Wireless technology

Choosing and implementing a wireless network involves matching options to your needs, planning the rollout and evaluating results. This ensures reliable connectivity that supports your business without unexpected costs or disruptions.

Wireless networking options for small businesses

In most cases, your options will be:

• Standard Wi-Fi access points - these connect devices to your office network. They are good for laptops, phones and printers in meeting rooms or open spaces.
• Wireless bridges or mesh systems - these extend coverage to areas without cables (warehouses, outdoor areas). Ideal for larger premises or multiple sites.
• Guest networks - separate Wi-Fi for visitors, keeping your main network secure.

For mobile workers, consider mobile phone data networks (4G/5G). These can secure company access when employees work remotely or travel, and are better and safer than public Wi-Fi and hotspots.

Plan your wireless network rollout

Consider these practical factors in the planning phase:

• expertise required to manage the network and train staff
• training costs, how many staff need it, and how long it will take
• cultural impact, such as staff working remotely or in hybrid patterns
• integration of fixed and wireless systems (and personal devices) on your network
• standardising hardware and security across all equipment
• increased data traffic from mobile devices

Implement your wireless network

Typically, implementation will require you to install the hardware and configure the necessary settings, then test coverage and speeds across your site before full launch.

Encourage employee involvement and feedback during setup, and roll out any necessary training on usage, security and troubleshooting. It can also help to form a cross-departmental team to oversee rollout, manage change and ensure buy-in across the business.

You may also need to update any existing policies - for example, bring your own device policy - with secure access rules. When your network goes live, monitor performance to ensure smooth operation.

Evaluate the impact

After rollout:

• track and review the impact of the network on your business against your original objectives
• gather feedback from staff, customers and suppliers on usability, speed and any issues
• review performance after six months and one year - measure metrics like uptime, data usage and support calls, then tweak settings or expand coverage as needed

If you're not sure which networking solution would best suit your business, get advice from your IT provider or business adviser. In Northern Ireland, contact Invest Northern Ireland for ICT guidance tailored to local businesses.

Finally, consider wired networks instead wireless ones for high-security areas (such as servers and payment systems), heavy data transfers (video editing, large files) and where maximum speed and reliability is needed.