as ControlSuite. This lack of connectivity requires a solution to achieve the advantages these platforms offer. How can you pierce through the fog and find answers about otherwise opaque network issues?

Streamline Troubleshooting With a Free Port Checker

Tungsten Professional Services provides the answer with version two of its simple ControlSuite & Printix Port Checker. This simple utility provides a reliable method for network troubleshooting issues with both platforms.

With ControlSuite, you may not be able to see precisely why a particular MFD can’t connect to the server. Using this module, you can test the network ports used for communication between the device and the server. This step will reveal when port issues prevent data packets from reaching their destination and vice versa. With the results of this diagnostic, you can zero in on the specific network issue that’s causing your problem.

For Printix, this module serves as a tool for testing connections between devices and the Printix Cloud. If there are port problems that would prevent regular functionality, you’ll be able to spot the problem quickly. IT can then investigate the problem and implement a fix that opens the channels of communication. The module also ensures that devices can access the appropriate URLs, allowing Printix connectivity work.

This solution is available completely free of charge via the Marketplace. However, pre-sales consulting is a requirement. Tungsten Professional Services will take the time to learn about your scenario and can provide advice on how to best use the Port Checker effectively.

Find More Opportunities for Value in the Marketplace

The Port Checker is just one example of the useful solutions you can find in the Tungsten Marketplace. With both free solutions and paid options, plus available consulting, you can better position your business for success in complex automation projects. Leave antiquated processes in the past and discover new ways to speed up business and boost productivity.

Solutions such as ControlSuite and Printix put the power to reshape the way you work in your hands. Add in the Marketplace, and you can find ways to hasten your journey towards a positive ROI. Dig deeper and see what else you can achieve with these platforms and the solutions developed by our expert partners.