The latest in wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, has hit the market promising some impressive perks for small- and medium-sized businesses. It boasts super-fast speeds, solid connections even in crowded places and readiness for future technological demands.
But does your SMB need it? Let’s discuss.
First off, Wi-Fi 7 is all about speed. It’s like upgrading from a bicycle to a sports car. With Wi-Fi 7, tasks like downloading large files or streaming high-definition videos become much quicker. Say you’re a graphic design firm constantly transferring large files between team members: Faster Wi-Fi speeds could significantly improve your workflow.
Wi-Fi 7 also promises reliability. Ever had your internet connection drop during an important video call or while sending crucial emails? Wi-Fi 7 aims to put an end to that frustration. Whether you’re in a busy office or a crowded cafe, the engineers behind Wi-Fi 7 say you can expect a stable connection, which keeps your business operations running smoothly.
Finally, Wi-Fi 7 claims to be future-proof. This means it’s designed to handle upcoming advancements in technology without needing another upgrade anytime soon. This could be a good investment if you’re planning to incorporate more internet of things (IoT) devices into your business infrastructure or anticipate an increase in remote work.
OK, here’s the kicker: Is Wi-Fi 7 worth it for your small or medium-sized business?
Well, it depends.
While the benefits sound promising, they come at a cost. Upgrading to Wi-Fi 7 means investing in new routers that support the technology, which can be pricey. Plus, there might be ongoing expenses, especially if you’re leasing equipment from internet service providers.
So, before you rush to upgrade, consider whether your business truly needs the latest and greatest in Wi-Fi technology. Sure, faster speeds and better reliability sound great, but do they outweigh the expense for your specific needs?
Better yet, take a quick assessment of your SMB’s current Wi-Fi set-up because there could be more cost-effective solutions for improving your internet connection.
Here’s five questions to ask before dropping a pile of cash on Wi-Fi 7:
Is our current Wi-Fi set up strategically? Intentionally place routers and access points to improve coverage and signal strength.
Are we using Wi-Fi extenders or mesh networks? These can expand coverage areas and reduce dead zones, particularly in larger office spaces.
Have I upgraded to latest Wi-Fi standards? Enhance performance with existing routers, such as Wi-Fi 6, without a complete overhaul.
Do I perform regular maintenance? Conduct firmware updates and security enhancements to ensure optimal Wi-Fi performance.
In the end, it’s about the balance between staying competitive and managing your budget effectively. Wi-Fi 7 might be the right choice for some businesses, but there are alternative ways to enhance other businesses Wi-Fi experience without breaking the bank.
We’d love to help you find the best Wi-Fi solutions for your small- or medium-sized business—it’s what we do! Give us a call to open the conversation.