subject: Business Wi-fi What It Can Do For You [print this page] Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) is a great new internet solution that is available pretty much anywhere there is a broadband connection that is connected to a Wi-Fi modem. Wi-Fi basically allows multiple computers to use the available broadband connection without wires or cables. Gone are the days of having annoying data cables and the need to be chained to a desk to get super fast internet. But if your business is looking into Wi-Fi, what are things you need to be aware of when considering utilising this new technology?
Securing Your Wi-Fi
Security is absolutely essential with Wi-Fi connections. Because it can be connected to by any computer or device in the local vicinity (even ones you dont want using the connection), its important to ensure your modem allows the functionality of a password when a user tries to connect. The key is to not make it easy to guess, but not so difficult that you wont remember it. Some modems will only allow for numerical code, while others will let you choose an alphabetic password. Depending on the nature of your business will ultimately decide who you allow your Wi-Fi access to. If you are an office based business, Wi-Fi gives you the luxury of letting staff hot seat without the need for dedicated desks. Anywhere theres a spare seat and table, youve got yourself a work space!
On the other hand, if your business is in the service industry like a cafe, hotel, restaurant or even a hairdressing salon its a great idea to make Wi-Fi available to your patrons - this service is often referred to as a Wi-Fi hotspot. As Wi-Fi can also be used through mobile phones, many customers will often use the service to surf the web via their phone while sipping on a coffee or getting a haircut. But unlike normal Wi-Fi connections, to become a wireless hotspot there is specialist software that youll need to purchase to allow users to have easy access and to also manage your data usage.
Whether its providing Wi-Fi for your office so that staff can move about freely while working, or a hotspot that lets your patrons relax and surf the web, Wi-Fi is the next wave of technology that is catching on fast. Just remember, set a non-descript password so that unwanted devices cant utilise your connection and use up all of your available data!
