SA's Asimmetric rebrands as Cape, launches new Wi-Fi monitoring tool

Asimmetric launched in February 2015 with its Wi-Fi monitoring tool, allowing Wi-Fi providers to manage the user experience on their network. Earlier this year, the startup raised a seven-figure dollar funding round from three United States (US)-based early-stage hardware and Internet of Things (IoT) investment firms, allowing it to launch operations in San Francisco.

Since raising funding, the startup has decided to rebrand from its original name to Cape – reflecting the origins of the company in Cape Town, and also pointing to the simplicity of the startup’s solutions.

Cape has launched an all-new Wi-Fi network and application quality monitoring tool to market, the Cape Sensor and Dashboard. The Cape Sensor monitors Wi-Fi network and application performance 24/7 by behaving like a real user and reporting issues in real-time before users complain. The Sensor is easy to install, and includes useful features such as mobile connectivity and power backup; making it equally suitable for remote offices and locations.

Cape says the accompanying new Dashboard is the simplest Wi-Fi dashboard for IT and network professionals. It is cloud-based and does not require on-premises installation.

“With just five main traffic lights, the dashboard is radical departure from traditional monitoring tools. Network managers can see consolidated network issues at glance. Instant, rich hovers and drill-downs enable rapid, remote troubleshooting,” the startup says.

As internet connectivity becomes a crucial service for people the world across, Cape says the importance of network monitoring, being able to identify problems, and overall user experience is paramount – prompting the design of the new product.

“Wi-Fi has become a mission critical service for millions of people, but remains plagued by anecdotal complaints of issues that are difficult to diagnose, making life difficult for IT and network professionals,” says David Wilson, co-founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of Cape.

“Most network tools are intimidating, aimed only at experts, and don’t actually measure performance from the perspective of end-users. If users experience any kind of problem – with DHCP, DNS, captive portals or applications – they think ‘the Wi-Fi sucks’,” Wilson says.

“IT and network professionals need a simple way to assure their Wi-Fi network and applications are working perfectly for users.”

The Cape Sensor and Dashboard is a complete redesign of the startup’s previous Wi-Fi monitoring tool; and is available to order as of today here.