Many organizations use wireless endpoints to deliver improved communications for mobile users within the office. Implementing a Cisco Unified Wireless Network provides them with service that is more secure and reliable than a radio system, less expensive than traditional cell or smartphones, and allows users to be reached regardless of location.

Though this increased mobility can enhance efficiency, it also creates a challenge for E911. This is because many organizations run their wireless networks across a single large subnet and most E911 solutions only allow Emergency Response Locations (ERLs) to be identified by subnet. When 911 is dialed from an enterprise wireless phone, the PSAP receives the location information for the large subnet, within which the caller could be anywhere. Responders would have to search the entire subnet area to locate the distressed caller.

To help organizations deploy a CUWN and provide accurate E911 services, 911 Enable’s Emergency Gateway solves the problem of identifying the accurate location of wireless phones by associating ERLs with wireless access point Basic Service Set Identifiers (BSSIDs). Because BSSIDs are located throughout the enterprise, ERLs can be provisioned to identify a more precise location. The gateway periodically queries the WLAN controllers to determine which endpoint MAC addresses are connected to which BSSIDs. When 911 is dialed it uses the phone’s MAC address to look up the corresponding BSSID and ERL. This information is delivered to the PSAP, allowing the dispatcher to provide responders with a more accurate location for the caller.

The ability to provide detailed location information for wireless users can help improve outcomes when seconds count. Time spent locating callers within a large subnet area is eliminated with information based on the BSSID to which the endpoint is connected. This helps reduce response times and improve quality.

More at www.911enable.com.