A reliable network is a key component of successful and productive business operations. Constructing a network setup to suit your small business, however, can be a demanding process to go through alone. If you’re in the midst of developing a workplace connection setup, consider the following tips for setting up your small business network. With a proper layout and knowledge of how to curtail common network issues, your business and its productivity are boundless.
Know the Dimensions of Your Floor Plan
You’ll need to have a comprehensive understanding of your floor plan to determine the following:
- The number of workstations that are feasible within the space
- Where cabling will run and for how long between devices
- Optimal location for equipment installations
Understanding your floor plan to a tee will help ensure all your IT equipment orders are accurate. You don’t want to end up over or under-purchasing network necessities for your workspace.
Select an Internet Provider
Research various internet providers in your area. Select which one will work best for your connectivity needs and the volume of people that will be working under your internet. Determine which internet service provider is right for your small business based on the monthly cost, upload speed, and your network building budget, as well.
Inspect Your Electrical Outlets and Network Jacks
Before installing tons of IT devices, you must assess your workspace’s electrical outlets and network jacks. Don’t just check for these items to inform your network layout but check them to assess their safety.
Inspect the efficacy of your office’s outlets and jacks. A fried outlet will be of no use to the computers, printers, and monitors that you need to plug in, and they pose an electrical fire hazard.
Acquire the Right Equipment
Once you’re comfortable with your workspace’s layout and your small company’s network needs, begin to gather the gadgets. Entrust an IT professional to provide further tips for setting up your small business network, such as selecting the right cables, routers, and other connection tools for your system. The following items are common components of a well-rounded network setup.
- Firewall/router
- Network infrastructure (cabling)
- Cabling management accessories
- Network switch
- Wireless access points or extenders
- Computers Servers
Don’t forget to equip your startup with adequate cybersecurity. As you establish your company’s reputation, the last thing you’d want is for sensitive information to get intercepted.