Yes, MikroTik's CAPsMAN (Controlled Access Point system Manager) system can be used in a city to centrally manage a network of wireless access points (APs).

This system is quite scalable and adapts well to large deployments, such as in a city, where multiple APs dispersed in different locations need to be managed.

We explain how it could be useful in such a scenario:

Benefits of Using CAPsMAN in a City

1. Centralized Management: CAPsMAN allows you to configure and manage all APs from a single interface. This simplifies administrative and technical tasks, such as updating firmware, changing configurations, and monitoring device status.
2. Configuration Consistency: Ensures that all APs have consistent configurations, which is crucial to maintaining quality of service in an extensive network. This prevents connectivity and performance issues that can arise from inconsistent or erroneous configurations.
3. Scalability: CAPsMAN is highly scalable, allowing more APs to be added to the network without complicating management. This is ideal for a city where the network could expand over time to cover new areas or provide greater coverage density.
4. Security Improvements: Centralizing the management of APs also improves network security. Security policies and access can be managed and monitored centrally, reducing the risk of misconfigurations or undetected security vulnerabilities.
5. Performance Optimization: CAPsMAN allows performance adjustments and load balancing between APs, which is crucial in high-demand areas, such as shopping centers, transportation stations, and other high-traffic points in a city.

Considerations for Implementation in a City

• Network Coverage and Planning: Before implementing CAPsMAN, it is necessary to carry out a detailed study to properly plan the location of the APs and ensure optimal coverage throughout the city.
• Network Infrastructure: A robust network infrastructure must exist to support communication between the CAPsMAN controller and the APs. This may include wired or wireless connections with sufficient bandwidth and low latency.
• Power Source and Environmental Conditions: It is important to consider the reliability of the energy sources and the environmental conditions where the APs will be located to ensure their continuous and efficient operation.
• Support and maintenance: Maintaining a network of this scale requires a robust technical support and maintenance plan to quickly resolve any issues that arise.

Using CAPsMAN in a city to manage a network of APs offers many advantages in terms of management, security and operational efficiency, making it an attractive solution for municipal administrations or private companies that operate large-scale networks.