The demand for wireless connectivity is booming. The rise in this demand has made most businesses feel the need to reconstruct their enterprise networks. With so many wireless networks available in the market, how do you get the right one for your company? All you need is proper planning and a little bit of research to find a network that best suits your organization’s needs.

Benefits of using a wireless network

What are the benefits of utilizing a wireless network in your business? Compared to traditional networks, wireless networks can offer you the following advantages:

1. Increased performance

Advances in wireless technologies mean faster transmission of information between your mobile devices and your network and Internet resources.

2. Broader coverage

You can easily extend your wired network to places in your company that would not traditionally be accessible via wires and cables including outdoors.

3. Flexibility

You can easily connect non-wireless gear to a wireless network via USB and M.2 peripherals.

4. Scalability

You can configure and customize your wireless system to suit the requirements of your organization’s current and future wireless needs.

5. New opportunities

Having a wireless network allows you to provide new free services to your clients in guest waiting areas.

Downsides of wireless networks

Even though a wireless network provides many benefits, you need to consider these potential cons:

• Will be slower in speed when compared to wired networks.
• In situations where many devices will be connecting to the network, the quantity, configuration, and placement of access points becomes critical. Poor planning can make wireless networks unreliable when compared to wired networks.

Wireless Network Considerations

An effective wireless network should offer world-class security, excellent performance, centralized management, and great coverage. The following considerations will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a wireless network.

1. Intelligent Management

Poor wireless service arises for many reasons. Radio frequency (RF) interference from other wireless radios is one reason. Improper configuration and too much wireless power can also cause connectivity issues. Technologies like Dynamic Radio management can help remedy this situation. In addition to detecting other RF sources and tuning the network automatically, these components also adjust power to maximize wireless coverage. Business-class wireless vendors can automate patching and updates to access points reducing security risks and eliminating operational issues that come up.

2. Wireless security

For most companies, especially companies that comply heavily with regulations and prioritize data privacy, network security is essential. Unfortunately, many consumer-based wireless equipment doesn’t meet all the security measures such as encryption and intrusion prevention systems. Therefore, you should pick a vendor that stays on top of current Wi-Fi security standards. It’s important to set up a logically separate public and private wireless network that segments work from guest data.

3. Coverage and Density

You have great wireless coverage when your cell phone, iPad, or notebook shows full signal strength. Wireless density is how many devices in a specific area need Wireless service at the same time. Both are important when designing a Wireless Network.  Before implementation, ensure you carry out a wireless site survey first to identify the following:

• Location of dead spots
• High traffic places
• Peak coverage needs
• What type of devices will need Wireless connectivity
• Evaluate environmental variables that can affect wireless transmission. Concrete walls, Metal Doors, etc.

4. Cloud or onsite wireless controller

The role of a wireless network controller is to configure, communicate, and coordinate all access points in a network. These controllers come in two types: cloud-based and on-premise. Each type of controller comes with pros and cons. A cloud-based controller can manage the wireless network over the internet without having to be at the location of the access points. Configuration of additional access points is a snap. Conversely, on-premise controllers are physical devices that are located where your wireless network lives. To make changes you would need direct access (in person, or over a secured remote connection) to your wireless controller. When given a choice cloud-based is the way to go.

5. Service quality 

Today, most companies use VoIP technologies and video conferencing software like Zoom, Teams, WebEx, etc. to conduct business with other partners and hold meetings with geographically separated workers. However, such activities’ success depends on clear video and audio. Therefore, you need to ensure your enterprise wireless network provides high-quality service and focuses on voice features. As a result, you will need to prioritize VoIP and video conferencing traffic over the network and throttle guest wireless access to ensure a reliable connection.

Bottom line

With so many wireless solutions out there, you can find it challenging to choose the best one for your business. Therefore, it would be best to get a professional to help you review your options and make recommendations that will suit your business needs and budget. Resist the urge to purchase a consumer-grade solution for your business needs. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or visit our website to learn more about our technology services.