By ACT Fibernet
In our contemporary digital landscape, the significance of a robust and feature-rich broadband router cannot be overstated for efficient business operations. The days of basic routers struggling to meet the demands of video conferencing, cloud applications, and VoIP calls are long gone. India’s leap of 10 spots in the global rankings for average mobile broadband speeds, from 79 to 69 between December and January 2023, underscores the rapid deployment of 5G services.
An astounding 97% of businesses rely on the Internet for various purposes, such as communication, marketing, and sales. However, not all internet connections are created equal. It’s imperative to discern the specific speed requirements tailored to the nature of your business for true success. The diverse needs of businesses highlight the importance of understanding that an online store operating 24/7 necessitates higher speeds compared to a small office with minimal internet usage. Similarly, a business conducting frequent online conferences demands greater speed compared to one using the internet solely for basic communication.
Regardless of the business type, a fast and reliable internet connection is indispensable. The right internet speed empowers organizations to seamlessly navigate the ever-evolving demands of the digital age. To ensure your business’s smooth and secure operation, consider these 10 essential features when selecting your next broadband router:
High-Speed Wi-Fi 6/6E: Ditch the lag and enjoy blazing-fast wireless speeds with Wi-Fi 6 or even Wi-Fi 6E. These standards offer significant improvements over Wi-Fi 5, providing greater bandwidth, reduced latency, and better network efficiency, especially for bandwidth-hungry devices and multiple users.
Advanced QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritize your business-critical traffic. A good router lets you prioritize VoIP calls, video conferencing, and other essential applications over recreational browsing or downloads, ensuring seamless communication and productivity.
Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Don’t bottleneck your wired connections. Opt for a router with multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed wired connections to your desktops, servers, and other networking devices.
Mesh Wi-Fi Support: If your office space is large or has signal obstructions, consider a router with mesh Wi-Fi capabilities. This creates a single, seamless network throughout your office, eliminating dead zones and ensuring consistent Wi-Fi coverage for all employees.
Robust Security Features: Business data is sensitive. Look for a router with strong security features like WPA3 encryption, firewall protection, and intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) to safeguard your network from cyberattacks.
Guest Wi-Fi Network: Offer temporary internet access to clients or visitors with a separate guest Wi-Fi network. This isolates guest traffic from your main business network, enhancing security and protecting sensitive data.
VPN Server Functionality: Secure remote access for your employees is crucial. Choose a router with built-in VPN server functionality to allow secure remote connections to your office network from anywhere.
Parental Controls: Manage internet access for guests or employees with built-in parental controls. Block websites, limit device usage time, and filter content to ensure a safe and productive online environment.
Easy Mobile App Management: Manage your router settings and network performance conveniently from your phone or tablet. Look for a router with a user-friendly mobile app for on-the-go administration.
Future-Proof Technology: Invest in a router that supports the latest advancements in networking technology. Consider Wi-Fi 6E compatibility and support for future upgrades to ensure your network remains future-proof.
By focusing on these features, you can select a modern broadband router that empowers your business with a reliable, secure, and high-performance network, optimizing your digital workspace and driving productivity.
