Your computer network is critical to your business. It keeps your applications and internet service connected to your computer systems. Without it, the communication of data between computers would not happen, which could impede normal business operation.
There are two main types of networks: wired and wireless. As the names denote, wired networks use cables to connect systems while wireless networks send data signals through the air to connect. More and more companies are adopting the use of wireless networking solutions because they offer many benefits. The top five advantages are listed below.
- Wireless Networks Are Scalable
One of the main goals of small businesses is growth, but if your network can’t grow with you, it will cause problems. When you use cables to connect your machines, growth means moving, adding or rerouting cables every time there’s a change. This can be a time-consuming and tedious process, but it’s one you can avoid with an infrastructure wireless network. If someone needs to be added to the wireless network, a new user must simply be created on the server. Similarly, if an employee moves desks or the company changes locations, there are no wires to manage, unplug and plug in again somewhere else.
- Wireless Networks Can Be Used by Guests
Do clients ever come to your place of business for meetings? If so, having a wireless networking solution provides them the ability to work and access information they need while in your office. As well as making the sharing of information easier, it offers a nice convenience for guests visiting your office.
- Wireless Networks Are Mobile
If you have to attend meetings throughout the day and want to take your laptop, having wires can be inconvenient. Every conference room or office would need to have multiple ports to plug your cable in and you have to take your wires with you everywhere you go to be able to access online information. When your network is wireless, you can move about the office using any device without interrupting your connection.
- Wireless Networks Work With Multiple Devices
Whether your device of choice is a laptop, phone or tablet, you can connect to the network with a simple click. This is convenient for visiting partners or clients, as well as employees who need to accomplish different tasks throughout the day, such as taking notes or checking email in between meetings.
- Wireless Networks Increase Efficiency
Using a wireless network can increase productivity for a lower cost. Because of the increased mobility, employees can collaborate and share information wherever they need to and even take action in meetings instead of just taking notes and doing it later. Additionally, the cost to install and maintain an infrastructure wireless network is much less than the wired alternative. A large, wired network requires purchasing cabling and paying for labor to have it run throughout the building, plus additional costs long-term when cables need to be added or replaced.
While wireless networking solutions aren’t right for every business (e.g., employees work individually on a desktop and never need to leave their desks), they can offer helpful benefits to many. Before having a network set up, weigh the differences between the two types of systems and make the best choice for your business needs.
