Having a strong network is key to keeping your devices and company connected and your business running. Ensuring your network runs as fast as possible is a key step in the right direction for a more connected and fluid system.

1. Choose the right wired network for your needs.

The two types of networks are generally categorized under cable/wired networks and wireless networks. 

Wired networks are methods of connection that requires the devices to be tethered to the source of the network via a wire. Although it is the least convenient when it comes to movement as you must continuously be tethered to the source to be connected, wired networks provide higher connection speeds and higher security because the only way to connect to it is through a physical connection. 

Wired Networking Cable Types 

Wired or cable networking is best when you need fast speeds, more secure methods of connection and transferring information, and a solution with a long lifespan. When considering cable networking, you need to take several factors into consideration before choosing which types of cables to use for your network infrastructure. 

Think about what will be connected to your network. Cameras? Phones? Computers? What speed will you be needing? Here are the three different types of cable networking and how they can help keep your business connected: 

Coaxial: 

• Typically used for transmitting radio, video, and data signals.  

• Mainly connects televisions, radio transmitters with antennas, and the internet.  

• Very resistant to signal obstruction.  

• Complex to install.  

• Good for longer cable lengths between devices.  

Ethernet: 

• Typically used to connect WiFi routers to the internet or telephone lines.  

• Good for televisions, computers, IP and analog security cameras, and other devices.  

• Ideal for moving larger files.  

Fiber Optic: 

• Typically fiber optic cabling is good for transmitting data signals.  

• Widely used for many things, such as internet, telecommunication, and telephones.  

• Have become the standard for connection across buildings due to moisture and lighting resistance.  

2. Have the right equipment.

Once you select your preferred method of networking, you have to ensure that the equipment used to install your network will be enough to fit your needs. Choose the best solution for you that has the network speed, coverage, and consistency you need. 

For example, when creating a cable network system, the right cables, panels, IDS, and/or switches are important to consider. To learn more about cabling equipment and cabling basics, click here. 

For wireless systems, choosing the right router that emits a strong enough and consistent signal for your needs is essential to choosing the best wireless router for your business to help you stay connected.  

Depending on the speed, coverage, and consistency you need, here are a few good wired and wireless options for your network.  

Speed: 

Network speed measures the transfer rate of data from the source to the destination of a network. Whether you have a wired or wireless network, there are a few options that can help you get the network speed your business needs. For wired networks, Ethernet cabling will be good because it allows you to transfer large files across the network without slowing you down. If you are planning for a wireless network, WiFi signal boosters (i.e., repeaters and extenders) can help increase your network speed throughout your office space. 

Coverage 

Network coverage is the area covered by the network. No matter the size of your space, there are ways to ensure your business has the network coverage it needs. For a single building or office space, where a wired network might be your best option, an Ethernet HUB might be effective in ensuring coverage for multiple devices. An Ethernet HUB is a network hardware device that connects multiple devices to a create a single network segment. For larger spaces with conference rooms, Wireless Access Points (WAP) will be a great option to boost your wireless network coverage.   

Consistency 

Network consistency measures the continued efficiency of the network over a span of time. When you are looking at wired and wireless options, it is more important to look at the quality of cables and the location where your equipment will be placed. For wired networks, look for good and non-damaged cables that can handle your network needs such as Ethernet. For wireless networks, choose a good location for your WAPs and routers to ensure your network will consistently deliver the speed and coverage your team needs to be productive.

3. Gather quality information about your networking project.

When starting the process of installing a networking system at your office, it is important to plan for your project carefully. Even before you consult with a company that offers network services, it can be helpful to gather some information for your project to ensure the discovery and planning phases go smoothly and to ensure the company you hire can deliver the network services you need within your project timeline and budget.  

Before beginning a networking project, it is helpful to have the floor plans of your building on-hand, to understand the purposes for which your company will be using the network, to list the top three things you would like accomplished on this project, and to know the specifics of your timeline, budget, and technical requirements. After gathering your information, it is time to pick the company that will work with you and for you every step of the way of your project.  

At ONC National, we help you in the planning phase of your network services project by conducting a free project review or site-walk to discover what’s best for your project and your company. We will work with you to design a project to fit your needs and requirements and to deploy network services that are on-time and on-budget.  

4. Monitor your network speed.

Network speed can be inconsistent at times. With just the use of one application, it can speed up or slow down. Performing speed checks can help identify issues in your network’s hardware or software. Consistent monitoring, 24 hours a day, and recognizing sudden shifts in network trends can help prevent severe issues like outages and switch errors. 

Feeling like your network is underperforming? Let ONC National troubleshoot your network and provide simple solutions to get your network up and running again and your company back on track.  

5. Remove unessential connections.

Overloading your network with connections and applications causes the network speed to decrease significantly. Connections to your network can be made by printers, phones, computers, laptops, televisions, and other devices. Constantly monitoring your network and watching out for unnecessary connections and removing them keeps your network running at its best and fastest speeds.

Want to learn how network services can help your business stay connected?

Connect with us today to see how we can assist you with all of your network cabling needs.