What are the common issues associated with Business Wifi?

Frequent Business WiFi disruptions can take the form of sluggish speeds, inconsistent service, or complete loss of connectivity, leading to a measurable decrease in business efficacy.  

• Weak Signal Strength: Poor coverage areas or dead zones due to the WiFi router’s location or physical obstructions like walls.
• Network Congestion: Overloaded WiFi networks due to a large number of connected devices, leading to slow speeds and connectivity issues.
• Interference from Other Devices: Interference from other electronic devices such as microwaves, cordless phones, or neighboring WiFi networks.
• Outdated Hardware: Using older routers or networking equipment that can’t handle modern internet speeds or user demands.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Inadequate security measures leading to unauthorised access, data breaches, or network attacks.
• Limited Bandwidth: Insufficient internet bandwidth to support the number of users and their data needs, causing slowdowns.
• Improper Network Configuration: Incorrect settings or configurations in the network setup causing inefficiencies and connectivity problems.
• Firmware Issues: Outdated or corrupted router firmware that can lead to instability and performance issues.
• Physical Range Limitations: The limited range of WiFi signals, which can be too short for larger office spaces.
• Overlapping WiFi Channels: Overlap with nearby networks on the same channel, causing interference and reduced performance.

How can Telco Broker Help?

Rectifying WiFi challenges requires a blend of strategic planning and technical interventions. It all starts with an in-depth Wi-Fi analysis to diagnose existing issues. This step may suggest the addition of access points or WiFi extenders, or sometimes, a switch to a different internet service may be in order. 

Telco Broker can conduct a review of your current WiFi network, create a revised design to rectify the issues, we can provide you with a quote for both hardware and installation, we can oversee the commissioning and depending on the requirements provide you with monitoring tools which you can self administer, or we can assist on your behalf.

We can help you with the following:

• Upgrade to a Better Wi-Fi Router: Invest in a high-quality router with the latest technology (like Wi-Fi 6), which offers better performance and can handle more devices.

• Optimal Router Placement: Position the router centrally and elevated to avoid physical obstructions and maximise coverage.

• Use Additional Access Points: For larger areas, use additional access points to ensure consistent coverage throughout the space.

• Configure Channels and Bandwidth: Use tools to identify less congested channels and adjust the router settings accordingly. Also, consider using dual-band or tri-band routers that offer additional frequency bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz).

• Network Segmentation: Create separate networks for different user groups (e.g., staff, guests) to manage bandwidth usage more effectively.

• Regular Firmware Updates: Keep your router’s firmware updated to ensure optimal performance and security.

• Invest in a Mesh Wi-Fi System: A mesh system uses multiple router-like devices to create a seamless network covering a large area.

• Implement Quality of Service (QoS) Settings: Prioritise bandwidth for critical applications or devices that require stable and fast internet.

• Secure the Network: Use strong passwords, updated security protocols (like WPA3), and consider a VPN for additional security.

• Conduct Regular Network Audits: Regularly assess network performance, identify issues, and make necessary adjustments.

• Utilise Professional Wi-Fi Analysis Tools: Use professional tools for a detailed analysis of your Wi-Fi network to identify and address issues like channel interference or dead zones.

• Limit Interference: Minimise interference from other devices by keeping your Wi-Fi devices away from microwaves, cordless phones, and other electronic devices.

• Educate Users: Educate staff about responsible bandwidth usage to prevent network congestion.

• Upgrade Internet Plan: If your business has outgrown its current plan, consider upgrading to a higher bandwidth internet service.