Imagine running a company that has no trouble getting its brand in front of the right audience. It also has a motivated team and plenty of unique products and services to offer.
However, you can’t seem to handle your information technology obligations. Problems like these are one of the many reasons why around 20% of US businesses fail within the first year.
Without the right business network configuration, you risk getting poor results and creating unnecessary risks. The good news is that network setup is easier than many people anticipate. Let’s explore the key information you should keep in mind when moving forward.
Determine Your Network Type
The steps you take to configure your business network will vary depending on the type of network you use. Your company’s ideal network will depend on your needs.
For instance, businesses that need the highest download and upload speeds can benefit from wired connections. For situations where flexibility is more important, wireless networks are often the better choice.
One of the best ways to determine which network type you should use is by examining similar businesses. Chances are that companies of a similar size to yours in your industry will use the network you should also implement. Listed below are some of the most common network types small businesses use.
Wireless Networks
This network type is renowned for its ease of use. Since you don’t have to deal with cables, you can freely move around devices that wirelessly connect to your network.
You can even improve your network’s signal by using a wireless repeater. This allows you to substantially extend your network’s overall range. However, this network type is often slower than alternatives.
In some cases, other devices can interfere with your network’s performance. Microwaves tend to cause issues for many people.
Wired Networks
As previously mentioned, many business owners choose wired networks when looking for the fastest possible performance. Not only do these have high speeds, but they’re also notably secure.
This extra security stems from the fact that the network is fully contained as opposed to wirelessly accessible. A major drawback, though, is that you’ll require more hardware. Purchasing additional hardware can quickly add up, and it’s often impractical for small businesses to do so.
Hybrid Networks
As the name implies, hybrid networks use a combination of wireless and wired networks. The primary benefit of doing so is leveraging the benefits of both network types while minimizing the drawbacks.
To use a hybrid network, you’ll need a specialized hybrid router. This broadcasts a wireless signal and contains wired access ports. Due to the type of hardware required, it can be expensive to utilize a hybrid network.
Install Your Network
Once you’ve decided what network you need for your business, you can move forward with installation. You’ll likely need help from your IT department when doing so.
At the very least, they can make sure there aren’t any areas of concern. If you don’t have an in-house IT team, consider using outsourced IT.
Set up Your Router
For your network to connect to the Internet, you’ll need to use a router. This is a device that facilitates an Internet connection between the web and the devices on your network.
Most routers are notably simple to configure. They come with straightforward, comprehensive instructions on how to get started. More often than not, you can set one up quickly by installing software and following the prompts.
Connect the Modem to the Internet
This process is similar to connecting your router to the Internet. In some cases, it’s identical.
Chances are you’ll use software to install the required files for your modem to operate on your network. After this step, your network should be fully functional.
Configure Your Firewall
Even though you can connect your network to the Internet at this point, you’ll still need to secure your connection. Setting up your firewall is essential for protecting yourself against hackers.
You can choose to manually allow or block certain applications from passing through the firewall. This is ideal for situations where you want to reduce the risk of hackers procuring information from certain programs.
For instance, a database full of customer information that doesn’t need to be remotely accessed shouldn’t have access to the Internet. This jeopardizes that information’s safety.
Work with a Professional
One of the best ways to get started is by working with a professional. They have the resources and tools required to get the right results. Not all firms are created equal, and you’ll need to check their past reputation.
This will provide valuable insight into the type of results you’ll get. Pay attention to how they respond to negative feedback so you don’t make the wrong choice. If they get defensive or aggressive when faced with criticism, continue your search elsewhere.
Pricing is another key attribute to consider, as you often get what you pay for. It’s never recommended to go with the cheapest option you find.
It’s worth noting you also don’t need to spend as much money as possible. Somewhere in the middle of the price range can help you meet your needs without overspending.
Their level of experience is also important. Ideally, you’ll find a firm that’s been around for at least a decade. This helps guarantee they understand your project’s nuances.
Do they seem interested in your project? Enthusiasm goes a long way toward getting the right results. You can assess their level of interest by paying attention to how many questions they ask about your company.
If they don’t care to learn more, look for alternative options. With enough diligence, you shouldn’t have an issue finding managed IT services in Tucson, Arizona.
Never Neglect Your Business Network
Your business network is one of the most important aspects of running a successful company, and it’s imperative to take the right steps toward configuring it. The information in this guide will help ensure you make the right decisions for your needs.
Looking for other tech information that can help you run a better company in the future? Our blog has plenty of articles like this one. Be sure to check them out today!
Wayne Probert is a senior reporter at Zobuz, covering state and national politics, and he is a grantee with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. Before joining Zobuz, he worked as a freelance journalist in Kentucky, having been published by dozens of outlets including NPR, the Center for Media.
