How Long Does WiFi Installation Take?
Looking to set up a wireless internet network to supercharge your business connectivity? You’ll be pleased to hear that Installing WiFi in a business property or home office is a fairly straightforward process. But to guarantee the best possible internet connection and wireless signal, experience and knowledge are vital. Bring these to the table for a fast, and seamless WiFi network installation.
What equipment is involved in a wireless installation?
In basic terms, WiFi installation involves the assembly and configuration of WiFi equipment and software to deliver wireless internet access across your business premises. The process is similar if you’re deploying it for your home office environment too.
The physical infrastructure to establish a WiFi network within your premises often involves various pieces of equipment. The most common is a WiFi router. But some larger premises may require other devices, such as WiFi extenders to boost the signal and ensure connectivity in each zone of your building.
Depending on the size and design of your property and intended network use, the installation can be either extremely simple or complex. Large offices and challenging environments such as warehouses invariably demand the expertise of a specialist.
Although “out of the box” solutions are available, they tend to be more geared towards residential use or situations where minimal equipment is required. For serious business use, a site survey is vital to gain the best possible outcome.
How long does WiFi installation take in corporate environments?
Corporate environments vary in nature and as such, the time it takes to install wireless broadband depends on many factors. While some of these can be anticipated with experience, unforeseen circumstances may also occur that can delay installation. Below, we outline some of these factors in more detail:
Structural Work
If your business is awaiting structural work to be completed, such as FTTP (Fiber To The Premises), this can delay the installation of WiFi. In these situations, it’s essential to wait until the required work is finished before attempting installation.
Landlord Permissions
In rented business properties, landlord permission may be required. If you need to gain permission from your landlord first, or there is a delay in gaining permission, this will inevitably stall the WiFi installation process.
Physical Design of Building
Another aspect to consider is the physical design of your building. The materials, size, and external environment may hinder installation. It may be that extra pieces of equipment need to be sourced to ensure a stable and speedy connection.
WiFi Boosters Required
Some businesses require the use of one or more WiFi extenders. These help to boost the signal around a property and ensure there are no “black” spots. The setup of these, while relatively simple, can increase the installation time.
Internet Outages
Any internet outages caused by nearby utility works or your telecoms company, will have a direct impact on the WiFi installation time. Although these projects are usually planned and announced well in advance, internet outages can occur at any moment.
What is the WiFi installation process?
The basic process to install WiFi in corporate environments, hospitality settings, homes, venues, and other industries is one and the same. But the size and scope of what needs to be achieved can vary considerably. A customized approach is recommended regardless of the task at hand. Below, we outline the basic steps:
Install the Equipment
The first stage involves plugging the WiFi router into a nearby power socket and connecting this to your internet connection (usually a modem). There will be a port on the rear of the router labeled “WAN” or “Internet”. Plug an ethernet cable into this port and connect it to the modem. You may need to turn your router and modem off and on again.
Connect to the WiFi Router
Once the equipment is connected, use a laptop or desktop computer to connect to the router directly using an ethernet cable. This is done by connecting to one of the “LAN” ports on the back of the router. Use the router’s default IP address or the supplied software to log in and locate the configuration control panel.
Set up a New WiFi Network
Once inside the router’s control panel, follow the instructions to set up a new WiFi network. You will need to provide a suitable name that you can recognize in the future. Any name you choose will be publicly visible to anyone who scans for nearby networks. In most cases, this will be a company name that workers and visitors can recognize.
Secure the Network
When setting up a new wireless network, it is important to establish a secure password. The WPA2-PSK (AES) protocol is the most secure to date. Opt for the most secure password possible using a series of letters, numbers, and special characters. Specialists can install other security measures across your network, such as a firewall, for mission-critical enterprise settings.
Test the Connection
The final step involves checking the connection. It is worth testing the wireless signal by using a range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Check the signal in different areas of your building — even in outdoor areas. If the connection is laggy in some areas, you may need WiFi extenders to boost the signal.
How long does it take for wireless to work following installation?
After installing all the required equipment and testing to ensure the signal functions as intended throughout the entire property, WiFi is ready for use almost immediately. In smaller buildings and homes, the testing process is generally simple. Larger corporate environments may require greater testing before widespread rollout.
Arrange your WiFi installation
Are you keen to get fast and secure WiFi installed in your company or home? The best way to get started is to arrange a consultation with a specialist. Choosing a company that will conduct a full site survey beforehand will help to identify any potential stumbling blocks that could occur during installation. Contact The Network Installers today for a detailed consultation, survey, and quote.
