Having the latest technology can be crucial for the success of your business; however, when it comes to wireless technologies, it’s essential to consider both sides of it. Do you need a traditional Wi-Fi network or an upgraded wireless mesh network?
It depends on your business, so let’s break down both sides.
Both traditional Wi-Fi and Wireless Mesh Networks offer wireless solutions for your business. However, as technology upgrades and the demand for faster and more robust Wi-Fi continues, it’s essential to know the differences and when to leap from a traditional Wi-Fi setup to a Wireless Mesh Network for your business.
The Way The Networks Are Arranged
For starters, looking at the topology or how the networks are arranged is essential.
A traditional Wi-Fi network has all devices connected to one central access point. This access point is responsible for controlling all traffic.
In a Wireless Mesh network, the devices work together and relay the signal to other devices. This allows more flexibility and more coverage within the network. This means there are no dead spots or dropped signals throughout your business.
A Scalable Network & Wireless Coverage
Depending on your business needs, having a scalable network can be crucial. What is a scalable network? One that allows you to continue to build upon it while not adjusting the stretch of the Wi-Fi signal.
A traditional Wi-Fi network can do only so much. This may be okay for smaller businesses that don’t require many devices or a strong internet connection.
However, with a Wireless Mesh network, you can add more nodes throughout the network, improving coverage without significantly reducing performance. It also extends the Wi-Fi coverage a lot further than a traditional network. This makes Wireless Mesh networks suitable for large spaces, outdoor areas, or environments with obstacles.
For example, Longacre IT installed a MESH network with three nodes and one extender to cover an entire 5,000-square-foot interior and parking lot. This allowed us to extend the wireless to a house across the street from the originating building and network.
If a wireless MESH access point goes down for any reason, the network will self-heal itself and continue to broadcast the signals. This differs from a traditional Wi-Fi network, where the area becomes a dead zone without Wi-Fi if one of the devices goes out.
Installation
While a Wi-Fi network might seem like the default way to go, it’s important to note that careful planning must ensure all areas of your business are covered.
A Wireless Mesh network offers more flexibility as the different nodes can be moved as needed. This allows for change in the building structure and makes it much easier to expand the network.
Does My Business Need a Traditional Wi-Fi Network or a Wireless Mesh Network?
Wireless Mesh Networks are quickly becoming the new standard for businesses.
If you are running a business or a business that relies heavily on technology, a Wireless Mesh Network is the way to have a fast, reliable internet connection to keep your business running smoothly.
At Longacre IT, we offer consultations on upgrading your wireless network. Contact us for more information and to schedule a meeting to ensure your network is solid for everyday business activities.