Tip of the Month: Setting Up a Powerful Wi-Fi Network

Every business has to choose how they network their office. Most businesses choose the ease and convenience of wireless networking to allow their employees the freedom to use their mobile devices, IoT tools, and other devices. This month, we look at some of the best tips for setting up your organization’s Wi-Fi network. 

Setting Up Your Wireless Network

Anyone who has set up a wireless network in their home or for their business knows that it is a pretty simple process overall. Unfortunately, most Wi-Fi networks aren’t optimized for business speed. Here are a few best practices for setting up a totally optimized Wi-Fi network.

Choose the Right Router 

A high-quality router is the foundation of a strong Wi-Fi network. When selecting a router, consider factors like coverage area, speed, and features. For small businesses, dual-band routers that operate on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies can offer better performance and reduce interference.

Optimize Placement

The location of your router significantly impacts Wi-Fi signal strength. Place it in a central location, away from obstacles like walls and large metal objects. Avoid placing it near other electronic devices that might interfere with the signal.

Secure Your Network

Protecting your Wi-Fi network from unauthorized access is crucial. Use a strong WPA3 password and enable network encryption. Regularly update your router's firmware to patch security vulnerabilities.

Manage Bandwidth

Monitor your network's bandwidth usage to ensure it can handle your business' demands. Consider upgrading your internet plan or optimizing your network settings if you notice excessive bandwidth consumption.

Benefits of Following Wi-Fi Best Practices

Let’s take a brief look at three of the most stark benefits of structuring your Wi-Fi network with today’s best practices:

• Improved productivity - A strong Wi-Fi connection allows employees to access necessary tools and resources efficiently, boosting productivity and reducing downtime.
• Enhanced customer experience - For businesses that rely on Wi-Fi for customer service or online transactions, a reliable network is essential for providing a positive and seamless experience.
• Improved security - A well-configured Wi-Fi network with strong security measures can help protect your business from cyberthreats and data breaches.

If you need help finding the hardware or setting up your business’ wireless network, the IT experts at Preferred can help. For any and all of your technology needs, give us a call at 708-781-7110.