Tips for upgrading WiFi hardware in a small office

Upgrading WiFi hardware in a small office can dramatically improve connectivity, speed, and reliability for your team. Here are essential tips to guide your upgrade process and maximize your network’s performance.

Assess Network Needs

Evaluate your office’s square footage and the number of connected devices before selecting hardware. Offices with multiple employees and devices typically benefit from modern routers or mesh systems designed for business use, along with proper access point placement.​

Choose the Right Hardware

• Opt for dual-band or tri-band routers to reduce network congestion.
• Consider a mesh WiFi system for seamless coverage in larger or oddly shaped spaces.
• Modern routers that support WiFi 6 (802.11ax) deliver better speeds and efficiency, especially with many simultaneous connections.​
• If coverage is uneven, supplement with wireless extenders or dedicated access points.

Placement and Installation

• Centralize the router or access point, preferably elevated and away from concrete walls or metal objects to minimize interference.​
• Avoid placing equipment inside cabinets or behind thick walls to maximize signal range.
• If possible, use Ethernet cabling for access points rather than relying solely on wireless backhaul for stability.​

Update Firmware and Drivers

• Keep router and access point firmware updated for improved security and performance.
• Update wireless adapter drivers on computers and devices for best connectivity results.​

Limit Interference and Manage Channels

• Keep hardware away from microwaves, cordless phones, and other sources of signal interference.
• Change WiFi channels in device settings if interference persists, especially in dense office buildings.
• Use the 5GHz band to avoid congestion typical in 2.4GHz environments.​

Security and Management

• Choose routers with advanced security features like WPA3 encryption.
• Segment guest and internal networks on separate SSIDs and manage permissions.​
• Regularly audit connected devices and update passwords to maintain network integrity.

Upgrading to the latest WiFi hardware and following these best practices can help your small office stay productive, secure, and ready for future technology needs.