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Key features to look for in an office Wi-Fi routerYour choice of a Wi-Fi router can make all the difference in creating a reliable and high-performance network for your workplace. If you want to experience seamless connectivity, here are some of the key features you must consider when selecting an office Wi-Fi router. Internet service provider (ISP) compatibility Before diving into the technical details, […]

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13 Sep, 2023 / by Complete Technology Resources / in 2023september13hardware_b, beamforming, channels, device prioritization, Hardware, isp compatibility, mesh system, mu-mimo, network connectivity, qos, security features, single router, speed, wi-fi bands, wi-fi router, wireless protocol category
Key features to look for in an office Wi-Fi router

Your choice of a Wi-Fi router can make all the difference in creating a reliable and high-performance network for your workplace. If you want to experience seamless connectivity, here are some of the key features you must consider when selecting an office Wi-Fi router.

Internet service provider (ISP) compatibility

Before diving into the technical details, it's essential to ensure that the router you choose is compatible with your ISP. Check with your ISP for a list of supported routers or consult their website for recommended models. This ensures a smooth setup process and proper functionality.

Single router vs. mesh system

An important decision with your Wi-Fi setup is choosing between a single router or a mesh system. Single routers are just that, one router installed in the office that's responsible for providing internet access to multiple devices.

Meanwhile, a mesh system is a network setup that uses multiple interconnected devices (nodes) to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout a larger area, effectively eliminating dead zones and providing seamless connectivity.

Generally, single routers are suitable for smaller office spaces with fewer devices, while mesh systems are ideal for larger offices with multiple floors or rooms.

Speed

The router's speed, measured in megabits per second (Mbps), determines how quickly data can be transmitted and received. For most offices, a router with a speed of at least 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) is recommended. However, if your office relies heavily on data-intensive tasks, consider a router with higher speeds, such as 2.4 Gbps or even 5 Gbps.

Wi-Fi bands and channels

Most Wi-Fi routers feature two frequency bands, measured in gigahertz (GHz): 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band is favored for its wider coverage area but it’s more susceptible to interference, while the 5 GHz band offers swifter speeds at the cost of slightly reduced range.

Dual-band routers provide access to both of these frequencies, whereas tri-band routers introduce an extra 5 GHz band to enhance overall performance. A dual-band router is generally sufficient for most office environments.

Additionally, routers should allow you to configure and select channels manually. This minimizes the risk of connectivity drops due to interference from nearby networks.

Wireless protocol

The wireless protocol your router uses can significantly impact performance. Look for routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). Wi-Fi 6 offers improved speed, capacity, and performance in dense office environments, making it a smart choice for future-proofing your network.

Security standards

Security is paramount for office networks. Ensure your router supports robust security features, including WPA3 encryption and advanced firewall options. Regular firmware updates are also crucial to address potential vulnerabilities. For added security, consider routers with guest network capabilities and VLAN support to isolate guest traffic from your main office network.

Device prioritization

Quality of Service (QoS) is a feature that essentially prioritizes network traffic from specific services and devices over others. This is vital in an office setting, where voice and video calls, as well as critical applications, need uninterrupted bandwidth. Look for routers with QoS settings that let you easily manage priority levels for specific devices and applications.

Multi-user, multiple input, multiple output (MU-MIMO)

MU-MIMO technology enhances router capabilities by allowing it to communicate simultaneously with multiple devices, effectively reducing network congestion and leading to improved overall performance. When selecting a router, opt for one with MU-MIMO support, especially if your office has numerous devices connecting to the network concurrently.

Beamforming

Beamforming technology directs the Wi-Fi signal in the direction of connected devices, enhancing their reception and increasing data transmission speed. This feature helps eliminate dead spots and ensures a more stable connection. Routers with beamforming capabilities are worth considering for better coverage and reliability.

Choosing a router for your office is a critical decision to ensure seamless connectivity and performance. But if you're overwhelmed by the number of features and options, we can help. Contact us today and let our experienced team of experts guide you to the ideal Wi-Fi router for your needs.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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Cut your IT costs by investing in thin and zero clientsCutting costs is great for business, but only if doing so does not reduce the quality of your company’s products or services. You can achieve this kind of compromise in your IT system, too. Instead of investing in expensive computer hardware, you can opt for affordable but powerful thin and zero clients. What are thin […]

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24 Jan, 2022 / by Complete Technology Resources / in data breach, desktop, energy consumption, Hardware, hardware cost, management, thin client, virtual desktop, zero client category
Cut your IT costs by investing in thin and zero clients

Cutting costs is great for business, but only if doing so does not reduce the quality of your company’s products or services. You can achieve this kind of compromise in your IT system, too. Instead of investing in expensive computer hardware, you can opt for affordable but powerful thin and zero clients.

What are thin and zero clients?

Thin clients are stripped-down computers with minimum processing power and memory. They rely on a basic operating system (OS) and a network connection to access a more powerful server where almost all computing processes take place. This server must be purchased separately or rented out in the cloud.

Zero clients work the same way as thin clients. The only difference is that there’s no local storage or OS installed on the device; all the software, storage, and processing power sits on a server until you need it. In intensively cloud-based systems, utilizing zero clients is ideal for cutting costs.

What are the benefits of using thin and zero clients?

Thin and zero clients offer a whole host of benefits, such as:

Reduced hardware costs

If you want computers with low upfront costs, choose thin and zero clients. Conventional desktops start at $600 per user, while thin clients can go as low as $250 per user. And since they have no hard drive or other moving parts, the latter tend to be more durable and have a longer life span than their traditional counterparts.

Minimized security risks

Thin and zero clients also help you prevent costly malware attacks and data breach incidents. They reduce security risks by having no facility for holding apps. That is, users can’t install any risky and unvetted programs on these machines. Furthermore, thin and zero clients limit direct access to the OS. This prevents employees from copying sensitive data to removable media and installing software, malicious or otherwise, on the clients’ server.

If your thin or zero client is damaged or corrupted, you don’t have to worry about your data, as it’s stored in a separate server.

Simplified IT management

Another benefit of thin and zero clients is that they can be managed by your IT team or managed IT services provider from a server. Suppose a new software update is released. Instead of manually downloading the patch on each computer, you can simply install the update on your server and roll it out to all the clients. Apart from installing updates, you can also make backups, security configurations, and application deployments in the data center. This quickens setup, reduces downtime, and increases employee productivity.

Decreased energy consumption

Traditional desktops process data locally, thereby requiring more power and generating more heat than thin or zero clients. This results in huge power and cooling bills. In contrast, thin and zero clients consume only 4 to 6.5 watts of power, almost 1/50th of thick client requirements. They also require little to no cooling, allowing you to enjoy significant cost savings. And, as a bonus, they’re practically silent, which makes them conducive to a more relaxing work environment.

Do not overlook thin and zero clients if you’re searching for ways to cut costs without compromising outcomes. The reduced hardware costs, power bills, and security risks are just too good to pass up.

If you’re still unsure about this technology, give us a call. We’ll assess your tech needs and determine whether or not thin or zero clients can help you succeed.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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Simple tips to give your home Wi-Fi a boostMore people are working from home these days, which means a fast, reliable Wi-Fi connection is vital. If all the home Wi-Fi boosting tips you’ve seen on the internet have been to no avail, it’s probably time to take a look at the hardware you’re using. You might need wireless repeaters and additional access points. […]

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11 Jan, 2022 / by Complete Technology Resources / in 2022january5hardware_b, access point, ethernet, Hardware, home network, modem, router, wi-fi, wireless network, wireless repeater category
Simple tips to give your home Wi-Fi a boost

More people are working from home these days, which means a fast, reliable Wi-Fi connection is vital. If all the home Wi-Fi boosting tips you’ve seen on the internet have been to no avail, it’s probably time to take a look at the hardware you’re using. You might need wireless repeaters and additional access points.

Both wireless repeaters and access points are simple and inexpensive, and getting either or both of these devices can improve your home Wi-Fi connection.

Wireless repeaters are devices that extend the limited reach that Wi-Fi routers tend to have, especially in structures with thick walls and multiple floors. They receive a signal from a Wi-Fi router and rebroadcast it as a new network. This new network is an extension of the main network, enabling the signal from your router to be transmitted over long distances or to the other side of obstructions, such as a wall, post, or ductwork.

On the other hand, access points are devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a network. Your router at home is actually an access point, and while most access points have built-in routers, others have to be connected to a router. Access points are usually hardwired to network switches or modems.

Getting started

Before you go out and buy these devices, conduct a survey of the Wi-Fi signal throughout your home first. This will help you map out where to place repeaters and access points to maximize your Wi-Fi connection. This involves:

Determining the reach of your router. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app, such as NetSpot, Wifi Analyzer, or OpenSignal.
Locating dead zones, or areas that don’t get a Wi-Fi signal, in your house. This can usually be solved by moving your router or modem to an area where the signal is better.
Checking for obstructions (e.g., walls, furniture, plastics, water, etc.) and sources of interference (e.g., baby monitors, microwave ovens, radios, etc.). Any of these may be blocking or slowing down your Wi-Fi connection.

Based on your analysis, identify the best places to put the repeater and access point. For instance, if your router is in the living room and you can’t get a good signal in your bedroom down the hall, place the access point outside the living room and the repeater in the bedroom. The signal will be extended by the access point and picked up by the repeater, which will then broadcast it to nearby devices. Note that wireless repeaters must be set up in areas where the signal is poor, not in dead zones.

Setting up wireless repeaters and access points

Most brands and models of wireless repeaters and access points follow the same setup process.

Wireless repeaters

  1. Choose a location free from obstructions that can block signals from your Wi-Fi router.
  2. Plug the repeater into a power outlet.
  3. Using an Ethernet cable, connect the repeater directly to a computer. You can also connect the computer to the repeater’s wireless network.
  4. On your computer, enter your Wi-Fi network’s password.
  5. Any other steps to setting up your wireless repeater should be in the manufacturer’s instructions.

Access points

  1. Choose a location free from obstructions that can block signals from your Wi-Fi router.
  2. Turn off your router or modem and computer. Connect your access point to your router or modem and to your computer using an Ethernet cable.
  3. Turn on your router or modem, and plug the access point into an electrical outlet.
  4. Turn on your computer, and start enjoying better Wi-Fi performance.
  5. Any other steps to setting up your access point should be in the manufacturer’s instructions.
  6. You can also change optional and advanced router settings by connecting to your router using the IP address provided in the manual, or either 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.

If you need more information about setting up and getting the most out of your wireless network, whether at home or in the office, get in touch with our experts today.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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A handy guide to keeping computers and mobile devices cleanKeeping work PCs and mobile devices clean not only encourages people to be more organized, but it also prevents glitches and downtime due to poorly maintained hardware. It also contributes to immaculate workspaces, which may positively affect employee morale. If you want your workstations and devices to look spick and span, here’s how to get […]

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15 Dec, 2021 / by Complete Technology Resources / in 2021dec15_hardware_b, cleaning a computer screen, cleaning a keyboard, cleaning a screen, cleaning computers, cleaning mobile devices, cleaning phone screens, Hardware, Office category
A handy guide to keeping computers and mobile devices clean

Keeping work PCs and mobile devices clean not only encourages people to be more organized, but it also prevents glitches and downtime due to poorly maintained hardware. It also contributes to immaculate workspaces, which may positively affect employee morale. If you want your workstations and devices to look spick and span, here’s how to get started.

Desktop monitors

You spend several hours looking at your computer monitor, so it's important to make sure it doesn't have any dust or smudges. To clean your monitor, turn it off first and gently wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth.

If there are still spots, try dampening the cloth before wiping but make sure you don’t spray water onto the screen. Don’t press too hard on the display, as this could damage the pixels on the monitor. Also, don’t use paper products like napkins or tissues, as they can leave a residue and scratch the monitor.

Mobile screens

Mobile devices will usually accumulate fingerprints. The best way to clean your mobile device’s screen is to wipe it down a microfiber cloth. For tougher spots, dip the cloth in a small amount of water and then gently wipe the screen. Don’t splash water onto the device itself, as the liquid could get inside and damage internal components, which can void your warranty.

Some people suggest rubbing alcohol to remove fingerprints and disinfect the device. While this will work for some screens, many manufacturers advise against this because the alcohol can wear down the protective film on some devices.

If you find dust or gunk in the edges or cracks of your screen, take the device to a mobile shop for more thorough cleaning. Do not open the device yourself, as this could also void the warranty.

Keyboards

Debris and dirt can accumulate between the keys of your keyboard. Before you start cleaning your keyboard, be sure to unplug it. Then gently run cotton swabs dipped in water or rubbing alcohol over the keys.

To remove dirt between keys, you can use a keyboard brush or compressed air, which can be purchased at most office supply and computer stores. Spraying compressed air in between keys should be enough to get rid of most of the dust and grit.

Computer mice

Similar to the keyboard, mice can get quite dirty with grime from dust and your fingers. To clean a mouse, unplug it then use cotton swabs dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Computer towers

Before you start cleaning your computer towers, disconnect the power source and all wires to avoid short-circuiting.

Next, take a slightly damp microfiber cloth and wipe down all sides. Be careful when cleaning the front and back, as these parts house sensitive ports and components.

Dust can also clog up cooling fans, causing them to stop working properly. This can potentially lead to other components overheating. To clean the insides of your computer tower, remove the casing with a screwdriver. Then, use a brush or short bursts of compressed air to remove accumulated dust.

Making sure your computer is clean and running optimally is important to staying productive at work. If you want more advice on how to optimize your IT, our technicians are here to help. Call us today.

Published with permission from TechAdvisory.org. Source.

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