Wireless technology

Before choosing a wireless network for your business, assess your specific needs first. This will help you tailor the solution to your exact business demands, avoiding poor performance and preventing wasted spend on mismatched kit.

Wireless networking needs analysis

Focus on the following areas to carry out a networking needs analysis:

• Coverage - the area where you plan to operate the wireless devices. This can help you determine the number and location of wireless LAN access points.
• Mobility - how will users move through the coverage areas, and will the wireless signals be reliable throughout?
• Security - consider the level of protection that your networked data will need against certain threats. This will help you decide if you need to add particular components or technologies to your setup, eg wireless encryption.
• Compatibility - think about your existing systems, application and databases, and make sure that your wireless LAN solution is compatible.
• Users and devices - decide how many users and devices, and what type of devices, you wish to connect via the wireless LAN. You should also consider your funds and make sure that you choose a solution that is within your budget.

Steps to determine your networking requirements

Think about:

• goals - for example, more flexibility or staff satisfaction
• measurable targets for what you want to achieve - eg cost savings
• how technology can improve operations or enable new products and services

Then:

• Consider what sort of wireless solution you need. Are there sites where installing cable networks would be a problem - eg listed buildings? Are there employees, such as salespeople, that require mobility?
• Talk to other businesses that have implemented wireless solutions.
• Think carefully about the security issues, such as the potential for 'hackers' or competitors to access or modify your company data.
• Compare the costs of wireless communication (such as software, installation and maintenance) with the business benefit you expect to get. If the main benefit is more efficient working, is the increased efficiency worth the cost?

You may wish to get advice from IT consultants on scoping, budgeting, rollout and training.

When evaluating your networking needs, also consider your customers' and business partners' systems. If you are aiming to work wirelessly with them, ask yourself:

• Do your processes align with their wireless standards and tech setup?
• Are you restricting access by supporting only specific devices or protocols?
• Can your network integrate easily with theirs, or will it need adapters or custom configuration?

Understanding their needs will ensure smooth business-to-business links, like shared inventory apps or guest portals, without later rework. Find out how to assess your networking needs and requirements.