If you’re in the process of planning a new building or office, it’s important to plan your network infrastructure accordingly. This will ensure that your employees have access to the internet and all of the files they need, whether they’re in the office or out on the road. It’s also important to have a reliable network cabling contractor who can help you set everything up properly. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the things you need to consider when planning your network infrastructure.
Are you moving into an office that needs new wiring throughout the building? Or maybe building a new office and need Ethernet cable installed? ADD Communications has helped companies all throughout the Tri-State and surrounding areas with their cabling needs, big or small.
Here is a simple guide on how to complete the network infrastructure build-out at a new office.
Network Infrastructure Planning
Step 1) Consider the Needs of the Business
The first step in adopting any technology for your business is to make a list of the demands that your network environment might have, such as:
- What is the maximum number of workstations, computers, and printers you need to set up?
- Will the workstations be desktop or laptop computers?
- What sorts of software applications will your firm use?
- What are your plans for sharing and storing your files?
- What level of wireless coverage do you need, and which wireless technologies should you utilize?
- Do you require VPN access for remote workers?
It’s also critical to think ahead so you can get the appropriate hardware for your company’s needs as it develops.
Step 2) Select Hardware Components
Hardware required is determined by the network design. Routers and switches are the two most critical pieces of equipment required when building a small office network. Most of the time, the two are confusing among small to midsize business owners.
Here’s what you’ll need to build a network infrastructure:
A Switch
A switch allows communication and sharing of information between multiple devices. For example, you may use an Ethernet cable to link desktop computers, servers, and printers. At ADD Communications, we install Cat 5e and Cat 6 (or higher) Ethernet cables with speeds up to 10GB.
Through a switch, your printers, servers, and computers can connect and communicate with each other. Switches are necessary to connect all of the devices together if you want to set up a company network.
Router or Firewall
A router or a firewall, on the other hand, serves as the director that directs network traffic across various networks, such as your local network and the internet, for example. It focuses on the exchange of information from the biggest network (the internet) to your company’s connected devices. It protects your devices against cybersecurity dangers, as well. The confusion between the two usually arises because a lot of routers or firewalls have the ability to convert multiple Ethernet ports to act like a switch.
When you start a network build-out for your business, you’ll need at least one networking device that can function as the firewall, switch, and access point. A network firewall connects your company to the network and protects data against security risks.
Step 3) Choose Your Office Network Type
Consider the amount of money you have for your network build-out, the sort of security you’ll require, and how you want to optimize your network in your office when selecting a network type.
Wired, wireless, and hybrid are the three primary kinds of office networks.
Wired Networks
Many professionals and businesses choose to go with wireless networks since they are more secure and require physical access. They are faster and more dependable than wireless networks, but each gadget must be linked to a switch or router via an Ethernet cable.
Wireless Networks
Wireless networks, on the other hand, enable everyone in the workplace to move freely because there are no cables involved. However, like sunlight, wireless signals can be absorbed, blocked, reflected, broken, and disturbed by other wireless devices as well as microwaves.
Hybrid Networks
Hybrid networks are another popular choice for any office network, combining Ethernet and Wi-Fi technologies. You’ll get the greatest of both worlds: quick, dependable speeds when you need them. Furthermore, you have the flexibility to shift about while maintaining data security. A hybrid network is the ideal answer if you need a wireless network’s convenience for your business and want to allow your workers to use a variety of devices.
Step 4) Determine Wireless Needs
It’s probably safe to assume that your office network will include some sort of wireless capability, so it’s critical to understand your company’s wireless requirements. The most important considerations are:
Bandwidth
What sort of data do you generally deal with? Is it web applications, large file transmissions, or primarily internet surfing?
If your company requires data storage, be it in the cloud or onsite, there’s a good chance your employees will need to move large files across the wireless network. Do you require the latest and greatest connectivity? Maybe you don’t require the fastest speed, but still want to be up-to-date with wireless standards. ADD Communications can help you assess your needs and pick the appropriate wireless access technology.
Number of Devices
It is important to consider the number of network devices that will be connected wirelessly. The number of devices plays a role in maintaining connectivity speeds since all of the devices connected will be sharing the same amount of bandwidth. More devices require additional bandwidth.
Coverage
The size of your workplace determines the amount of coverage you’ll need. Having a larger space translates into more access points being needed. Access points and wireless routers distribute signal coverage in all directions, so they should be placed closer to the core of your area for optimum broadcasting.
Security
Because wireless networks are vulnerable to brute force assaults, it’s critical to use strong alphanumeric passwords that include special characters. The authentication security protocol is important as well. WEP, WPA, and WPA-PSK are the most common security protocols.
Work With an Expert
Your network infrastructure and network infrastructure security are critical for both in-house operations as well as business development and expansion. Before making a decision or beginning the process, be aware of your company’s present and future requirements.
At ADD Communications, we offer network infrastructure services to enable network connectivity no matter the size of your business. Contact us today to discover more about how we can offer customized support to meet your company’s needs.
