Often business owners first see the value of their wireless equipment upgrade for the office when they realize how it facilitates user options for each family member at home.

Mikrotik Router Equipment upgrade

Once they upgraded to WiFi at home, there was no more jockeying for computer use. One family member could binge-watching shows on a tablet, while others were gaming or uploading photos to social media, or viewing sports in another part of the house. Installing WiFi equipment in lieu of wired, immediately enabled the use of a variety of devices throughout the home, desktops, laptops, Smartphones, tablets, streaming media such as Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, and even Smart TVs.  If you are thinking about the benefits this technology will bring to your business office but have not yet grasped the fine details, GNS Wireless presents what to know before you source your WiFi equipment.

WiFi Equipment Upgrade 101

Here’s what you’ll need to know about routers. The chief difference is size, and need is determined by the speed and signal range (output) your business requires. There are two main types of wireless routers (although one is quickly outpacing the other), –802.11n and 802.11ac. 802.11ac is faster, although they are more expensive than 802.11n. There are also dual-band routers, such as Netgear’s AC1900 Wireless Gigabit Router (R7000) which supports either 802.11n and 802.11ac frequencies.  

Another consideration is the construction of the building. Signal degradation must be avoided, however, aluminum studs, insulation, glass, as well as brick and stone can create interference. Generally, for businesses that occupy more than one floor and these floors are separated into rooms, a router with a long-range and strong data throughput at a distance is recommended. Router placement is centralized so that is also a consideration.

Additional information one should know is that despite a router being designated as ‘high speed’, data only moves as fast as the slowest connection. Service providers do offer faster connections, usually up to 100mbps, which usually resolves this issue. Do you allow some clients online access? If so, an equipment upgrade with a guest network can ensure that they do not encounter security roadblocks when they sign on. Speaking of security, routers can be encrypted which is also something to think about for businesses that are in close proximity to others, especially in a congested urban setting.

GNS Wireless has extensive experience assisting business owners to upgrade their network equipment to WiFi. For solid advice as to the best WiFi equipment for your business, contact the professionals at GNS Wireless. Our staff will listen to your business requirements and recommend the best WiFi network solution to suits your requirements and your budget. Speak with us at (877) 209-5152, or submit your request via our contact form.

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