Managed WiFi is often a business choice that allows an enterprise to outsource many of the mundane tasks involved in configuring, securing, maintaining, upgrading and maintaining a business’ WiFi network to a third-party service provider. A managed WiFi service offers many of the benefits of having your own wireless router such as the flexibility to determine what equipment you require, the control over certain aspects of the network, the ability to fine tune your hardware and software for optimal performance, the ability to seamlessly integrate with your existing IT infrastructure, and the ability to seamlessly communicate with the wider internet community. However, with a managed WiFi service, you are still responsible for managing your network and hardware inventory, as well as the provisioning of new hardware and software. This article covers some of the main considerations and decisions to make before choosing a managed WiFi provider.

Managed WiFi solutions offer a number of different ways to connect to the internet.

Some of these options include access points, wireless cards or repeaters, smart card readers, and wireless bridge devices. Typically, users will opt for access points that allow them to connect wirelessly to their laptops, desktop computers, smart phones or other portable devices that have wifi capabilities. Some managed wifi providers also provide wireless bridges that allow multiple computers to connect to the internet using a USB or other wireless device. However, it is usually recommended that business owners go with a dedicated provider that offers plug and play functionality with specific hardware and software.

Before choosing a managed wifi services provider for your business,

it is crucial to consider the type of wireless network design that will be required for your operations. Typically, a client will request a quote from an internet service provider (ISP) based on their premise of operation. The quote will specify the technical setup required, including access points, wireless network cards, routers, repeaters and additional hardware and software. A good managed wifi services provider will work closely with a client to ensure a proper setup that meets the needs of the business. In addition, the managed network services provider will help with the design of an effective network to meet expected traffic flow and capacity.

There are several factors that must be considered when choosing a managed wifi network provider. First, there is the need for adequate bandwidth and speed. Businesses often utilize mobile web applications, streaming media, video conferencing, and voice over internet protocol (VoIP). All of these require a robust and speedy internet connection for optimal performance. Businesses should evaluate the available data plans offered by various managed wireless services providers to ensure adequate bandwidth and speeds are provided.

Network monitoring is also another important feature in a managed wireless network plan. Businesses that use mobile devices to connect to the internet may also need help desk support in the form of wireless networks monitoring. Wireless help desk can provide information on wireless networks that may affect employees that visit the connect desk via their mobile devices. These reports can also help address issues such as unavailability of certain wireless networks at certain times of the day.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a managed wifi solution is how fast the network connection is. Businesses often have peak hours when data usage is highest. If a managed wifi solution does not provide a suitable service level, this could lead to poor utilization of data. Businesses should evaluate the average download and upload speeds offered by each managed wifi solution. To ensure that the managed wifi network provides satisfactory performance, users should check the server time to server time ratio.

Businesses that use mobile devices and want to set up managed wifi networks should look for a provider that provides mobile device management services. Some managed networks offer automatic updates and security alerts for security-related issues that arise. This helps to reduce the cost incurred because many of these companies provide their clients with an in-house consultant who can monitor and manage the managed networks. A third party company might also be preferred for managed networks that have high traffic or have a large staff concentration. These companies can provide better customer service experience since they are experienced in dealing with various business concerns. However, there are downsides to using a third party company for managed wifi security.

Wireless devices that travel long distances have potential to cause interference. To avoid issues such as these, a company might want to consider purchasing its own wireless equipment.

• Purchasing an appropriate router for a business operation might require some research to ensure the purchase is made based on the type of technology used and the business operations.
• Purchasing routers can be done through retailers and online stores.
• The internet can also be a good source for purchasing routers and related accessories.