Best Wi-Fi solutions for a business: Equipment tips

Finding the best Wi-Fi solutions for business doesn’t have to feel like a scavenger hunt. Unlike home equipment, enterprise-grade hardware is made to handle more traffic and cover larger areas while keeping your network secure. But how do you know which equipment is the right choice?

We’ll pull back the curtain and discuss:

• Components of a successful business Wi-Fi network
• What to consider when selecting the equipment 
• Challenges when setting up Wi-Fi for a business
• A few tips to keep your network on track and operational
• Why Meter’s NaaS is the best solution for your business Wi-Fi needs

Key components of a business Wi-Fi network

Designing effective business Wi-Fi solutions requires the right equipment to keep everything connected and running efficiently. Enterprise networks need to handle a heavier load and offer better security than what you'd expect from a home setup.

The following are key components you must consider when planning a Wi-Fi network setup:

• Access Points (APs): Distribute Wi-Fi signals throughout the workspace, allowing devices to connect to the network.
• Routers: Direct network traffic, connecting devices within the network and managing the flow of data to the Internet.
• Switches: Connect devices within the local network and help manage data flow between them, essential for efficient communication.
• Controllers: Manage multiple APs, especially useful for larger setups.  
• Modems: Link the business network to the Internet through the ISP, an essential bridge between external connectivity and the internal network.
• Network Interface Devices (NIDs): Mark where the ISP’s network ends and yours begins, serving as the handoff point between your connection and the ISP’s.
• Cables:
  • Ethernet cables (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a): Connect various network devices and support specific speed and bandwidth needs.
  • Fiber optic cables: Connect data centers or extend network reach with high-speed, long-distance data transmission. 
  • Coaxial cables: Connect modems to the ISP.
• Backup power supply:some text
  • Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Keep network devices running during short power outages.
  • Backup generators: Provide power during extended outages to maintain business operations.
• Power management units: Distribute and monitor power, protecting equipment from surges and overloads.
• Data center or server room infrastructure:some text
  • Cooling and ventilation: Control the temperature to keep equipment running efficiently.
  • Rack organization: Structured racks organize network hardware like routers and switches for better access and maintenance.
  • Security measures: Physical security features, such as access controls and monitoring systems, protect critical infrastructure.

Knowing what you need is one thing. But how do you go about choosing the correct equipment? What exactly should you be looking for in terms of current and future growth?

How to choose the right access points (APs)

Choosing the right equipment involves selecting the best Wi-Fi access point (AP) for your network. Doing so involves considering several features designed for enterprise demands. Coverage, capacity, and security are fundamental, but a strong business AP has a few more elements that can help future-proof your setup and keep it performing well over time.

Eliminate dead zones in your workspace

To make sure Wi-Fi reaches every part of your workspace, start by checking your office layout. In an open area, one strong AP might handle everything. But as soon as you add walls, cubicles, or multiple floors, a single AP won’t cut it. Most large or multi-floor offices need several APs placed strategically to avoid dead spots where signals weaken or drop.

For outdoor spaces, like patios or warehouse loading zones, choose APs built for outdoor use. These models can handle rain, heat, and dust without faltering. After all, it’s frustrating to lose Wi-Fi every time the weather shifts! Outdoor APs keep things steady, no matter what’s happening outside.

Keep up with added devices

Capacity is a big deal when choosing an AP for a business. It’s not just about the number of people but the number of devices each person brings. Think about it: phones, laptops, tablets—all wanting a piece of the Wi-Fi. And it doesn’t stop there. Businesses often have IoT devices like cameras and smart locks connected too, each taking up bandwidth.

Enterprise access points keep things running even in high-demand areas like lobbies or conference rooms. They don’t get overwhelmed when lots of people connect at once. Some APs can even prioritize traffic, so essential tasks, like video calls, stay smooth, even during peak times. The right AP keeps everyone connected, devices included.

Secure to withstand business demands

Strong security isn’t optional for enterprise APs. WPA3 encryption is a must, especially when handling a lot of users and devices. Each connection gets its own layer of security, which keeps outside users from peeking in on network traffic. WPA3 is particularly helpful in busy office settings, where countless devices need safe access.

Many APs also support VLANs, which let you split up the network into secure “mini-networks.” This keeps guest traffic separate from core business data, like giving guests a hallway pass instead of access to every room. It’s a simple way to keep visitors from roaming where they shouldn’t.

Some APs also offer advanced monitoring, alerting IT to any potential threats. This early warning system gives IT a chance to respond fast and keep everything under control. It’s like having an extra set of eyes on your network.

Set up for growth without growing pains

Planning for growth means picking APs that can handle tomorrow’s demands as easily as today’s. A big plus here is Wi-Fi 6 support, which keeps your network fast, even as more devices connect. As your team adds devices, Wi-Fi 6 helps avoid the dreaded slowdowns that can make even a quick task drag on.

For easier management, look for APs that work with centralized controllers. These controllers allow IT teams to adjust settings, send updates, and manage security across all APs from a single dashboard. This setup cuts down on time and hassle. IT can handle updates or adjustments from one place instead of racing around to each AP.

Pro tip: Meter offers these features in our security appliances that were designed especially for these demands.

Get Wi-Fi where it’s needed

Beamforming and MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output) are amazing for busy networks. Beamforming acts like a guided spotlight, sending the Wi-Fi signal straight to a specific device rather than spreading it everywhere. It gives the connection a boost and reduces those annoying weak spots.

MU-MIMO allows multiple devices to connect at once, reducing wait times in high-traffic areas. Think of it as having more checkouts at a busy store. Instead of devices taking turns to connect, everyone gets access at once, which keeps things moving.

Together, these features keep Wi-Fi fast and steady in areas with lots of users. For any packed office or shared workspace, APs with beamforming and MU-MIMO make all the difference.

Meter takes care of business Wi-Fi without the fuss

Picking APs for your business network can get complicated fast. But Meter makes it easy. Our Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) includes APs with the performance, security, and management features your business needs.

No need to stress over models, setups, or maintenance—we handle everything. From choosing the right APs to getting them installed and running, we make sure your network is ready to go. And as your business grows, Meter scales with you, so you can focus on what’s important while we keep your network going strong.

What to consider when selecting routers

A router is central to your business network, controlling data flow and keeping devices connected. The right router should support your current speed needs, secure your data, and adapt as your network expands. Here’s what to look for to keep your network reliable and ready for growth.

Stay ahead with a speed-savvy router

Your router has to match your internet speed. In a business setting, that means choosing one that’s fast enough to handle all your team’s online activities—whether that’s video meetings, big uploads, or constant cloud backups. If the router can’t keep up, you’ll see everything slow down.

A router with multi-gigabit ports (usually 2.5 Gbps or even 10 Gbps) is a good bet. It’s like choosing an office space with room to grow; even if your speed needs are modest now, faster connections are often needed down the line. Going with a high-speed router from the start keeps you covered for today’s tasks and tomorrow’s plans without needing an upgrade.

Protect your network from every angle

A router doesn’t just connect your team—it’s the main security guard for your network. To keep it safe, pick one with strong security features like built-in firewalls and VPN support. VPN capability adds encrypted access, so remote workers can connect securely from anywhere.

Firewalls are another must. They filter out unwanted traffic and stop unauthorized access, which means fewer risks from cyber threats. And since nobody wants to worry about constant updates, a router with automatic firmware updates is ideal.

These updates keep security fresh without needing hands-on adjustments. With threats evolving fast, staying protected without extra effort helps keep your team safe and your network moving.

Adapt as your business grows

Your router should be able to keep up with a growing business. Routers with flexible setups let you add capabilities like faster modems or higher-range models as needed. It’s like adding new tools without buying a whole new setup.

Cloud-based management also makes life easier for remote teams or multi-office setups. With cloud monitoring, IT can adjust settings, check performance, and fix issues from anywhere—no need for someone on-site. This keeps network settings consistent across locations, making everything feel connected.

A router with these features helps your network stay flexible and ready to adapt as your needs change.

Keep your network steady, even when the internet wavers

Businesses that can’t afford to lose Internet will find dual-WAN and load-balancing routers are a good choice. A dual-WAN router connects to two Internet sources, so if one fails, the other keeps things running.

Load balancing takes this a step further by splitting network traffic across both connections. It keeps the network steady and avoids slowdowns, even at busy times. The setup keeps teams relying on cloud apps, video calls, or remote work online. A load-balancing router makes sure connection issues won’t stop your team from working.

Switches for a business network

Switches are the coordination hub of your network, linking devices, coordinating traffic, and keeping data flowing. But choosing the right switch for your business isn’t only about today’s needs. It’s also about planning for how your network might change, expand, or evolve over time. Here’s what to keep in mind as you consider your options (and why “the future you” will be grateful you did).

Divide and conquer with network segmentation

Switches let you divide your network into sections, which we call network segmentation. Why do this? Picture your guest Wi-Fi and employee network running side by side. Without segmentation, things get crowded. Guests streaming videos and workers sharing files are all vying for the same resources, causing slowdowns and security risks.

Network segmentation lets you keep these groups separate. Guest traffic stays in one lane, and employee data is in a protected “VIP lane.” The setup keeps sensitive data secure and makes sure each part of the network works as it should.

Segmentation is also handy for companies with many departments, like finance, HR, or customer service. Each department’s traffic can stay in its own space. Managed switches make segmentation easy, letting you set up these lanes to keep traffic flowing securely across your network.

Future-ready with room to grow

A network should flex right along with your business. If you’re bringing on new team members, adding smart gadgets, or planning a new office wing, your switches need to keep up. Think of it as future-proofing—without the tech headaches.

Look for switches designed with flexibility in mind. Scalable switches make it easy to add more capacity as you grow, without having to swap out hardware every few years. Managed switches are a solid option for this, offering a dashboard where you can monitor traffic, adjust settings, and even troubleshoot issues from a single screen.

Scalable switches are ready for whatever’s next, whether it’s doubling your devices or handling that unexpected surge in traffic. Adding a few more switches later on? Not a problem—just snap them into place, and your network’s capacity expands, no teardown required.

Power and data, one cable does it all

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a quick fix for devices that need both power and data like:

• Access points
• IP cameras
• VoIP phones

With PoE, one cable handles it all, so you don’t need extra outlets. This is a huge help in spaces where adding outlets would be expensive or plain impossible.

PoE also keeps things flexible. Need to move an access point? Easy. With PoE, you don’t have to mess with electrical work—just relocate the cable. If fewer wires, simple setups, and easy power management sound good, PoE switches are an obvious choice.

What types of cables are essential for a business Wi-Fi setup?

Building a solid business Wi-Fi network starts with choosing the right cables. Cables don’t get a lot of attention, but they make a huge impact on network speed, reliability, and future scalability. Here’s a rundown of the main types, so you can pick the ones that keep up with your network’s demands.

Ethernet cables

Ethernet cables connect nearly everything on a business network, from access points to switches. In business environments, Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a are the top choices, each bringing something different to the table.

Cat5e cables are good for smaller networks with moderate speed needs. It supports up to 1 Gbps and does fine over shorter distances. Cat5e might save a few dollars, but it could struggle as demands increase.

Cat6 is common in many modern offices. Cat6 manages up to 10 Gbps over short distances (around 55 meters). It’s less prone to interference than Cat5e, making it a strong middle-ground choice.

Cat6a is built for businesses looking to future-proof. Cat6a handles 10 Gbps over longer distances, up to 100 meters. It’s a solid investment for a network that’s expected to grow or support heavy data loads.

Fiber optic cables

Fiber optic cables carry data at high speeds by using light signals, making them ideal for connecting:

• Buildings
• Data centers or,
• Covering long distances

These cables aren’t affected by other electronic devices, which is ideal for busy areas with lots of equipment.

Single-mode fiber is great for large networks, like campuses, since it covers long distances. It may be more than a smaller setup needs, though.

Multi-mode fiber works well within a building or between close buildings. It’s more affordable and meets the needs of most business networks where extreme range isn’t required.

Coaxial cables

Coaxial cables may seem a bit “retro” these days, but they’re still the standard for connecting modems to the Internet. While they’re not used much in internal networks anymore, coaxial cables are the link between your network and your ISP, delivering the internet right to your door.

Modems and network interface devices (NIDs)

Modems and network interface devices (NIDs) keep your business connected and online. Each piece has a simple yet critical role in linking your network to the internet and keeping the connection steady. Here’s a look at how each works to strengthen and support your network.

Modems

A modem connects your business to the Internet, translating data between your ISP and devices. Here’s what to consider:

• Make sure your modem works with your ISP, as incompatibility can cause serious connectivity issues, especially with fiber.
• A combined modem-router might save space, but having separate devices makes future upgrades easier.
• Choose a modem that handles your internet plan’s speed and your busiest times.

A little planning on these points can save you major connectivity trouble later.

Network Interface Devices

NIDs mark the point where your ISP’s network stops, and your network starts. They may be small, but they make managing your network easier:

• Technicians can diagnose issues without entering your internal network.
• NIDs keep an eye on the ISP connection, catching issues before they escalate.
• The NID defines responsibility, so ISP issues stop at the NID, and internal ones are your own.

These compact devices simplify ISP connections, keeping your network stable and reducing service interruptions.

Data center or server room considerations

When your business network relies on a server or data center, cooling, organization, and security are important. Here’s what to look out for:

Cooling and ventilation:

• Plan airflow paths carefully to keep hot air moving out of the room fast.
• Aim for a steady temperature in the 68- to 72-degree Fahrenheit range for stability.
• Maintain humidity between 40-60% to prevent corrosion and static electricity.

Rack organization:

• Use structured racks to keep cables and devices organized and reduce clutter.
• Label everything so you can identify each device and cable easily.
• Leave room for expansion to avoid reorganization when adding new devices.

Security measures:

• Restrict access to the server room with access cards, keypads, or biometric locks.
• Install cameras for real-time monitoring and footage review if needed.
• Secure racks with locks to prevent unauthorized physical access to critical devices.

Each of these steps helps keep your data center organized, secure, and efficient for future upgrades.

Backup power supply

Without a solid backup, you risk lost work, disrupted services, and damaged equipment. A strong backup power supply keeps systems steady, helping protect work and maintain productivity, even when the unexpected hits.

When the lights go out, the UPS steps in

A UPS provides quick backup when power cuts out. It won’t last long, but it keeps systems running for a few minutes, letting you save data or switch to a generator. The short buffer keeps work moving, protecting both equipment and team progress.

Backup generators keep you going

Generators take over when outages last longer than a UPS can handle. They’re an investment, but for businesses where downtime isn’t an option, they’re invaluable. With a generator, you’re prepared for extended outages and can keep essential systems running. You can still serve clients, handle orders, and keep operations moving, rain or shine.

Power management units are the guardians of safe distribution

Power management units (PMUs) quietly protect your equipment. They monitor and balance power, ensuring each device gets what it needs without risk. Acting as silent defenders, PMUs prevent sudden surges that could damage sensitive gear. With a PMU, your backup power setup stays reliable, keeping equipment and data safe even when the grid has issues.

Challenges in setting up a business Wi-Fi network

Setting up a business Wi-Fi network has its challenges, each one capable of creating connectivity issues. A business network needs to cover every area, grow as needed, and keep data safe from threats. Here’s a closer look at common issues and how to fix them to keep the network strong.

Interference and coverage issues

Interference and coverage gaps? They’re the Wi-Fi gremlins no one asked for! Thick walls, metal shelves, and even the trusty office microwave can disrupt signals. A site survey points out these dead zones, so APs can be set up in spots with the best reach.

Dual-band and tri-band APs handle more devices by spreading traffic across frequencies, which helps avoid crowding without necessarily extending range.

With Meter's NaaS, we handle it all: Planning, setup, and perfect placement. Say goodbye to Wi-Fi guesswork and hello to steady, strong connections.

Scalability concerns

Growth is great—until your Wi-Fi feels the squeeze. Networks often max out on users fast, and adding more devices can quickly slow things down. Adding flexibility from the start keeps everything moving. Managed switches and modular gear let you add more power without a complete do-over.

With Meter, scaling up is easy since we design networks that grow as you do—no surprise "network meltdowns" as more users join.

Security vulnerabilities

Security is a big deal for business Wi-Fi. No one wants their network to feel like an open house. Adding layers like strong encryption and firewalls keep unwanted visitors out, while VLANs (virtual lanes) separate guest traffic from internal use, adding a solid buffer.

Regular firmware updates are like giving the network a flu shot—staying ready for new “germs” (or threats). With Meter, we handle encryption, segment your network, and keep firmware current. This way, your network stays secure without extra work, and you can sleep a little easier.

Tips for optimizing your Wi-Fi network

The following tips can help improve your Wi-Fi network. Each tip is practical and aimed at creating strong, reliable connectivity across your business:

• Conduct a site survey to map the best locations for access points, reducing coverage gaps.
• Use dual-band or tri-band APs to minimize congestion and improve traffic flow in high-use areas.
• Regularly update firmware to maintain security and performance across the network.
• Place APs strategically, avoiding obstacles like metal or concrete that weaken signals.
• Use wired backhaul connections between APs to enhance stability and reduce interference.
• Configure guest networks with separate access to protect the main network from outside traffic.
• Reduce overlapping channels in high-density setups to prevent APs from interfering with each other.
• Monitor bandwidth to identify and manage slowdowns from high-traffic applications.
• Adjust AP transmit power to control coverage areas and reduce interference.

Together, these tips address common business Wi-Fi complications and will help you build a network that is reliable, secure, and ready for growth.

Meter’s NaaS provides the best Wi-Fi solutions for your business

Meter’s NaaS offers the best Wi-Fi solutions for business by handling every aspect of network setup and management, letting IT teams focus on other tasks. With Meter, businesses don’t have to worry about choosing, installing, or maintaining complex hardware. Our network design, combined with real-time monitoring and automated diagnostics, offers a stress-free experience that keeps your Wi-Fi fast and secure.

Some key features of Meter’s NaaS include:

• Custom network solutions: Meter’s network designs fit your unique business layout, ensuring optimal coverage and performance for your specific needs.
• High-performance access points: Our access points deliver reliable connectivity throughout your workspace, allowing devices to connect seamlessly without interruption.
• Enterprise-grade switches: Meter’s switches efficiently manage data flow between devices, ensuring that your network operates smoothly and effectively.
• DNS security: We provide DNS security that shields your network from harmful sites and phishing attempts, adding an extra layer of defense.
• Real-time insights: The Meter dashboard offers real-time monitoring and control, giving you valuable insights into your network's performance.

With Meter, businesses can access the best Wi-Fi solutions for business, allowing them to focus on growth. Get started today with a free demo and see how Meter can transform your network experience.