Table of Contents:
1: Consumer class vs Business class routers
2. Factors to look for when choosing a router
3. Determine the right router for your business needs
4. Router Quoting-Installation Process
One piece of hardware, the router, serves as the central component of all fundamental operations in the intricate network of linked devices. A router, also known as a gateway or firewall, is the initial line of defense for your network and has a different function than a modem.
A router is usually sold by Internet service providers (ISPs) as part of their offerings. Sometimes, they combine it with an Internet Gateway, which is a combination of a router and a modem. While it may seem efficient to combine these two components into a single, handy package, doing so typically means compromising the high caliber and extensive feature set that a stand-alone router can provide.
As we dig further into the field of routers, it is clear that the choice of this modest tool can greatly affect the security, general efficiency, and performance of your corporate system. This article will analyze their function in the digital ecosystem and show you why choosing the correct router is critical to the well-being of your company’s network.
Part 1: Consumer class vs Business class routers
A lot of businesses make the mistake of selecting the least costly or most well-known router without first determining if it meets their needs or will withstand constant use.
Basic home routers, which are meant for daily use in modest installations, are ideal for light operations such as internet browsing, email checking, and video streaming. Unfortunately, they’re not designed for the needs of a hectic business environment with high traffic and multiple connections. While they include basic features such as access to WiFi and a firewall, they lack higher-level security. Choosing the wrong sort of router might lead to poor speeds, connection troubles, and security risks. They are typically less expensive but may provide limited customer assistance because production facilities prioritize business-class routers.
In contrast, business-grade routers are designed to meet the needs of both major corporations and small to medium-sized businesses. They can manage more users and higher network traffic, resulting in improved overall performance. These routers also include extensive security capabilities such as content restriction, encryption, and threat detection to help safeguard sensitive data. Many models contain features such as Quality of Service (QoS), VPN support, and VLANs. While they are more expensive than standard routers, their robust features and specialized customer support make them an excellent investment for most enterprises.
Part 2: Factors to look for when choosing a router
Businesses must be able to manage important router functions or, at the very least, have total insight into their router’s configuration. Many ISPs offer managed routers, but you often have to contact them to make adjustments or comprehend your current configuration.
Here are some aspects to consider while choosing a router:
1. Network Performance
Your router acts as a bridge between your business’s IT devices and the web. The ideal router should provide the necessary speed and bandwidth to meet your network’s demands, guaranteeing a smooth and continuous data flow. This is especially critical for enterprises that have many clients, devices, and data-intensive apps set up.
2. Security
Routers play an important part in your network’s security infrastructure. A high-quality router includes advanced security features such as firewalls and systems for preventing attacks and VPN capabilities. These features contribute to the security of your network against cyberattacks and unwanted access.
3. Scalability
As your company expands, so will your network needs. Scalable routers may support more devices and users while maintaining performance. This scalability is critical to avoiding congestion in networks and slowdowns as your organization grows.
4. Quality of Service
Some routers come with a feature called Quality of Service (QoS), which lets you control how internet bandwidth is shared. This is particularly helpful for companies that use tools like video conferencing, live webinars, or other real-time communication. QoS makes sure that these important activities get the bandwidth they need by giving them higher priority over less urgent tasks, helping everything run smoothly without interruptions.
5. Remote Access
Secure remote access has become increasingly important as remote work grows in popularity and more individuals use mobile devices. Routers with VPN capability enable employees to securely connect to the company’s network from any location, making it easier to work from home or on the road.
6. Reliability
A router should enable your business to function smoothly and uninterrupted. Choosing a reliable brand known for consistent performance will help you avoid common technical issues and reduce downtime, saving you both time and money.
7. Support and Updates
Well-established router brands typically release firmware updates on a regular basis to fix security issues and enhance functionality. Choosing a router from a reliable manufacturer means you’ll benefit from continuous support and maintenance, helping to keep your network secure and performing at its best.
8. Compatibility
Routers vary in their features and compatibility. It’s important to choose one that works well with your current network setup and connected devices to prevent disruptions caused by incompatibility.
9. Manageability
Your IT team should also have the ability to control the router remotely. Remote access-enabled routers may cost more initially, but they will save you time and hassle. Make sure your IT staff have the knowledge to manage and troubleshoot the router system from any location.
Take some time to assess your company’s requirements and purchase an excellent-quality router to act as the core of your organization’s network.
Need help? Schedule a FREE consultation with Gravity IT Solutions. Your network’s safety and functionality are our priority.
Part 3: Determine the right router for your business needs
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing the best router for your company. Your first step is to fully understand the bandwidth needs of your company. It includes every device linked to your network, including PCs, VoIP phones, and mobile devices, and it goes beyond just counting the number of employees. Consider the number of cloud apps, online meetings, and hours spent on the internet each day. For at least the next three to five years, you should be able to easily update your broadband connection to meet your personal needs. Overestimating is always preferable to underestimating when in doubt.
Determine how much your company relies on wireless access. Are your staff mostly using Wi-Fi, or do they have wired connections? If you do a large amount of work via wireless connections, you’ll need a router that excels at Wi-Fi performance. Determine how many wireless access points are required throughout your office. Consider a variety of networks, such as guest Wi-Fi and point-of-sale (POS).
In several areas, such as healthcare (HIPAA), finance (PCI DSS), and personally identifiable information (PII), regulatory authorities frequently require specialized network security measures. If your firm handles sensitive data, your router should meet certain compliance criteria. Ensure that your router supports the essential security protocols, data encryption standards, and access restrictions required by your industry’s legislation.
Your company insurance policy may require you to implement specified network security measures in order to be eligible for coverage in the event of a cyber incident. Your router should, at the very least, meet these requirements; otherwise, you risk losing your insurance coverage.
If you need detailed logs of network events, such as user activity, traffic patterns, and security issues, your router should have this functionality. This functionality helps with incident identification, investigation, and compliance reporting.
Part 4: Router Quoting – Installation Process
Choosing a router for your business isn’t as simple as a quick online pick; it’s a methodical process comprising five critical steps:
1. Assessment of Needs
The IT service provider will ask you the questions laid out in part 4. After verifying your internet requirements and completing the router sizing tool, they will generate an estimate of usage expectations, security prerequisites, and network infrastructure type.
2. Router selection and quotation
The IT service provider selects a router model that aligns with your needs and specifications. A formal quotation is prepared, which outlines the chosen model, its features, pricing, and any additional services you might require.
3. Quote and Needs Review
The IT service provider discusses the provided quotation and addresses any queries you might have. Further customization may be added to the quote to satisfy specific requirements, such as VPN or refining QoS parameters.
4. Finalization of Quote
Once you are satisfied with the router selection and customization, the quote is finalized, and the IT service provider proceeds with the procurement of the router.
5. Pre-configuration
The IT provider configures the router for your needs prior to delivery. The initial stages include configuring basic network settings, security settings, and wireless functionality
6. Installation
The service provider gets to work installing the router on-site, setting up network parameters, fortifying security measures, and establishing any desired functionalities.
7. Testing
The testing phase follows, examining network connectivity, conducting security audits, and assessing performance to ensure everything is operating seamlessly.
8. Deployment and Training
Once testing is successfully completed, the router is deployed. The IT service provider may offer training to your in-house IT team on router management and maintenance. The router you select has a significant impact on the overall performance, security, and operation of your company’s network.
We at Gravity IT Solutions are available to assist you. After taking the time to learn about your company’s requirements, our knowledgeable staff will suggest the best router for you. Additionally, we will take care of the setup and ensure that everything is safe and secure.
To begin, get in touch with Gravity IT Solutions right now!
