IT

Why Businesses Should Implement WI-FI Technology

wi-fi-iphoneThe days of everyone working 9 to 5 at their own desk in an office are long gone and clever businesses know how important it is to be able to get online regardless of location. Wireless technology makes it happen; laptops, smartphones, I Pads and tablets all give you the option to work on the move.

More and more businesses are driven days by computer technology and make use of the internet to conduct and promote their business. Even a few years ago a ‘wireless network' was seen as a nice to have business extra that sounded a bit ‘futuristic' but more and more business are now choosing a wireless solution as their primary network. Experts are questioning if wireless technology will eventually replace the cabled networks we are all familiar with as more and more businesses move towards Wi-Fi.

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi, the shortened version of Wireless Fidelity, allows you to access the internet without the need for cables. Instead the data is exchanged electronically via radio waves passing between an electronic device, for example laptop, smartphone or tablet, and the computer network or a high speed internet connection.

What are the advantages of Wi-Fi?

There are several advantages to using Wi-Fi due to the lack of cables themselves. In the office you're not tied to sitting at your desk and can still access your network when sitting in a meeting room. If you're travelling on business you can carry on working by accessing a Wi-Fi hotspot ; these days most hotels, cafes, trains and airport lounges offer Wi-Fi access (which is often free). Visiting a client premises you'll still be able to send emails and access your company files and resources which could let you make a vital decision during the meeting.

How do I get Business Wi-Fi?

Once you realise how important Wi-Fi is you need to think about how you'll implement it within your own business. Are you going to allow all employees access, how many employees do you have? Do you want to allow visitors to access your wireless too (you can set up a guest wireless connection)? What equipment will you need and what electronic devices do you already have that will need to work with the connection? It's a good idea to get some expert advice from a business broadband provider who can guide you through the options. They can recommend and install Wi-Fi not only in the office but also provide access to Wi-Fi hotspots when out and about. Bear in mind that it's likely that in the future wireless may completely replace cabled networks and ensure that you put in place a structure that will carry your business forward as seamlessly as possible.

What electronic devices connect to Wi-Fi?

If you want your employees to be able to work as flexibly as possible it's a good idea to consider investing in laptops, tablets and smartphones for them to use instead of fixed PCs and telephone lines. By using these portable devices they'll be able to connect whilst on the move, work anywhere in the office or at a client site and even work from home. Consider the business benefits in giving employees greater flexibility to work from any location; they can respond to a customer email that could be the difference between winning and losing a new deal. This way of working has even given birth to it’s own terminology, bring your own device is now a widely used phrase in the business world and is often shortened to BYOD in emails.

If cabled networks become a thing of the past will your business be able to cope? Be ready for the future and install business Wi-Fi today.

If you have any questions, please ask below!