The most common problems of corporate WIFI networks.

It seems that the wireless WIFI network is a faster and more secure solution than Internet “on cable.” Meanwhile. it depends. If it is incompetently configured and designed, it can rip and cause problems. How to prevent it?

WIFI wireless networks transmit data using radio waves, while cable network communications flow in the fiber and cable housing. WIFI communication can sometimes become a bit chaotic, so there are official regulations related to the frequency and power of radio waves. WIFI also has many advantages, such as mobility, flexibility, freedom of operation, and resistance to lightning. How to identify the source of the problem in the free operation of WIFI and fix it?

The 5 most common WIFI network problems in a company

WIFI network, in addition to its many advantages, is prone to interference. We have described 5 problems associated with this state of affairs, and the solutions below.

1. Inefficient and outdated router. The router is the “brain” of the local area network (LAN) and all the devices and cables located in companies (and homes). A router can be compared to a computer, as it has a motherboard, processor, RAM and storage. However, sometimes the router’s parameters are too weak, such as a 600 MHz processor and 128 MB of RAM. This could only work well in the presence of 1 computer and 2 smartphones and low network usage. It is also worth remembering that these parameters will consume not only the router, but also the built-in WIFI modem, so they should be higher.
2. Poor WIFI network layout. A feature of wireless networks is that they work well over short distances. A WIFI access point sends out radio waves that have a good signal up to 10 meters.
3. Radio wave interference. WIFI is often subject to interference, and it is caused by new WIFI points designed to boost the signal. In practice, however, too many of them, combined with wireless devices (keyboards, mice, speakers) and other outdated devices (non-modern fluorescent lights or an old kettle), have the opposite effect. Interference can also be caused by neighbors who use WIFI.
4. Inefficient link. Many providers compete on price and offer a link of, for example, 600 Megabits for $200, while more often than not, this type of WIFI does not meet expectations, as the real cost of a good connection consists of many parameters.
5. Lack of network monitoring. A well-designed and configured WIFI network is half the battle. Nevertheless, a local network is a bit like a living organism, so you need to work on it all the time. IT administrator is a very important function in a company.

7 solutions to WIFI network problems

1. High standard of the router. It is very important to conduct an inventory of all equipment, including the computer, and to emphasize performance. Only after a thorough diagnosis of the equipment can you set standards for purchasing a new device. It is best to choose a router with a frequency of min. 5 GHz, a throughput of about 20 Gbps with appropriate encryption and the router standard IEEE 802.11n, or fifth generation. You need to use a specialist to properly configure the router in accordance with current security rules.
2. Good WIFI network layout. You need to look at the space as a whole, including high ceilings, walls, corners or any barriers that further reduce the signal range. Moreover, you need to measure the actual distance of the room, not “across the floor.” In a situation where the computer does not have direct visibility of the network, it is worth deploying access points (Access Point). If the network is extensive, careful placement and measurement of signal strength by an experienced professional is needed.
3. Diagnosing radio wave interference. As in the previous point, it is worth investing in a good-quality WIFI APeki along with a controller to diagnose problems.
4. Fiber-optic Internet. The best solution is fiber optic, which is more stable and resistant to outside interference. Fiber optic cable uses glass fiber to transmit the Internet. It also has guaranteed packet delays and packet losses, availability time and contact to service in case of failure. You need to remember to make a good choice of router, which is crucial to the operation of WIFI Internet over fiber.
5. Network monitoring. The company’s network should be looked after by an administrator who will be on duty, including at night. His duties include monitoring, maintaining the network, inspecting hardware, updating software and fixing failures and, above all, preventing them.

All points are very important, as they affect network performance, security, good business performance and company credibility.

Fiber-optic Internet at ITH

Fiber optics can transmit data over longer distances than any other network medium. Fiber optics transmits a signal with much less attenuation and is completely immune to electromagnetic interference, unlike copper wires.

We offer fiber-optic Internet as well as hosting, cloud computing, network security and telephony. ITH is a provider of telecommunications services for startups, large and small businesses and all kinds of public institutions. We encourage you to use the services of our specialists.