WiFi has become an essential component of both modern business environments and personal spaces, underpinning operations, communications, and daily activities. Its presence makes it easy to overlook, reducing it to a utility as dull as electricity or water—yet, when it fails, its critical importance swiftly comes into focus.
In a saturated market, choosing a WiFi vendor is complicated by the array of options, each shrouded in marketing buzzwords and sleek dashboards. This leaves consumers facing the challenge of determining genuine quality and suitability from mere aesthetic appeal, making the selection process not just about connectivity, but about ensuring the seamless and reliable integration of technology into our lives.
The Abundance of Choice in WiFi Solutions
When it comes to picking a WiFi solution, having so many options can actually make things harder. Imagine walking into a store wanting to buy a simple thing like cereal, but finding hundreds of types instead. Suddenly, what should be an easy choice feels overwhelming. That's what happens with WiFi solutions. There are so many vendors and products shouting for attention with their flashy ads and promises of the best performance that it's tough to know what's really best for you.
The key here is to look past all those fancy marketing materials and focus on what really matters. You need reliable WiFi, that won't give you headaches with constant problems, and comes with good support when you need help. It also has to fit what you specifically need, whether that's covering a large area without losing signal, handling lots of devices at once, or just giving you a fast connection for streaming or gaming. Remember, the best choice isn't always the one with the most bells and whistles; it's the one that does exactly what you need it to do.
Before You Choose A New WiFi Vendor: Carry Out a WiFi Survey!
Before diving into the sea of WiFi vendors, it's crucial to take a step back and start with a WiFi survey. Think of it like mapping out the terrain before setting up camp. A WiFi survey helps you understand the unique needs and hurdles of your environment. This could mean figuring out where the signal weak spots are in a large office, or how many devices will be connecting at home.
Doing a WiFi survey is like having a blueprint. It shows you what you need right now and what you might need as things change or grow. With this blueprint, you can make a smarter choice when picking a WiFi vendor because you'll know exactly what you're looking for. It's not just about getting the fastest speed or the latest model. It's about finding a solution that fits your space, your needs, and your future plans. This step sets the stage for a decision that's informed, thoughtful, and tailored to you.
Top Tips for Choosing a WiFi Vendor
When choosing a WiFi vendor, it’s like picking a teammate for a long journey—you need reliability, support, and a good fit for your needs. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
Reliability and Performance: First things first, you want WiFi that won’t let you down. Look for vendors with a track record of products that perform well, even in the thick of real-life demands. Whether it’s a busy office, a large home, or a crowded event, your WiFi should keep you connected without a hitch.
Support and Service: Imagine hitting a snag with your WiFi at a critical moment. You’ll want quick and effective help to get back on track. That’s why strong customer support and technical service are golden. They can drastically cut down on stress and downtime, keeping you and your WiFi running smoothly.
Ecosystem Compatibility: Your WiFi doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s part of a larger tech ecosystem at your home or office. Make sure the WiFi solutions you’re considering play well with the devices and systems you already use. Seamless integration can save you from a lot of headaches down the line.
Cost vs. Value: Spending wisely doesn’t always mean going for the cheapest option. Evaluate what you’re getting for your money, considering both upfront costs and the long-term value. A more expensive option might offer better durability, easier scalability, or lower maintenance costs, making it a smarter investment in the long run.
Security Features: In an era where cyber threats are ever-evolving, robust security features are a must. Ensure the vendor you choose offers strong protection measures to safeguard your network against potential attacks. This peace of mind is invaluable.
User Reviews and Case Studies: Don’t just take the vendor’s word for it. Look around for what others are saying. User reviews and case studies can provide real-world insights into how the vendor supports their clients and how their products hold up under pressure. These stories from the trenches can be incredibly revealing.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll be better equipped to choose a WiFi vendor that not only meets your needs today but also supports your growth and changes in the future.
Walking, Talking Red Flags
When selecting a WiFi vendor, it's wise to tread carefully and keep an eye out for red flags that might suggest a vendor isn't the right fit for you. There are general cautionary tales that can help guide your decision-making process, and these stories often revolve around issues such as poor customer support, unreliable product performance, or inadequate security measures.
Vendors with a history of products that frequently disconnect or fail to deliver the promised speeds should be avoided for professional deployments. Such reliability issues can disrupt your daily operations and lead to frustration. Similarly, vendors with lackluster customer support can leave you stranded when you most need assistance, turning minor hiccups into major obstacles.
Security is another critical area. With cyber threats constantly evolving, a vendor that fails to offer robust security features or timely updates can expose your network to unnecessary risks. You should also keep an eye out for patterns in user feedback, independent reviews, and industry analyses that might indicate systemic problems with a vendor's offerings.
Due diligence is key to choosing the right WiFi vendor for your organisation, so researching and understanding the common pitfalls associated with certain vendors can save you from future headaches. Choosing a WiFi vendor is a significant decision that impacts not just your immediate connectivity needs but also your long-term security and operational efficiency, so opting for a vendor known for reliability, strong support, and proactive security measures can help ensure a smooth and secure WiFi experience.
Our Top WiFi Vendors
As WiFi Specialists since 2007, we've spent a long time building relationships with a whole host of networking vendors and partners. While this is by no means an exhaustive list, there's a few vendors that we typically recommend to organisations looking to roll out new WiFi deployments or upgrades. So then, in no particular order, here's some of the top names in WiFi you may want to consider:
Finding the perfect WiFi solution is a bit like choosing the right pair of shoes—it all comes down to fit. What serves one organisation brilliantly might fall short for another. The diversity in operational scales, spatial layouts, and specific tech requirements means there's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to selecting a WiFi vendor.
It's important to recognise that the ideal choice is heavily influenced by the unique needs and circumstances of your environment. Factors such as the size of the area that needs coverage, the number and type of devices connecting, and specific application requirements (like high-speed data transfer for video conferencing) play critical roles in determining the best fit.
Given the complexity and the stakes involved, seeking out personalised guidance can make all the difference. Partnering with WiFi Specialists or consultants (like us!) who have the expertise and experience to navigate the myriad options can be a game-changer. These professionals can offer tailored advice that takes into account your current situation as well as future growth, helping you to make an informed decision that aligns with both your immediate needs and long-term objectives.
In essence, while the quest for the ideal WiFi vendor might seem daunting, remembering that the best choice is unique to your situation and seeking expert advice can pave the way to a solution that truly fits your needs. This approach not only optimises your current operations but also positions you for future success and scalability.
Best Practices For Maintaining Your Microsoft Software Licences
Software licence management is essential for businesses to ensure legal compliance, optimise software budgets, and avoid unnecessary expenditures. However, it's also one of the dullest of activities anyone can take part in.
Proper management, though, allows organisations to understand their software entitlements and usage, preventing over-licencing, underutilisation or inflated renewal costs. It also safeguards against legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance with licensing agreements, highlighting the importance of a structured approach to maintaining software licences.
Maintaining Microsoft software licences, in particular, demands attention to their unique licensing models and product use rights. These licences often encompass a wide range of products, from operating systems to cloud services, each with specific terms that can impact compliance and financial planning.
Effective management of your Microsoft software licences not only ensures compliance with Microsoft's terms but also enables organisations to leverage their software investments fully, aligning them with business needs and technological advancements. Understanding and adapting to Microsoft's licensing updates is key to maintaining an efficient and compliant software environment.
The Challenges of managing Microsoft Software Licences
Microsoft offers a wide array of products and services, each accompanied by its own set of licencing terms and conditions, which can vary significantly depending on the product, usage scenario, and type of business. Understanding these nuances is essential for managing Microsoft licenses effectively, but it can also present several challenges.
Variety of Licencing Models
Microsoft employs various licencing models tailored to different products and customer needs. These include:
Retail Licences: Often used for small-scale purchases, retail licenses are straightforward but can be costly for large deployments.
Volume Licencing: Designed for organisations requiring numerous licences, offering potential cost savings but with more complex terms.
Subscription Services: Such as Microsoft 365, which provide access to a suite of products for a recurring fee, adding flexibility but requiring ongoing management to ensure alignment with changing needs.
OEM Licences: Pre-installed on new hardware, these are tied to the device and cannot be transferred, limiting flexibility.
Product Use Rights and Software Assurance
Each Microsoft software licence comes with specific product use rights, detailing how the software can be used, installed, and accessed. These rights can vary widely between products and licencing models, adding layers of complexity to compliance efforts.
Microsoft's Software Assurance program offers benefits such as version upgrades, training, and support, but leveraging these benefits while adhering to the terms requires careful management.
Licensing for Cloud and Hybrid Environments
The shift towards cloud and hybrid environments introduces additional complexity, particularly with products like Azure and Microsoft 365. Licences for cloud services often involve user-based subscription models, which differ significantly from traditional device-based licencing.
Managing these subscriptions requires a clear understanding of user needs and active usage monitoring to avoid over-provisioning or non-compliance.
Geographic and Organisational Considerations
Microsoft's licencing terms can also vary by geographic location, adding another layer of complexity for multinational organisations.
Educational institutions, non-profits, and government entities are often eligible for special licencing terms, which, while potentially beneficial, require thorough understanding and management to ensure compliance and optimisation.
Defining and Implementing a Comprehensive Management Policy
Planning and implementing a comprehensive management policy is a cornerstone of Microsoft licence management, serving as a blueprint for navigating the complexities of software licensing.
This policy should include all aspects of licence acquisition, deployment, usage, and compliance, tailored to Microsoft's distinctive licensing frameworks and product use rights.
The development of such a policy necessitates a thorough understanding of Microsoft's licensing agreements, ensuring that the policy is both robust and adaptable to accommodate changes in licensing terms and business requirements.
Importance of Informing Management and Employees
A critical aspect of a comprehensive management policy is the effective communication of its contents to all stakeholders within your business, especially management and employees.
Ensuring that everyone is informed about the licensing policies and their implications on daily operations is paramount. This fosters a culture of compliance and collective responsibility, where each member understands their role in upholding licensing agreements and optimising software usage.
Regular training sessions, updates, and easily accessible resources can facilitate this understanding, embedding licensing awareness into the organisational fabric.
Centralise and Document Licence Information
Effectively managing Microsoft software licences requires centralising and meticulously documenting all licence-related information. This involves establishing a centralised repository where details of all Microsoft licences—such as agreements, purchase records, and proofs of ownership—are securely stored and systematically organised.
Such a repository ensures that licence information is readily accessible, enabling efficient management, compliance checks, and strategic planning. It also simplifies the process of conducting audits, tracking software deployments, and managing renewals. The centralisation of licence data is instrumental in providing a transparent overview of your organisation's software assets, thereby streamlining licence management and mitigating compliance risks.
By adhering to these foundational elements—defining a comprehensive management policy, informing all relevant parties, and centralising licence documentation—organisations can establish a robust framework for managing Microsoft software licences. This framework not only ensures compliance with Microsoft's licensing terms but also empowers organisations to fully leverage their software investments in alignment with their business objectives and technological advancements.
Organising Licence Information in a Centralised System
The structuring of licence information within a centralised system is effective in all licence management. This system acts as the nucleus for all licensing data, ensuring that information is not only consolidated but also organised in a manner that supports easy access and management.
Establishing such a system involves categorising licences by type, usage, expiration dates, and associated products, thereby creating a structured repository that reflects the full spectrum of your organisation's software assets. This centralised approach enhances visibility across the software estate, enabling more strategic decision-making and facilitating compliance with Microsoft's licensing terms.
Maintaining Proof of Ownership and Filing Agreements Securely
Integral to the centralised system is the rigorous maintenance of proof of ownership and the secure filing of licensing agreements. This entails keeping comprehensive records of purchase orders, licence certificates, and contractual agreements, safeguarded within the central repository.
Ensuring that these documents are securely stored yet readily accessible is essential for validating the legality of software use, especially in the event of an audit. Implementing robust data protection measures and access controls can safeguard this sensitive information from unauthorised access, mitigating the risk of data breaches and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
Conduct Regular Inventories and Audits
Conducting regular inventories and audits is a critical practice in the ongoing management of Microsoft software licences. This process involves systematically reviewing and cataloguing the software deployed across your business, ensuring that the centralised system's data remains accurate and up-to-date.
Regular inventories enable the identification of unused or underutilised licences, providing opportunities for cost-saving through re-allocation or discontinuation of unnecessary licences. Audits, on the other hand, serve as a compliance checkpoint, verifying that software use aligns with licensing agreements and identifying any areas of non-compliance.
By embedding the practice of regular inventories and audits into operational routines, organisations can maintain a compliant and optimised software environment, ready to adapt to changing business needs and technological advancements.
Cataloguing Software and Conducting Regular Updates
The practice of cataloguing software within an organisation is a critical step towards efficient licence management, particularly for Microsoft products that are central to business operations. This process entails a thorough inventory of all software assets, capturing details such as version numbers, installation sites, and usage statistics.
Regular updates to this catalogue are essential to ensure its accuracy over time, reflecting new software acquisitions, updates, upgrades, or decommissions. This approach to cataloguing ensures that your business has a real-time view of its software landscape, which is crucial for compliance, budgeting, and strategic planning.
Removing Obsolete Applications to Optimise Resources
An integral part of managing an up-to-date software catalogue is the identification and removal of obsolete applications. These may include software that is no longer used, outdated versions that have been superseded by more recent releases, or products that no longer meet the business's operational requirements.
Removing such applications serves multiple purposes: it frees up valuable IT resources, such as storage and computing power; reduces the attack surface for cyber threats; and streamlines the software environment for better management. Additionally, by eliminating unnecessary licences, organisations can realise significant cost savings and redirect funds towards more critical IT initiatives.
Monitor and Manage Software Usage
Effective software licence management extends beyond cataloguing and updates; it also involves continuous monitoring and management of how software is utilised across the organisation. This practice is particularly pertinent for Microsoft software licences, which can vary significantly in terms of usage rights and restrictions.
By implementing monitoring tools and protocols, IT administrators can gain valuable insights into software usage patterns, identify underutilised licences, and detect non-compliance or over-provisioning scenarios. This information enables informed decision-making regarding licence reallocation, procurement, or retirement, ensuring that your business's software portfolio is both compliant and optimally aligned with its operational needs and budgetary constraints.
Tracking Usage to Identify Underused Microsoft Software Licences
Effective management of Microsoft software licences necessitates a proactive approach to tracking software usage across the organisation. This entails closely monitoring how each software product is utilised, with a keen focus on identifying licences that are underused or not used at all.
Such an assessment can uncover opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements, as licences for underutilised software can be reallocated or discontinued. This not only ensures that your investment in Microsoft products is fully optimised but also helps in maintaining compliance with licensing agreements, avoiding the financial and legal repercussions of underutilisation or non-compliance.
Implementing Tools for Automatic Monitoring and Compliance Checks
To streamline the process of tracking software usage and ensuring licence compliance, organisations can benefit from implementing specialised tools designed for automatic monitoring and compliance checks. These tools can provide real-time insights into software deployment and usage patterns, highlighting discrepancies between licenced software and actual usage.
Automated monitoring tools are particularly valuable in large or complex IT environments, where manual tracking can be impractical or error-prone. By leveraging these technologies, organisations can maintain a continuous oversight of their software landscape, ensuring that their Microsoft software licences are utilised effectively and in accordance with the terms of service.
Microsoft Software Licence Management Platforms
Microsoft provides several platforms and tools that can help organisations manage their licences effectively. These platforms offer various features for tracking, managing, and optimising Microsoft software licences, ensuring compliance and efficient use of Microsoft's products. Some of the key platforms include:
Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC):
The VLSC is a hub for managing Microsoft Volume Licensing agreements. It allows organisations to view and manage their volume licensing agreements, download licenced products, access product keys, and manage Software Assurance benefits. It's particularly useful for organisations with volume licensing agreements, providing a centralised place to manage licences for various Microsoft products.
Microsoft 365 Admin Center:
For organisations using Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365), the Microsoft 365 Admin Center is a critical tool. It provides administrators with the ability to manage user accounts, subscriptions, and licences for Microsoft 365 services. The platform offers insights into usage patterns, allows for the assignment and reassignment of licences, and helps ensure that your IT team is optimising its subscription plans.
Azure Portal:
For services hosted on Microsoft Azure, the Azure Portal includes capabilities for managing licences related to Azure services. This includes Azure-based applications, Azure Active Directory, and other cloud services. The portal allows for detailed monitoring and management of resource usage, which is essential for optimising cloud licence allocations and expenses.
Microsoft Intune:
As part of Microsoft's Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS) suite, Microsoft Intune is a cloud-based service focused on mobile device management (MDM) and mobile application management (MAM). Intune helps ensure that devices accessing corporate resources are compliant with licensing policies and helps manage Microsoft software licences for applications deployed across mobile workforces.
System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM):
For organisations that require on-premises management, SCCM (part of Microsoft System Center) provides extensive tools for managing and deploying software. It includes capabilities for inventory and licence management, allowing organisations to track software usage across their devices, ensure compliance, and manage updates and deployments.
Each of these platforms is designed to address different aspects of licence management within the Microsoft ecosystem, from cloud services and enterprise applications to desktop software. Organisations may use one or a combination of these tools, depending on their specific licensing arrangements, the range of Microsoft products in use, and their management preferences.
Stay Updated with Compliance and Best Practices
Microsoft frequently updates its products, services, and licensing terms to reflect new technologies and market conditions. Staying informed about these changes and understanding their implications for existing licenses is essential but can be challenging, requiring dedicated resources and expertise.
Organisations must therefore ensure that their licensing policies and management practices are regularly reviewed and updated to remain in alignment with these changes. This involves not only keeping informed about updates from Microsoft but also engaging with licensing experts, participating in relevant forums, and attending industry events.
By staying informed and adaptable, organisations can navigate the complexities of software licensing with greater confidence, ensuring compliance and optimising their software investments in alignment with evolving business needs and technological advancements.
Ensuring the Use of Latest Approved Software Versions
In the dynamic realm of technology, ensuring that your organisation utilises the latest approved versions of software is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, security, and compliance. This is especially pertinent for Microsoft products, which are often central to business operations and subject to frequent updates and enhancements.
Keeping software up-to-date not only harnesses the latest functionalities and security measures but also aligns with Microsoft's licensing terms, which may mandate or incentivise the use of current versions. Organisations must implement systematic procedures for software updates, including regular checks for new releases, assessment of their impact on existing systems, and controlled rollout processes to minimise disruption to operations.
Adapting Policies to Meet Evolving Technologies and User Needs
As technology evolves and user needs change, it's imperative for organisations to ensure their software licensing policies are flexible and adaptive. This means regularly reviewing and adjusting policies to accommodate new software solutions, usage patterns, and workforce dynamics.
The shift towards remote working has necessitated more flexible software licensing arrangements, such as cloud-based services and mobile access rights.
Adapting licensing policies in response to such changes ensures that organisations can continue to leverage their Microsoft software effectively, supporting productivity and innovation while remaining compliant with licensing terms.
Embed Licence Management in Business Practices
Integrating software licence management into core business practices is essential for sustained compliance and optimisation of software investments.
This involves establishing licence management as a key responsibility within IT governance frameworks, ensuring it receives the necessary attention and resources. It also means embedding licensing considerations into the planning and execution of IT projects, procurement processes, and strategic decision-making.
By treating software licence management as an integral part of business operations, organisations can ensure a proactive approach to compliance, reduce the risk of unexpected licensing costs, and align software usage with business objectives and growth strategies.
Setting Reminders for Renewals and Maintenance
Effective management of Microsoft software licences, particularly for critical tools like Microsoft products, requires meticulous attention to renewal deadlines and maintenance schedules. Overlooking these can lead to unintended lapses in service, non-compliance with licensing terms, and potential disruptions to business operations.
To mitigate such risks, organisations should implement a systematic approach to track and manage renewal dates and maintenance windows. This involves setting up automated reminders and notifications well in advance of the deadlines, ensuring that decision-makers and IT staff have ample time to review licence agreements, assess current needs, and make informed decisions about renewals or adjustments.
By maintaining an organised schedule of renewals and maintenance activities, organisations can ensure continuous access to necessary software tools, maintain compliance with licensing terms, and optimise their software investments.
Making Software Licence Compliance Part of the Strategic Business Approach
Integrating software licence compliance into the strategic business approach is not just a legal necessity; it's a strategic asset that can drive operational efficiency, cost savings, and risk management.
This requires elevating licence management from a tactical or operational activity to a strategic consideration within your organisation's broader business planning and governance structures. By doing so, compliance becomes a key factor in strategic decisions around IT investments, procurement, and infrastructure planning.
It also ensures that licence management is aligned with your business's goals, such as digital transformation initiatives, scalability plans, and risk management frameworks. Making software licence compliance a strategic priority enables organisations to leverage their software assets more effectively, ensuring they support business objectives and deliver value while maintaining compliance with licensing requirements.
Everything You Need To Know About Network Throttling
In the world of business, a seamless internet connection is the lifeline that keeps operations humming, collaboration flowing, and customers satisfied.
Imagine a bustling Monday morning at a thriving digital marketing agency. The team is geared up for a video conference with a major client overseas. The presentation is flawless, the pitch is sharp, and the team is ready to showcase their months of hard work.
As they start the video call, the screen stutters, the audio cracks, and the video quality decreases. The smooth flow of communication hits a roadblock, and the screen displays the dreaded buffering spinner. They’ve encountered the frustrating reality of network throttling.
This isn't a one-time technical glitch. It's a glaring manifestation of network management practices like network throttling and network prioritisation. It's implemented by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or local network administrators.
While aimed at managing network congestion and ensuring fair bandwidth distribution, it can throw a wrench into the seamless operational workflow businesses strive for.
The scenario is a gateway to the broader reach of network management, a field that impacts the digital processes of businesses.
What is Network Throttling?
Network throttling, often referred to in the UK as 'bandwidth throttling', is a deliberate action taken by internet service providers (ISPs) to regulate and limit the speed or volume of data being transmitted over their networks.
This action is akin to turning down the water flow from a tap. The primary aim behind this network throttling is to prevent network congestion, ensuring that all users get a fair share of bandwidth, especially during peak times.
Throttling occurs when ISPs detect a user consuming a high volume of data, perhaps from streaming videos or downloading large files. To ensure the network doesn't get overwhelmed and other users aren't impacted, the ISP might slow down the internet speed for that particular user.
While it can be frustrating for those experiencing slower speeds, it's a method ISPs use to maintain consistent service quality across their subscriber base.
Network Throttling vs. Network Prioritisation
'Network throttling' and 'network prioritisation' are terms that often come into play in busy networks. Each represents distinct strategies ISPs use to manage data flow.
As we've seen, network throttling is the intentional slowing down or limiting of internet speeds. If a business continually downloads and uploads extra-large files, the ISP might reduce their connection speed to prevent potential lag or buffering for other users on the same network.
This action, often taken during peak usage times or with high-usage subscribers, ensures fair bandwidth distribution and can also be tied to certain subscription models.
Network prioritisation focuses on classifying various types of data traffic according to their significance within an enterprise.
Picture an office scenario where one employee is participating in a critical virtual meeting with a client, another is accessing a hefty database, and a third is streaming a training video.
Through prioritisation, the IT infrastructure ensures the client meeting receives paramount bandwidth allocation, followed by the database access, with the training video being assigned lower precedence.
In times of network congestion, the video may face slight delays, but the client meeting proceeds without a hitch.
While both techniques manage network data, their purposes differ: throttling controls speed to manage congestion or business models, whereas prioritisation elevates crucial data for an enhanced user experience. Recognising the distinction between the two empowers businesses to better understand and navigate their internet usage.
How Do You Detect Network Throttling?
When it feels like the network isn't delivering the speeds expected or necessary for seamless operations, it might be an indication of network throttling. Here's how businesses can identify if they're facing such an issue:
Consistent Slowdowns During Specific Times: If the network consistently lags during particular periods daily or weekly, it might suggest intentional throttling during peak business hours.
Discrepancy in Promised vs. Actual Speeds: Regularly conducting speed tests, especially during periods of suspected throttling, can be revealing. If the speeds are consistently below what's promised in the service agreement, throttling may be a factor.
Analysis of Network Traffic Patterns: Tools and software like network monitors can provide insights into traffic patterns. Sudden drops in speed when a particular amount of data is reached or during specific applications might indicate throttling. Most web browsers are equipped with inherent network monitoring utilities that enable users to scrutinise network interactions and determine potential throttling. Typically located within the browser's developer toolset, these utilities offer features such as network simulation. By assessing apps or websites in a simulated slower network environment, users can identify and tackle challenges associated with loading durations.
Contact the ISP Directly: Engaging with the Internet Service Provider can provide clarity. While they might not always admit to throttling, they can sometimes provide information about network congestion or maintenance, which can indirectly suggest throttling practices.
Investigate Throttling on Specific Services: Sometimes, throttling is not broad but specific to certain applications or services, such as video conferencing tools or cloud-based applications. Monitoring the performance of various applications can identify if only specific tools are being throttled.
Detecting network throttling requires a mix of regular monitoring, comparisons, and direct communication with service providers. Understanding whether throttling is impacting operations is the first step towards seeking solutions or alternatives to ensure your network is performing optimally.
How To Stop Network Throttling
There are multiple ways to prevent network throttling, but not all are created morally equal. While we would never advocate for deliberately misleading your ISP, sometimes you need short-term relief. Here are a few ways you can stop network throttling:
Switch to a More Accommodating ISP: Not all ISPs are created equal. If you find that your current provider frequently throttles or has stringent restrictions, it might be worth exploring alternatives. Seek out ISPs known for better terms, transparency, and minimal throttling practices for business purposes.
Upgrade Your Internet Package: If consistent bandwidth is critical, consider upgrading to a premium subscription or package. Higher-tier plans often come with more generous speed and data limits, reducing the likelihood of hitting thresholds that trigger throttling.
Utilise a Virtual Private Network (VPN): VPNs not only bolster online privacy but also mask internet activities. By routing traffic through private servers, VPNs can effectively cloak your data, making it more challenging for ISPs to selectively throttle based on the type of activity. This shouldn't be used as a long-term fix.
Leverage a Proxy Server: Proxy servers act as intermediaries between a user and the wider internet. By directing web traffic through a proxy, you can potentially bypass certain ISP-imposed restrictions or throttling measures. Again, we don't recommend this as a long term fix and you could be violating your ISP's terms, so please check before implementing.
The Importance of Network Prioritisation
As data flows have grown more complex and diverse, the role of network prioritisation has become increasingly vital. Here's a deeper dive into its significance and workings:
Enhancing User Experience through Traffic Prioritisation: At its core, network prioritisation is about ensuring that the most crucial data is transmitted efficiently and reliably. Whether it's a critical business video conference, a time-sensitive data transfer, or essential cloud-based operations, by prioritising specific traffic types, users can experience fewer interruptions and lag. This leads to smoother, more reliable interactions, which can be especially vital in business environments where downtime or delay can have substantial consequences.
Diverse Techniques for Network Prioritisation: The tools and methodologies employed to achieve effective prioritisation vary, but some of the most prominent include:
QoS (Quality of Service): An overarching strategy that encompasses various techniques to ensure specific data types or services receive preferential treatment.
CoS (Class of Service): Typically used in MPLS networks, CoS labels data packets to assign priority levels.
MAC Layer Ranking: By prioritising at the Media Access Control layer, this technique focuses on the physical addressing of data.
VLAN Tagging: A method that uses virtual LAN configurations to segregate and prioritise data traffic based on categorised virtual networks.
Counteracting the Impact of Throttling with Prioritisation: While throttling broadly limits data flow, network prioritisation acts as a finer tool, selecting which data should be given preference during these slowdown periods. For instance, even if an ISP is throttling traffic during peak hours, a business can employ QoS to ensure that their mission-critical applications still operate smoothly. This means that less critical tasks may slow down, but essential operations continue with minimal disruption.
Speak with your IT or network teams to understand and leverage network prioritisation within your organisation to ensure you get the most out of your online connections, even in the face of challenges like throttling.
How To Speed Up Your Internet Connection
Even outside of network throttling, various factors can affect your internet speed. To ensure optimal performance and a swift online experience, consider the following tips:
Opt for Wired Connections: While wireless connections offer convenience, they can sometimes be less stable than their wired counterparts. Ethernet cables can often provide a more consistent and faster connection, especially for tasks that demand higher bandwidth.
Implement Mesh Networks: A mesh network works by connecting all the devices in the system together with multiple paths, rather than directly routing data through one central point or hub. Each device on the mesh network acts as a router and helps to pass data along until it reaches its destination.
Regularly Clear Cache and Cookies: Over time, the accumulation of cache and cookies can slow down your browsing speed. Regularly clearing them can help maintain brisk browsing and reduce lag.
Limit Device Connections: The more devices connected to your network, the more divided and potentially strained your bandwidth becomes. If speed is a priority, consider limiting the number of devices using the connection simultaneously.
Minimise Active Applications and Tabs: Every open tab or application can consume a portion of your bandwidth, especially if they're refreshing content in the background or accessing the internet. Close any that aren't immediately necessary to free up resources and enhance your connection speed.
By proactively implementing these strategies, you can enjoy an accelerated online experience, ensuring that your internet speed remains robust, irrespective of external throttling or other factors.
Network and WiFi Support
If your business is struggling with network or WiFi issues, why not get in touch with us today and let us provide you with the support you need to get things back on track. We've been involved in WiFi for the last 15 years and our team of experts is ready to discuss your needs today.
An Essential Guide to Cloud WiFi
Cloud WiFi has been increasingly gaining traction as many enterprises transition from traditional on-premises controllers. Before purchasing Cloud WiFi services, it’s important to consider several factors that directly affect your business.
Between all the marketing campaigns in this highly competitive market, it can be difficult to understand the technical terminology. This essential guide to cloud WiFi breaks down everything you need to know when selecting a cloud WiFi product for your business.
Why Purchase Cloud WiFi?
Cloud WiFi is greatly beneficial for geographically dispersed organisations as it allows control of the entire wireless network from a single interface. It’s easy to set up and offers great flexibility.
Things I need to know about Cloud WiFi
Exploring these considerations shall be unique to your enterprise. It’s crucial to select one that best meets your business requirements.
The Location of Cloud WiFi
Where the cloud WiFi shall be physically placed can highly affect the connectivity. Most enterprise-class WiFi hardware can handle office environments with minor physical obstructions, like cubicles and drywall, but issues may arise in larger facilities.
Additional hardware and software features are often required when operating cloud WiFi in manufacturing plants, outdoor spaces, and retail outlets.
Application and Cloud Data Storage
Another crucial factor to consider is knowing where the application and cloud data is stored. It’s ideal to select a cloud WiFi provider that offers 100% survivability, so users can continue to access locally operated applications until the connection is restored.
For critical locations where a majority of applications are served off-site, WiFi redundancy can be built in to serve as a backup mechanism, protecting against connection failure.
Features and Functionality
Some cloud WiFi services release beta features to get ahead, whilst others wait until the new features and functionalities are fully polished. The deployment shall depend on the cloud WiFi vendor’s approach.
Security
Cloud WiFi products tend to have comparable enterprise-grade hardware for client data transport, but not all APs can handle the same capacity.
Businesses with a concern regarding the radio frequency (RF) space security should consider a cloud WiFi product that offers a dedicated radio that manages the RF environment, providing always-on and real-time security monitoring.
Some services offer similar functionality with a dual-radio AP, but that radio must be taken offline to free up for RF management and security.
Visibility and Control
Administrators can use visibility and control to identify and set bandwidth maximums to avoid over usage. They also have the ability to create firewall rules that block access to undesired applications.
Some platforms have different application identification and classification features, such as identifying applications based on identifiers that don’t require looking inside each packet. This is effective, however, it compromises accuracy and flexibility when applying policies to certain applications.
Haptic Networks has over a decade of experience and knowledge delivering IT solutions to Education and Public Sector organisations. Contact us for free advice with one of our consultants on how to implement cloud-based WiFi systems!
WaaS, also known as WiFi as a service, is a subscription-based service that combines infrastructure, software, and managed services to offer fast, secure, and reliable networks. They have managed WiFi solutions and improved WiFi connectivity services without the need for in-house staff.
Pro’s of WaaS for Business
There are many advantages to having WiFi as a service for business. With having a reliable WiFi system in place, it can also help to avoid any potential problems.
Cost-Effective
Implementing WaaS is a great cost-effective solution for businesses without compromising performance and scope. With WaaS, there is no need for purchasing enterprise-grade infrastructure and software or hiring a highly specialised team to manage and maintain the systems.
These third party providers offer WiFi maintenance support, WaaS troubleshooting, and other WiFi IT solutions all at a low cost. They already come with fully staffed experts that are ready to help your business at any given time.
Save Valuable Time
Haptic Networks have 24/7 specialised support to troubleshoot WaaS without interrupting business operations. Issues are resolved easily and efficiently, thus saving a lot of valuable time.
Short Life Cycle
Wireless networks tend to have short, costly life cycles as technology is constantly changing to match industry standards. Your business can easily upgrade to the latest systems without having to reinvest in new systems with WaaS.
Security & Trustworthiness
Utilising WiFi as a service for business ensures that your network will always have the latest wireless security infrastructure to keep up with changing threats. It also ensures that you have reliable WiFi systems that are functionally efficiently all the time.
Coverage
Black spots are frequent when it comes to WiFi installations within larger buildings, but WaaS can be implemented to overcome these issues. They provide advice for business and plan out exactly where the WiFi can be installed within your building premises for optimal coverage.
If you have any other questions on how to improve your WiFi systems and the next steps to take, contact us for a free consultation with one of our experts. We offer advice, support, consultation, and even training in many aspects of technology regardless of the industry.
What WIFI Management System is Best for Your Business: On-Premises or Cloud-Based WLAN?
Businesses considering WIFI and WLAN deployment have two options to choose from, on-premises WLAN or cloud-based WLAN. Both methods possess traits that could make either one a better choice for specific businesses – depending on operational needs.
Below, we’ll be examining the pros and cons of both WLAN solutions:
The Best Budgetary Fit
When it comes to on-premises WLAN, a company is responsible for every single machination and element involved in software deployment. They are going to be on the hook for the following ongoing costs:
Power consumption
Server hardware
Space
Customisations costs
Upgrade costs
Unfortunately, this means little flexibility with expenses. Even if WIFI and WLAN aren’t abundantly consumed, businesses are still on the hook for a litany of costs.
Conversely, the cost of cloud-based WLAN adjusts along with the amount of usage, without the upkeep expenses.
Keeping Safe and Secure
In the government and banking industries, security is paramount because they are handling hyper-sensitive information.
Traditionally, on-premises WLAN has been the choice for businesses where privacy and security is a top concern, largely due to company control and customisation. However, cloud-based WIFI services are implementing the latest in wireless security infrastructure that continuously adapts to the various threats posed in today’s climate.
Server Reliability and Maintenance
On-premises systems do have the benefit of immediacy when it comes to system checks since everything is managed in-house.
However, there is somewhat of a misconception that since cloud-based services are handled by a third-party, there are extended waiting periods for maintenance and repairs. The truth is, disruptions are rare with cloud-based services and the technology is highly adaptable, leading to prompt recovery times.
How Seamless Are Updates?
When it comes to on-premises WIFI and WLAN upgrades, it’s a clunky, time-consuming process because each and every device has to be updated manually by each respective employee.
With cloud-based WIFI and WLAN, updates are implemented automatically. The process isn’t at all time-consuming and is generally hassle-free.
The Ease of Scalability
It’s difficult to effectively scale with on-premises WIFI and WLAN. Since it’s catered specifically to one business, there aren’t many integration options. Additionally, server capacity becomes an issue with the implementation of new services because they’re provided in-house.
Comparatively, cloud-based WIFI makes it easy to add or reduce the number of users, integrates seamlessly with other cloud-based offerings, and server capacity doesn’t matter because extra services are offered by the provider.
3 Ways improving your wireless network benefits you and your organisation
Understanding the significance of having an optimised wireless network is invaluable to modern day businesses; there are a number of issues and risks that can arise when your wireless network is underperforming and you could be doing your company a disservice.
Having a wireless network that is cost effective and efficient can often feel like a struggle but it really doesn’t have to be, in this blog we are highlighting 3 ways that improving your wireless network benefits you and your organisation.
Become More Secure
Adapting your wireless networks allows you to improve your security and eliminate risks associated with older networks.
Improvements can seamlessly integrate with your existing network, security and authentication infrastructures which allows for a much more organic and less disruptive update.
A more secure network allows you to spend less in the long run. There is a wealth of benefits from updating your technology, reducing your threat level from cyber crime to keeping your users safe on your network.
Reduce Your Paper Usage
Gone are the days when everything needs to be on paper, in fact there’s a wealth of reasons why paper use has declined rapidly in the last decade…
From companies being more active and aware about their environmental impact, aiming to reduce your costs, increases in printing expenses, to the introduction of more and more technologies and software that eliminate the need for paper.
One of the benefits of improving your wireless network is the ability to transfer paper based processes and tasks into digital ones; saving time, effort and of course, paper.
Stop Dead Zones
We’ve all experienced this from time to time while on a network, a dead zone or blind spot where it drops out, on top of being frustrating, this limits productivity and loses your company money. This is a common problem with older networks and is normally all but eliminated when you update your wireless system.
It is essential to make sure that there are no areas within your network that has a weak spot, and if there is one, (due to factors outside of your control such as certain building materials) have a strategy in place to counteract it.
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Here at Haptic Networks we are one of the industry leaders in improving wireless networks for a range of companies; whether it’s to help the company save money, develop their efficiency or to create a stronger competitive advantage, we work with our clients to help them reach their goals.
In our latest free ebook we have highlighted over 10 ways you can improve your operational efficiency and save money by harnessing a better wireless network, to get your copy today click the below button:
DIY Network Security Testing Checklist
In recent years businesses have been subject to exploitations of their lackluster digital security, and with technology changing and the way we work shifting, companies facing more threats than ever before.
With the frequency of hacking, cyber attacks and digital crime on the up and up, companies need to ensure they are secure from these new risks.
Needless to say, it is the case with any business that when you scale you are even more vulnerable, everytime a new user, application, device or guest is added to your network, you increase your risk.
Businesses of all shapes and sizes can be affected, so everyone needs to consider their network’s security; often this is an afterthought and the vulnerabilities can be addressed to keep this from happening at all.
Understanding the ways you are at risk is a great start to keeping your network secure, this is part of the reason we decided to create a quickfire self-help document to expose these weaknesses.
With all of the aforementioned thoughts and trends in mind, we have created the “DIY Network Security Testing Checklist” to allow you and your organisation to check your network security and to help you identify any weaknesses or potential breach points.
The importance of highlighting the areas within your organisation’s network that are vulnerable is paramount to ensuring a secure network moving forwards into the future.
This Do-It-Yourself Network Security Testing Checklist has been created to help IT professionals assess your network for any potential vulnerabilities, threats or risks.
The aim of this comprehensive list is to help you evaluate your network’s security and allows you to highlight any weak spots proactively, not reactively.
Here at Haptic Networks we have worked with countless clients across the world to ensure they have the most effective solutions tailored to their unique needs, speak to one of our expert team today!
So, it’s Friday afternoon and the relenting sunshine has already warped my brain as well as my extremely pasty complexion to the point of uselessness when, all of sudden, Joe (our MD) comes to me with a request:
“Nudge(that’s me, don’t ask….), I have a task for you to complete...”
I do love a challenge so, of course, I oblige.
“....our meeting room isn't fit for purpose digitally. When we have visitors, customers or suppliers in they/we can't really present anything to the screen. I don't want an ugly looking AV faceplate job, I don't want a Smartboard type setup either and I want to know who has that room booked that day”
At this point, Joe pre-empted my armada of questions and said “Assume authorisation and make it happen”and off he went.
So, what was I thinking? The clue is in my job description really, G Suite and Hangouts Meet Hardware (HMH) of course. We’ve been using G Suite since becoming Google partners 3 years ago and it has made many of our internal processes so much slicker than our previous office solution.
It wasn't until the middle of the next week that I finally got to pay attention to Joe’s request. Luckily, Madi (our purchasing queen) ordered all the kit with her usual speed and had it with us next day . So with all the gear and some idea I set about the task, starting with our G Suite admin and the HMH app settings. After the best part of 20 minutes, the hangouts meet app was up and running and all of our team had the appropriately named Star Wars meeting room available in their Google calendars to book out. At the same time, it had also automated the management of the room and reporting of its use to all of our admins, which made me look extra clever.
Add to this the fact that, after I’d enrolled the HMH to the domain, (which took a hefty 2 mins to do) using the device license it automatically picked up all of our device settings that we had put in place prior. Even the wireless switched itself off and pushed itself to ethernet which is best practice for HMH.
With the device and the management all sorted, it was time to sort out another problem, WIRES... argh! It’s Wednesday, I've got the TV on the wall with a single HDMI and the power cable hanging down, I've managed to cadge (yorkshire term sorry) some of our new Everblocks (think fully grown Lego blocks) to construct a plinth for the HMH which consists of an ASUS Chromebox, the Speaker Mic, the HMH touchscreen, and the rather impressive Huddly camera. With all the kit on the plinth my ‘war on wires’ began, a quick trip to the local diy supplier proved useful, returning armed with a box to house the power gang and excess wires, 2m of elasticized fabric wire wrap and 1.5m of trunking. With the war won I stood back and admired my work, Rome wasn't built in a day but our meeting room was, and its impact was instant when our CCNA consultant Chris saw it, “Nudge, I want to do some training with the team, can I use the new kit?” and so it began.
Since the addition of the HMH kit, our meeting room has been used everyday and we haven't had it double booked once thanks to the automation provided through G Suite. It’s impressed our customers, our suppliers that we have had hangouts with and, more importantly, it’s impressed Joe who can now feel all ‘Lord Sugary’ and hold Monday morning meetings over hangouts from the comfort of his conservatory.
If you would like to know more about Hangouts Meet Hardware or our services to help you take advantage of this element of G Suite you can call our team on 01536 605608 and we will gladly help you get everything you need to make more of your meeting rooms.
We used for this project....
Hangouts Meet Hardware Kit including:
Huddly USB Camera
Hangouts Meet SpeakerMic
ASUS Chromebox (CN65)
Hangouts Meet Touchscreen
Also:
55” Sony TV
Everblock Modular Building System Blocks
D-Link Cable Management Kit
Written by Darrell “Nudge” Raynard - nickname obtained as i can't pronounce Nduja...as in the sausage. I did say not to ask.
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