Wireless Internet connectivity is an indispensable utility in today’s modern office. However, implementing one that will perform optimally is far from a straightforward task. Here, we wanted to offer you some tips to make the planning process for your Wi-Fi implementation both simpler, and more productive.
Know Your Needs, and How Your Devices Can Fit
Take a full inventory of your business’ Internet connectivity requirements before you do anything else. Figure out a few things:
- How many people need access to the Internet?
- Which, and how many, devices will need to be connected?
- Which of these devices could be hardwired?
- What is your anticipated Internet usage for each person?
- What online processes will each person need to complete?
Having an estimate based on considerations like these will give you a ballpark figure to base your plans on. This leaves you in a more informed place to make decisions about your necessary equipment and wireless network configuration.
Think About Your Access Point Placement
Did you know that your wireless access points may not work as well if they are placed in one spot as compared to another? While common advice says to put your router in your office’s most central location, this isn’t always the most effective way to establish a consistent wireless signal everywhere it is required. It is often better to place your access points where you will have the most demand for a connection. Part of this is making sure that there are as few obstacles and other sources of interference that could impact your signal strength as possible. The presence of HVAC vents, wiring, and other devices will impact whether your router functions best mounted on the wall, on the ceiling, or simply placed on a desktop.
As you try out different configurations, make sure you test your Wi-Fi strength with each one. Plenty of mobile applications are available that will allow you to do this, so make sure to confirm that you’re using the best signal possible.
Take the Things Outside Your Business into Consideration
Finally, you need to remember that factors other than simple obstacles can interfere with your wireless network. Two access points could be competing with one another, especially if they both operate on the same wireless channel. This goes for the routers in your business, and even those in any businesses that may neighbor yours.
Your business’ Internet signal doesn’t have to be a fickle thing. Macatawa Technologies can draw upon its years of networking experience to assist you in optimizing it. Find out more about what we can accomplish for your IT by calling 616-394-4940.
